Maynooth University Social Sciences Institute, in collaboration with the Maynooth University Research Development Office, is hosting the eleventh Research for Policy Seminar Series. Running from September through November 2025, this series explores the intersection of academic research and public policy.
Led by Professor Mark Boyle, Dr. John O'Connor, and Seán Ó Foghlú, the seminars offer a unique opportunity for academics, researchers, and policy-makers to reflect on their shared work, challenges, and achievements.
All seminars will be delivered in a hybrid format to allow for both in-person and online participation.
Thursday, 11 September – 11:00 to 12:15
A follow-up to the April seminar on the 1995 White Paper on Education.
Speaker: Dr. Don Thornhill, who led the work as Secretary General of the Department of Education at the time.
Wednesday, 15 October – 11:00 to 12:15
Speakers: Professor Brian Ó Gallachóir, Associate Vice-President of Sustainability at University College Cork and Director of MaREI, and Ian Hughes, Research Officer at the Department of Education and Youth (formerly seconded to MaREI), will reflect on the link between research and climate policy.
Thursday, 20 November – 11:00 to 12:15
Speakers: Dr. Nicola Mountford (School of Business, Maynooth University), Dr. Avril Kennan (CEO, Health Research Charities Ireland), and Dr. Anne Cody (Head of Investigator-Led Grants, HRB) will discuss strengthening the public and patient voice in health research funding decisions, building on a New Foundations project.
An additional seminar is expected in early December. Details will follow once confirmed.
