Discover the Best Visiting Scholar & Research Fellowship Opportunities in Ireland! 🇮🇪✨

Are you searching for international research experience in one of Europe’s most dynamic and welcoming countries? Ireland, renowned for its world-class universities, vibrant culture, and innovation-driven research sector, is the ideal destination for ambitious scholars, postdoctoral researchers, and industry professionals.

From the historic halls of Trinity College Dublin to the technology-focused campuses of TU Dublin and the ground-breaking research centers of University College Cork, Ireland offers a wealth of opportunities to advance your academic career and collaborate with global leaders in science, engineering, medicine, business, and the humanities.

Why Choose Ireland for Your Visiting Scholar Journey?

• 🌍 Home to top-ranked universities and research institutes recognized worldwide
• 🔬 Innovative research in fields like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, biomedical sciences, business, and social policy
• 🤝 Strong connections to leading industries, tech companies, and international networks
• 💸 Generous funding, travel grants, and accommodation support for international fellows
• 🏞️ Experience Ireland’s rich history, friendly communities, and stunning natural beauty

Whether you’re interested in short-term fellowships or long-term research stays, this comprehensive guide covers all major Irish universities and institutes, providing details on eligibility, funding, application processes, and research focus areas. You’ll find direct links, key deadlines, and expert tips for making your application stand out.

Start Your Irish Research Adventure!

Unlock your potential, expand your global network, and make a lasting impact—explore Ireland’s top Visiting Scholar and Research Fellowship programs below and take the next step toward your academic future!

1. Trinity College Dublin (TCD) Visiting Research Fellowships

Overview

Trinity College Dublin (TCD), founded in 1592, is Ireland’s top-ranked university and among the world’s leading research institutions. It is particularly renowned for humanities, science, engineering, and medicine.

The Trinity College Visiting Research Fellowships attract international scholars, postdoctoral researchers, and industry professionals to collaborate with Trinity’s research centers and academic departments.

TCD is home to the Trinity Long Room Hub for Arts & Humanities, the Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, and ADAPT, Ireland’s Global Centre for AI-Driven Content Technologies.

Research Focus Areas

AI, Machine Learning & Robotics

Medical & Biomedical Sciences

Sustainable Energy & Climate Change

History, Philosophy, & Humanities Research

Nanotechnology & Engineering Innovation

Law, Business, & Global Policy

Funding & Benefits

Travel Grant: Up to €3,500 for international airfare and visa costs.

Accommodation Assistance: Monthly stipend to cover housing expenses in Dublin.

Research Grant: Partial funding for conference travel, lab access, and publication costs.

Access to Trinity’s Advanced Research Facilities.

Networking with Industry Leaders & Government Agencies.

Eligibility Criteria

Must hold a PhD or equivalent research experience.

Affiliation with a university, research institute, or corporate R&D division.

Research must align with Trinity’s global research priorities.

Invitation or collaboration agreement with a Trinity College faculty member.

Duration & Commitment

Short-term Fellowships: 3-6 months.

Long-term Fellowships: 6-12 months.

Scholars are expected to contribute to faculty seminars, publish research, and engage in collaborative projects.

Application Process

Applications open twice a year, with deadlines in March and September. Required documents:

Detailed Research Proposal (1,500-2,000 words).

Academic CV & List of Publications.

Letter of Invitation from a Trinity College faculty sponsor.

Statement of Intent explaining research objectives and impact.

Applications should be submitted via Trinity College Dublin’s Research Office Portal.

Why Choose Trinity College Dublin?

Ireland’s highest-ranked university and globally recognized research institution.

World-class libraries and cutting-edge research centers.

Located in Dublin, Europe’s top hub for tech, finance, and culture.

Strong collaborations with industry giants like Google, Microsoft, and Intel.

Conclusion

The Trinity College Visiting Research Fellowships provide an outstanding opportunity for scholars to collaborate on high-impact research, gain international exposure, and contribute to cutting-edge innovation.

🔗 Trinity College Dublin Visiting Scholars Program

2. University College Dublin (UCD) Visiting Research Fellowships

Overview

University College Dublin (UCD) is Ireland’s largest and most internationally connected university, ranking among the top 1% of universities worldwide. It has a strong research focus in science, business, engineering, social sciences, and humanities.

The UCD Visiting Research Fellowships program invites international scholars, postdoctoral researchers, and industry professionals to collaborate with UCD’s research centers, institutes, and academic schools.

