New research centre for NUI Maynooth

Construction work has begun on the new €15 million Interdisciplinary Research Building at NUI Maynooth. The state-of-the-art building, to be completed in 2010, will house 350 students and 200 academic staff and researchers, including three of the University’s world renowned research institutes: NCG (National Centre for Geocomputation), NIRSA (National Institute for Research and Spatial Analysis) and An Foras Feasa, the Institute for Research in Irish Historical and Cultural Traditions. The 4,500sqm facility will also include a 350 seat lecture theatre and a spacious social area equipped with WiFi for student use.

Located on the University’s North Campus, alongside the John Hume Building, the building is designed to complement the existing buildings on the North campus. The building’s glass exterior and contemporary look will reflect the world class research activity happening within it.

NUI Maynooth President, Prof. John Hughes, said: 'This is the first step in our ten year vision for the development of the campus at NUI Maynooth, and to position Maynooth as Ireland’s University Town. As well as providing important inter-disciplinary research space, we took the decision to increase the size of this building to incorporate important additional facilities for students and academic departments, to be funded from our own resources. We are also moving ahead with other projects, including the new library extension announced by the Minister last December which is now at Design Phase, and additional student accommodation here on our campus. These advancements, along with other planned developments, will provide a tangible reflection of the innovative research and teaching carried out at NUI Maynooth, and will also enhance the social experience for students and staff.'

It is estimated that the new research centre will be fully operational by June 2010.

Click here for more information about postgraduate courses and research in NUI Maynooth.