University of Galway Professor appointed to Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland board

Professor Rebecca Braun, Executive Dean of the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies at University of Galway, has been appointed to the inaugural board of Taighde Éireann - Research Ireland.

The appointment was confirmed by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Patrick O'Donovan T.D., with Professor Braun to serve a four year-term.

Taighde Éireann - Research Ireland is Ireland's new competitive research and innovation funding agency and was formally established on August 1, 2024.

The new agency amalgamates the activities and functions of the Irish Research Council and Science Foundation Ireland and is central to realising the ambitions of Impact 2030: Ireland's Research and Innovation Strategy.

Announcing the establishment of the agency, Minister O'Donovan said:"This new agency will be a vital support in building the successful future of research and innovation in Ireland, engaging national challenges like the green and digital transitions, and boosting our international standing as research innovators in emerging fields and opportunities ahead."

Speaking of the opportunity to support research enhancement in Ireland, Professor Braun said:"Quite simply: excellent, innovative ideas are at the core of Higher Education's mission, and facilitating the best way for them to thrive will ensure the health of everything else. It's a huge honour to be asked to help shape the direction and operations of this new agency."

Professor Rebecca Braun joined University of Galway to take up the position of Executive Dean in 2021. A recognised international leader in her core disciplines of Modern Languages and Literary Studies, Professor Braun has gained extensive experience assessing the strategic development and delivery of national research and innovation systems, having served as an interdisciplinary research advisor to both the UK Research Excellence Framework and Germany's 'Universities of Excellence' national funding schemes.

Professor Braun has also provided over 100 expert peer reviews to publishers and other academic bodies around the world. With a commitment to both conceptual and applied research and a strong track record in collaborating with partners across multiple sectors, she has consistently prioritised providing mentorship and other forms of practical support to help further the careers of researchers at all stages and disciplinary backgrounds.

University of Galway President Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh said:"I am delighted that Professor Braun will be contributing to the leadership of Ireland's investment in research at this important juncture. This appointment further enhances University of Galway's contribution to the public good through an inclusive investment in research which recognises and supports excellence and impact wherever it resides. I wish Professor Braun every success in this role."

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