SETU launches strategic vision for research, innovation and impact
SETU officially launched its new Research, Innovation and Impact (RII) Strategy outlining a bold and collaborative vision for research that delivers real-world benefits for the region, Ireland, and beyond. Held at the University’s Carlow campus, the launch brought together members of the SETU research community and key stakeholders from enterprise, government, and the wider innovation ecosystem.
Speaking at the event, Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, highlighted the strategy as a critical step in SETU’s development as a technological university: “This strategy defines how we will shape and support research that matters - research that is impactful, engaged, and responsive to the needs of society and enterprise.” Professor Marie Claire Van Hout, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Impact, presented an overview of the strategy and its four capacity-building priorities:
- Strengthening and diversifying research, innovation, and knowledge transfer;
- People, research culture, and environment;
- Growth of a vibrant, diverse, and ambitious postgraduate research community;
- and Engaged, inclusive, and impactful research and knowledge transfer in the region and beyond.
“This is a strategy for our researchers, our partners, and our region. It sets out the support structures and ambitions that will enable SETU to lead in delivering research with real impact,” said Prof. Van Hout.
Guest speakers included Christian Stafford, Senior Development Advisor at Enterprise Ireland; Tim Conlon, Head of Policy and Strategic Planning at the Higher Education Authority (HEA); Dr Saoirse Cummins, Engaged Research Officer at SETU; and Gemma Purcell, representing the SETU Xcelerate Centre. Each highlighted the value of collaborative research in addressing national and regional challenges and fostering innovation-led growth. The event also featured exhibitions from SETU’s technology gateways and Xcelerate centres, giving attendees the opportunity to engage directly with SETU’s enterprise-facing research infrastructure and explore opportunities for collaboration.
The RII Strategy builds on SETU’s strong track record in research and innovation, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive, interdisciplinary, and regionally embedded research that aligns with national priorities and European best practice.
