Connecting Innovation Ecosystems: Ireland and Kendall Square

​Over the past six years, Ireland has significantly strengthened its research and innovation ecosystem through sustained public investment, the establishment of Research Ireland, and the development of a new generation of national research centres. To showcase these developments and strengthen Ireland's longstanding ties with Massachusetts, Minister James Lawless T.D., Research Ireland CEO Dr Diarmuid O'Brien and a delegation of leading researchers from Ireland's life sciences and quantum sectors will undertake a research mission to Boston.

​This breakfast event will take place at the MIT Museum, a setting that reflects the transformative power of research, creativity and technological innovation.

​Nobel prize laureate, Dr Philip Sharp will deliver an address on the evolution of Kendall Square as a global biotech hub.

​Following the address, a panel discussion will explore the factors that have shaped Kendall Square and the wider Massachusetts innovation ecosystem, the role of international collaboration in driving research translation and economic impact, and opportunities to deepen connections between Ireland and Massachusetts. Featuring perspectives from Ireland's research community, MIT and venture capital leaders, the discussion will consider how thriving innovation ecosystems are built, sustained and connected across borders.

​The event will provide an opportunity to connect with Ireland's research leadership and senior researchers, hear about the transformative investments being made across Ireland's research ecosystem, and explore new opportunities for collaboration and partnership.