By David Barrett, Deputy Editor
SEAN Sherlock TD, the Minister for Research and Innovation has recently announced the creation of a new PhD program aimed at preparing science graduates for employment in Ireland’s still growing knowledge economy. The program is a joint venture between Trinity College, UCD, UCC and NUIG and aims to turn patient and disease focused research into clinically effective and commercial applications.
The project has the support of a €4.3 million grant under Cycle 5 of the Government’s programme for Research in Third-Level Institutions and backers from industry include Amgen, Pfizer, Creganna-Tacx, Merrion Pharmaceuticals and the Irish Medicines Board. ‘‘‘I am delighted to see tangible evidence of how Ireland’s higher education sector, in developing this type of programme, is delivering for our enterprise needs,’’ said Minister Sherlock.