UCD is home to leading research facilities, including:

• The Insight Centre for Data Analytics
• The UCD Energy Institute
• The Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research

Research Focus Areas

• Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
• Renewable Energy & Sustainability
• Public Policy & International Affairs
• Biomedical & Pharmaceutical Research
• Engineering & Advanced Materials
• Cultural & Literary Studies

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Grant: Up to €3,000 for airfare and visa costs.
• Accommodation Support: Monthly stipend for housing in Dublin.
• Research Grant: Covers lab access, fieldwork, and conference participation.
• Networking & Industry Partnerships: Collaboration with Google, Facebook, Pfizer, and government agencies.
• Opportunities to Publish & Present Research.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must hold a PhD or equivalent research experience.
• Affiliation with a university, research institute, or corporate R&D division.
• Research must align with UCD’s academic priorities.
• Invitation or collaboration agreement with a UCD faculty member.

Duration & Commitment

• Short-term Fellowships: 3-6 months.
• Long-term Fellowships: 6-12 months.
• Scholars are expected to deliver guest lectures, participate in faculty seminars, and publish research.

Application Process

Applications are accepted twice a year (March and October). Required documents:

1. Research Proposal (1,500 words).
2. Academic CV & Publications List.
3. Letter of Invitation from a UCD faculty sponsor.

Applications should be submitted via UCD’s Research Office Portal.

Why Choose University College Dublin?

• Ireland’s most research-intensive university.
• Global network with partnerships across Europe, the U.S., and Asia.
• Located in Dublin, Ireland’s economic and technology hub.
• Strong corporate and governmental research collaborations.

Conclusion

The UCD Visiting Research Fellowships offer scholars the chance to work on high-impact projects, gain international visibility, and engage with world-class research communities.

🔗 UCD Visiting Scholars Program

3. National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG) Visiting Research Fellowships

Overview

The National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG) is a leading research university in Ireland, known for its expertise in biomedical sciences, human rights, marine research, and digital innovation. Located in the heart of the Atlantic Innovation Corridor, NUIG has a strong focus on industry-academic collaboration, working closely with multinational companies, research institutes, and the government.

The NUIG Visiting Research Fellowships program invites international scholars, postdoctoral researchers, and industry professionals to collaborate with NUIG research centers such as:

• The Insight Centre for Data Analytics
• The Centre for Disability Law and Policy
• The Ryan Institute for Environmental Research
• The CÚRAM Medical Device Research Centre

Research Focus Areas

• Artificial Intelligence & Smart Technology
• Medical Device Innovation & Biomedical Engineering
• Marine & Environmental Research
• Sustainable Energy & Climate Change
• Human Rights & Social Policy
• Irish Language & Cultural Studies

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Grant: Up to €2,500 for airfare and visa costs.
• Accommodation Support: Monthly stipend for housing in Galway.
• Research Grant: Covers lab access, conference participation, and publishing fees.
• Access to NUIG’s Research Facilities & Libraries.
• Networking with Ireland’s top research hubs and industry partners.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD or equivalent research experience.
• Research must align with NUIG’s global research priorities.
• Faculty sponsorship required.
• Scholars from all disciplines are encouraged to apply.

Duration & Commitment

• Short-term Fellowships: 3-6 months.
• Long-term Fellowships: 6-12 months.
• Expected to publish research, contribute to faculty projects, and engage in industry partnerships.

Application Process

Applications are accepted year-round, with priority deadlines in April and September. Required documents:

1. Research Proposal (1,500-2,000 words).
2. CV & Publications List.
3. Letter of Invitation from an NUIG faculty member.

🔗 NUIG Visiting Scholars Program

4. University College Cork (UCC) Visiting Fellowships

Overview

University College Cork (UCC) is one of Ireland’s top universities, particularly recognized for its contributions to food science, sustainability, AI, business, and cultural studies. UCC is Ireland’s first university to receive the Green Flag for sustainability, and its research programs align with climate resilience, digital innovation, and social equity.

The UCC Visiting Fellowships program invites international researchers, PhD holders, and industry professionals to collaborate with UCC’s globally ranked research centers, including:

• The Environmental Research Institute
• The Tyndall National Institute for Nanotechnology
• The Cork University Business School
• The School of Irish Learning

Research Focus Areas

• Food Science & AgriTech
• Renewable Energy & Climate Policy
• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
• Cultural Heritage & Irish Language Studies
• Digital Health & Biomedical Engineering
• Business & International Trade

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Grant: Up to €3,000 for airfare and visa processing.
• Housing Support: Monthly stipend for accommodation in Cork.
• Research Grant: Covers publication costs, fieldwork expenses, and conference participation.
• Access to UCC’s Research Facilities & Industry Partnerships.
• Networking with EU-funded research consortia.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD or equivalent professional research experience.
• Research must be aligned with UCC’s priority research themes.
• Scholars must secure an invitation from a UCC faculty member.

