Ireland Poised to Join CERN in 2026, Boosting Scientific and Economic Opportunities
| time.news
Dublin – Ireland is on the cusp of joining the prestigious European Institution for Nuclear Research (CERN) as an associate member in 2026, following the in-principle acceptance of its request. This landmark progress promises to unlock important scientific and economic opportunities for the nation.
Minister for Further and Higher education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless, currently visiting CERN with a delegation of education, research, and industry representatives, confirmed the progress. I am delighted to say that ireland’s application is at an advanced stage and we are hoping to join in early 2026,
he stated.
Associate membership will grant Irish researchers access to CERN’s cutting-edge scientific programs, including the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), a 27km underground ring where protons are accelerated and collided to explore the fundamental building blocks of the universe.Irish citizens will also become eligible for staff positions and fellowships, further enriching the nation’s scientific talent pool.
It is exciting to think of the Irish students, researchers and entrepreneurs who will have opportunities to contribute to this work,Mr.Lawless added.
Beyond scientific collaboration, CERN membership will open doors for Irish businesses to compete in lucrative procurement programs. This engagement with a world-leading scientific organization is expected to drive innovation and technological advancement across various sectors.
The estimated cost of associate membership is approximately €1.9 million annually for an initial five-year period. Subject to funding and Dáil approval, the accession process is anticipated to conclude in 2026, marking a new era for Irish science and technology.
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Harris underscored the broader economic implications of this move. Our membership will pave the way for greater investment in Irish science, driving forward discovery and technological advancement,
he affirmed.
prof. Linda Brown, Director of the Irish Research Council, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the potential benefits for the wider society. Through Ireland’s membership we can unlock the vast potential benefits of major global scientific initiatives of this scale including enhancing our research and development ecosystem, advancing our scientific and technological knowledge base and bringing benefits to our students, industry, and wider society,
she explained.Investing in participation gives us a seat at a vrey valuable table,
she concluded.
Ireland initially applied for associate membership in November 2023, setting in motion a process that promises to elevate the nation’s standing in the global scientific community.
Ireland Joins CERN: A Scientific and Economic Game-Changer? Expert Insights
Time.news: Ireland is poised to join CERN as an associate member in 2026. This is generating a lot of buzz. Dr. Eleanor Vance, a leading particle physicist, joins us today to unpack what this means for Ireland. Dr. Vance, welcome!
Dr. Eleanor Vance: Thank you for having me. It’s an exciting time for Irish science!
Time.news: Absolutely. The article mentions “scientific and economic opportunities.” Let’s start with the science. How notable is access to CERN for Irish researchers? What kind of research will they now be able to engage in?
Dr. Eleanor Vance: Access to CERN, especially the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), is a game-changer. It’s like going from using a magnifying glass to using the Hubble telescope. Irish researchers will gain access to unparalleled experimental facilities and data.They can collaborate on cutting-edge research into basic physics: understanding the building blocks of matter, exploring dark matter and dark energy, and searching for new particles and forces.This isn’t just theoretical; it fuels innovation across many STEM fields. The potential for scientific breakthroughs and discoveries is immense. Getting access to programs that CERN facilitate, such as the Large Hadron Collider is a huge step for Ireland.
Time.news: The Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, used the phrase “enriching the nation’s scientific talent pool.” Can you elaborate on how CERN membership achieves that beyond researcher access?
Dr. Eleanor Vance: It’s about exposure and chance. CERN offers staff positions and fellowships, attracting and retaining top Irish talent. Irish students will gain opportunities to participate in research projects,summer schools,and workshops at CERN. This creates a pipeline of skilled scientists and engineers who can then contribute to Irish research institutions and industries. Imagine the impact of having a generation of Irish scientists trained at the world’s leading particle physics laboratory!
Time.news: The article also highlights economic benefits, particularly related to procurement. How does this work, and what sectors stand to gain?
Dr. Eleanor Vance: CERN is a massive operation, requiring complex technologies and equipment. Associate membership allows Irish businesses to bid on contracts for providing these goods and services.Think about high-tech manufacturing, precision engineering, advanced computing, and specialized materials. These are all areas where Irish companies have the potential to compete on a global stage. Essentially, it creates a market for Irish innovation.
Time.news: the annual cost is estimated at €1.9 million for five years. Is this a worthwhile investment for Ireland? What could readers say to a sceptical friend to convince them of CERN’s benefits?
Dr. Eleanor Vance: Absolutely worthwhile! €1.9 Million is a small price to pay for the wealth of innovation Irish researchers, students and entrepreneurs can contribute to. The money spent through membership will be paid forward through collaboration and the expansion and innovation of our science sector.
Time.news: Professor Linda Brown from the Irish Research Council mentioned “enhancing our research and progress ecosystem.” How does CERN membership contribute to a stronger R&D ecosystem within Ireland?
Dr. Eleanor Vance: it does so in several ways. Firstly, it elevates the profile of Irish science, attracting more international collaborations and investment. Secondly, it pushes Irish research institutions to meet world-class standards in terms of infrastructure and expertise. Thirdly, it fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration between academia and industry. it provides a powerful incentive for young people to pursue careers in STEM fields. Ireland joining CERN is a very valuable investment and a huge opportunity for Irish researchers.
Time.news: any practical advice for Irish students, researchers, or businesses looking to capitalize on this new opportunity? Where should they start?
Dr. Eleanor Vance: For students and researchers: keep an eye on CERN’s website for open positions, summer programs, and collaboration opportunities. Contact your professors and research institutions to inquire about potential CERN-related projects. Network with Irish scientists who are already working with CERN.
For businesses: start researching CERN’s procurement processes and identify areas where your expertise aligns with their needs.Attend industry events and workshops related to CERN. Contact Enterprise Ireland for support and guidance. The key is to be proactive and prepared. This is such an exciting time for everyone involved.
Time.news: Dr.Vance, thank you so much for sharing your insights with us. This has been incredibly informative.
Dr. Eleanor Vance: My pleasure! It’s a privilege to discuss this exciting development for Ireland.