Geoscience Ireland (GI) is delighted to welcome the Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre in Applied Geoscience (iCRAG) as a member.

iCRAG is the Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre in Applied Geosciences. It is made up of a team of 150 researchers from 8 universities across Ireland, hosted by University College Dublin. iCRAG researchers are working together to create solutions for a sustainable society. They conduct research in areas that are critical to society and the economy, including
• Sustainable discovery of energy resources and raw materials required for decarbonisation.
• Securing and protecting groundwater and marine resources.
• Protecting society from Earth’s hazards such as flooding and landslides.

iCRAG and GI have collaborated in promoting Ireland as a centre of excellence in geosciences at international conferences.
An essential element in the formation of successful technological clusters such as Geoscience Ireland is a strong linkage between the cluster members and research and innovation at third level.

Commenting on the development, GI Director Sean Finlay said;

“GI and its member companies have been involved as industry partners with iCRAG since its inception in 2015. The closer relationship with iCRAG will enhance and strengthen the relationship, providing opportunities for collaboration on climate adaption, renewable energy, infrastructure development and sourcing of critical minerals. I also look forward to continued collaboration with iCRAG in promoting Ireland’s geoscience sector at international conferences, conventions and trade fairs.”

Welcoming the development, iCRAG’s Director Dr. Murray Hitzman commented;

“iCRAG is delighted to be strategically aligned with Geoscience Ireland and to support its transition to a stand-alone business cluster. By retaining its close links with Geological Survey Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, and the Department of Foreign Affairs, GI is fostering an essential “Team Ireland” approach that includes industry, government, and third-level entities.”

1 March 2022
ENDS