Duration & Commitment

• Short-term Fellowships: 3-6 months.
• Long-term Fellowships: 6-12 months.
• Expected to publish research and mentor PhD students.

Application Process

Applications are reviewed twice a year, with deadlines in March and October. Required documents:

1. Research Proposal (1,500 words).
2. CV & List of Publications.
3. Letter of Invitation from a UCC faculty member.

🔗 UCC Visiting Research Program

5. Dublin City University (DCU) Visiting Research Fellowships

Overview

Dublin City University (DCU) is one of Ireland’s most modern and research-intensive universities, known for technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, and social sciences. It has strong research partnerships with Google, Microsoft, and Enterprise Ireland.

The DCU Visiting Research Fellowships invite international scholars, postdoctoral researchers, and industry professionals to collaborate with DCU’s leading research centers, including:

• The INSIGHT Centre for Data Analytics
• The National Anti-Bullying Research Centre
• The ADAPT Centre for AI and Digital Content
• The DCU Business School Research Unit

Research Focus Areas

• Artificial Intelligence & Cybersecurity
• Business, Entrepreneurship & Innovation
• Sustainability & Renewable Energy
• Public Policy & Social Justice
• Health Sciences & Biomedical Technology

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Grant: Up to €2,500.
• Living Allowance: Monthly stipend.
• Access to DCU’s Innovation Labs & Research Hubs.
• Industry Collaborations & EU Research Grants.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD or equivalent experience.
• Must have a faculty sponsor.
• Strong research alignment with DCU’s key priorities.

Duration & Commitment

• Short-term: 3-6 months.
• Long-term: 6-12 months.

Application Process

Applications accepted March & September.

🔗 DCU Research Visiting Fellowships

6. University of Limerick (UL) Visiting Research Scholarships

Overview

University of Limerick (UL) is known for its engineering, sports science, and health research. It has partnerships with Johnson & Johnson, Analog Devices, and Ireland’s Shannon Free Zone.

The UL Visiting Research Scholarships program supports international scholars and industry professionals in collaborative research projects.

Research Focus Areas

• Biomedical Engineering & Health Innovation
• Robotics & AI
• Sports Science & Human Performance
• Business & International Finance
• Sustainable Manufacturing & Green Technology

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Support: Up to €3,000.
• Housing Assistance.
• Access to UL Research Facilities & Industry Labs.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD or significant industry expertise.
• Research must align with UL’s strategic priorities.

Duration & Commitment

• 3-12 months.

Application Process

Apply April & October.

🔗 UL Visiting Researchers

7. Maynooth University (MU) Visiting Research Fellowships

Overview

Maynooth University (MU) is one of Ireland’s fastest-growing research institutions, known for its strengths in data science, humanities, social policy, and environmental sustainability. It has a strong focus on interdisciplinary research, with key centers such as:

• The National Centre for Geocomputation (NCG)
• The Social Sciences Institute
• The Hamilton Institute for Applied Mathematics & AI
• The Irish Climate Analysis & Research Unit (ICARUS)

The Maynooth Visiting Research Fellowship program is designed for international scholars, postdoctoral researchers, and professionals to collaborate on innovative projects and contribute to Maynooth’s world-class research.

Research Focus Areas

• Climate Change & Sustainability
• Artificial Intelligence & Data Science
• Public Policy & Social Justice
• Humanities & Irish Cultural Studies
• Mathematical Sciences & Computational Modelling

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Allowance: Up to €2,500 for international flights.
• Accommodation Stipend: Housing support for visiting scholars.
• Research Funding: Covers publication costs, conference fees, and fieldwork expenses.
• Networking Opportunities: Access to EU research networks, industry collaborations, and policy-makers.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must hold a PhD or equivalent research expertise.
• Research must align with Maynooth’s priority research themes.
• Must have a faculty sponsor at Maynooth University.

Duration & Commitment

• Short-term Fellowships: 3-6 months.
• Long-term Fellowships: 6-12 months.
• Scholars are expected to publish research and contribute to public lectures or workshops.

Application Process

Applications are accepted twice a year in March and September. Required documents:

1. Research Proposal (1,500-2,000 words).
2. Academic CV & List of Publications.
3. Letter of Invitation from a Maynooth faculty member.

