On 25 April 2023, Dr Patrick Bresnihan in the Department of Geography at Maynooth University became one of 40 new members as the first cohort of the new Young Academy Ireland – (YAI), a network of early career researchers and innovators (ECRIs). Supported by The Royal Irish Academy (RIA), the YAI has been established to promote greater engagement and opportunities for ECRIs, including supporting ECRIs in leadership roles, contributing to equality, diversity and inclusion, and developing networks and skills. In addition, Young Academy members are encouraged to utilise their expertise and potential to tackle important issues and challenges in society and promote meaningful change.
Dr Bresnihan (pictured below in the back centre) is one of forty members from Ireland and Northern Ireland selected after a competitive recruitment process launched by the Royal Irish Academy last year. The successful candidates include researchers, academics, scientists, innovators, clinicians, economists, and professionals who have each made a significant contribution to their field and beyond their individual disciplines. The YAI will reach out to the wider research community and draw on the RIA’s unique ability to convene and nurture interdisciplinary platforms, giving a credible voice on issues that matter and being responsive to the needs and interests of ECRIs.
