Ulster University has won £20m of European funding through the EU’s INTERREG VA programme, which will see the University lead three major UK and cross-border research projects.
The funding, awarded through the European Union’s INTERREG VA Programme, which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), will enable Ulster University to advance its research in personalised medicine, renewable energy and connected health technology. Partners include other UK and RoI institutions and companies with existing global expertise in each sector.
Ulster University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paddy Nixon said: “These are strategically important research areas within which Ulster University is already renowned for its world class research. Winning this €23 million of INTERREG funding now further underpins our capability. It sends a strong message to the wider research community about our ability to deliver positive impact through research and highlights Ulster University’s broader ambition to transform lives and make a lasting contribution to global societies and communities.
“The funding will facilitate some of the most exciting and advanced research in personalised medicine currently being undertaken globally; research that will improve patient care and outcomes, develop patient monitoring technology that will improve heart disease care by enhancing sensor technology options and, boost collaboration and accelerate the commercialisation of advanced renewable technology solutions.
“The wider economic impact of this research funding cannot be underestimated. In addition to the €23 million of funding, the multiplier effect will generate a further secondary output impact of over €29 million in the UK, with approximately €19 million of this being in Northern Ireland.
“The funding will also support the creation of 24 PhD researcher posts across the three projects, enriching both the local economy in terms of salary contribution and the wider Northern Ireland research environment.”
The Special EU Programmes Body is a North/South Implementation Body sponsored by the Department of Finance in Northern Ireland and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in Ireland.
It is responsible for managing two EU Structural Funds Programmes, PEACE IV and INTERREG VA which are designed to enhance cross-border co-operation, promote reconciliation and create a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Programmes operate within a clearly defined area including Northern Ireland, the Border Region of Ireland and in the case of INTERREG VA, Western Scotland.
The INTERREG VA Programme has a value of €283 million and aims to address the economic and social problems which result from the existence of borders.