🔗 Maynooth University Visiting Fellowships

8. Technological University Dublin (TUD) Visiting Scholars Program

Overview

Technological University Dublin (TUD) is Ireland’s largest technology-focused university, specializing in engineering, digital innovation, design, and applied sciences. With campuses in Dublin City, Tallaght, and Blanchardstown, TUD has strong industry ties with Google, Intel, and IBM.

The TUD Visiting Scholars Program welcomes international researchers, industry professionals, and PhD-level scholars to engage in collaborative research, innovation, and digital transformation projects.

Research Focus Areas

• Smart Cities & Urban Planning
• Cybersecurity & Digital Infrastructure
• Creative Arts, Gaming & Digital Media
• Biomedical Engineering & Health Tech
• Renewable Energy & Smart Grid Technology

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Grant: Up to €3,000 for flights.
• Accommodation Stipend.
• Industry Collaboration with global tech companies.
• Access to High-Tech Research Labs & Digital Studios.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD or equivalent expertise in technology, engineering, or design.
• Must have a faculty or industry partner sponsor at TUD.

Duration & Commitment

• 3-12 months.
• Scholars are expected to deliver guest lectures and collaborate on projects.

Application Process

Applications are accepted April & October.

🔗 TUD Visiting Researchers

9. Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) Research Fellowships

Overview

RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences is Ireland’s leading medical and healthcare research university, with cutting-edge research in biomedical sciences, surgery, neuroscience, and global health.

The RCSI Research Fellowships program supports international medical researchers, surgeons, and health professionals in collaborative projects with RCSI-affiliated hospitals and labs.

Research Focus Areas

• Precision Medicine & Genomics
• Neuroscience & Mental Health
• Surgical Technology & AI-Assisted Healthcare
• Cancer Research & Regenerative Medicine
• Global Health & Pandemic Preparedness

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Grant: Up to €3,500.
• Living Allowance.
• Access to RCSI’s Research Labs & Clinical Trial Centers.
• Collaboration with Hospitals & Medical Tech Firms.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD or MD in medicine, public health, or biomedical sciences.
• Research must align with RCSI’s medical priorities.

Duration & Commitment

• 6-12 months.

Application Process

Applications accepted March & September.

🔗 RCSI Research Fellowships

10. Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) Visiting Research Fellowships

Overview

Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) is a leading technology-focused university in Ireland, specializing in engineering, business, life sciences, and sustainable energy. The DkIT Visiting Research Fellowship program invites international scholars, postdoctoral researchers, and industry professionals to collaborate on applied research projects with DkIT’s research centers, including:

• The Regulated Software Research Centre (RSRC)
• The DkIT Centre for Freshwater & Environmental Research
• The DkIT Netwell Centre for Ageing & Health

Research Focus Areas

• Cybersecurity & Software Systems
• Biomedical Engineering & Medical Devices
• Sustainable Energy & Climate Solutions
• Health & Ageing Studies
• Business & Digital Transformation

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Grant: Up to €2,500 for international scholars.
• Accommodation Support: Housing stipend for visiting fellows.
• Research Allowance: Covers lab access, fieldwork, and publication costs.
• Industry Collaborations: Partnership opportunities with tech and medical device companies.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD or equivalent research expertise.
• Affiliation with a university, research institute, or corporate R&D division.
• Research must align with DkIT’s research priorities.
• Invitation or collaboration agreement with a DkIT faculty member.

Duration & Commitment

• Short-term Fellowships: 3-6 months.
• Long-term Fellowships: 6-12 months.
• Scholars are expected to publish research, engage with students, and contribute to industry projects.

Application Process

Applications are accepted twice a year, with deadlines in April and October. Required documents:

1. Research Proposal (1,500-2,000 words).
2. CV & Publications List.
3. Letter of Invitation from a DkIT faculty member.

🔗 DkIT Visiting Research Fellowships

11. Munster Technological University (MTU) Visiting Research Grants

Overview

Munster Technological University (MTU) was formed from the merger of Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) and Institute of Technology Tralee (ITT). It specializes in engineering, digital transformation, marine research, and business innovation.

The MTU Visiting Research Grants support international scholars collaborating on high-impact research in partnership with Ireland’s top industries and innovation hubs.

