National review of State supports for PhD researchers announced by Minister Harris

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris has today announced a national review of State supports for PhD researchers.

The scope of the Review will include:

current PhD researcher supports including financial supports (stipends, SUSI supports and others)
the adequacy, consistency and equity of current arrangements across research funders and higher education institutions, including equity and welfare considerations
the status of PhD researchers (student, employee) including a review of international comparators and models
impact on the funding of research programmes of any adjustments to current supports
graduate outcomes for PhD graduates including return on investment/benefits to the researcher
visa requirements and duration for non-EU students

Speaking today, Minister Harris said:

“I am pleased to announce a national review of the supports for PhD researchers. I have met with these researchers over the past year who have made it clear there are a range of issues facing them. Some of these are financial but there are broader issues too.

“The overarching objective of Impact 2030, Ireland’s National Strategy for Research and Innovation which was published in May 2022, is to maximise the impact of research and innovation (R&I) on our economy, society. We have committed to investing in talent, and ensuring that there are appropriate supports for researchers.

“This requires comprehensive and considerate consideration. This review will hear from the frontline. Its first step will be to engage with relevant stakeholders including PhD researchers, host institutions, research funders, employers and relevant government departments such as Health, Agriculture, Food and Marine, and Justice.

“We want Ireland to be a leader in talent. In order to do that, we have to ensure that our brightest talent here in Ireland can pursue their research ambitions in a supportive environment. I look forward to receiving the report’s recommendations in early 2023.”

The Review will commence in November 2022.

A robust evidence base will inform the review.

It will be completed in early 2023.