Research Focus Areas

• Maritime & Marine Technology
• Renewable Energy & Smart Grids
• Biomedical Engineering & Healthcare Innovation
• Cybersecurity & Data Analytics
• Entrepreneurship & Business Development

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Grant: Up to €3,000.
• Housing & Research Support.
• Access to Advanced Research Facilities.
• Industry Collaborations with global companies.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD or significant industry experience.
• Research must align with MTU’s strategic priorities.

Duration & Commitment

• 3-12 months.

Application Process

Apply April & October.

🔗 MTU Visiting Fellows

12. Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Visiting Research Fellowships

Overview

Atlantic Technological University (ATU) is one of Ireland’s newest technological universities, formed from the merger of multiple regional institutes. It has campuses across Galway, Mayo, Donegal, and Sligo, with a focus on sustainability, digital transformation, and applied sciences.

The ATU Visiting Research Fellowships program supports international researchers, postdoctoral scholars, and industry professionals in collaborative projects with ATU research centers such as:

• The Marine and Freshwater Research Centre
• The Centre for Sustainable Energy Research
• The Artificial Intelligence & Data Science Hub

Research Focus Areas

• Marine Science & Aquaculture
• Renewable Energy & Climate Change
• Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
• Creative Arts & Digital Media
• Health & Wellbeing Technologies

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Allowance: Up to €2,500 for flights.
• Accommodation Support: Housing stipend.
• Research Grant: Covers publication fees, lab access, and conference participation.
• Access to ATU Research Labs & Industry Networks.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD or significant industry experience.
• Must have an ATU faculty sponsor.

Duration & Commitment

• 3-12 months.
• Scholars expected to publish research and mentor students.

Application Process

Applications open March & September.

🔗 ATU Visiting Scholars Program

13. South East Technological University (SETU) Visiting Research Fellowships

Overview

South East Technological University (SETU), established from a merger of Waterford and Carlow Institutes of Technology, specializes in engineering, business, and environmental sustainability.

The SETU Visiting Research Fellowships support international scholars working on applied research in renewable energy, healthcare innovation, and AI-driven business analytics.

Research Focus Areas

• Engineering & Smart Manufacturing
• Healthcare & Digital Health Technologies
• Sustainable Business Practices
• AI & Machine Learning in Business

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Support: Up to €3,000.
• Housing Assistance.
• Access to SETU’s Research Institutes.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD or significant industry expertise.
• Research must align with SETU’s key priorities.

Duration & Commitment

• 3-12 months.

Application Process

Apply April & October.

🔗 SETU Research Fellowships

4. Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) Visiting Scholar Grants

Overview

Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT), now part of South East Technological University (SETU), is one of Ireland’s leading applied research institutions, specializing in technology, business innovation, and engineering.

The WIT Visiting Scholar Grants provide international researchers with opportunities to collaborate on applied research projects in fields such as renewable energy, AI, cybersecurity, and business analytics.

Research Focus Areas

• Artificial Intelligence & Cybersecurity
• Engineering & Smart Manufacturing
• Business & Financial Analytics
• Renewable Energy & Climate Technology
• Creative Digital Media & Interactive Technologies

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Grant: Up to €3,000.
• Housing Allowance: Monthly stipend for accommodation in Waterford.
• Industry Collaboration: Research opportunities with Enterprise Ireland and global corporations.
• Access to Research Labs: WIT’s Applied Materials and Manufacturing Centre, TSSG Research Centre, and ArcLabs Innovation Hub.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD or relevant industry expertise.
• Research must align with WIT’s research priorities.
• Must secure an invitation from a WIT faculty member.

Duration & Commitment

• 3-12 months.
• Scholars expected to engage in workshops, publish research, and collaborate with industry.

Application Process

Applications accepted April & October.

🔗 WIT Research Fellowships

15. Institute of Technology Carlow (IT Carlow) Visiting Academic Grants

Overview

Institute of Technology Carlow (IT Carlow), now part of SETU, is a research-driven institution with expertise in engineering, biosciences, computing, and business innovation.

The IT Carlow Visiting Academic Grants support international scholars in collaborative research and industry engagement.

Research Focus Areas

• Biotechnology & Environmental Science
• Aeronautical Engineering & Space Research
• Information Technology & Digital Innovation
• Entrepreneurship & Start-Up Acceleration

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Reimbursement: Up to €2,500.
• Living Stipend.
• Access to Research Centres: The Applied Biosciences Research Centre, GameCORE Lab, and Aerospace Research Hub.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD or professional experience in engineering, biotech, or computing.
• Must have a faculty sponsor at IT Carlow.

Duration & Commitment

• 3-12 months.

Application Process

Applications open March & September.

🔗 IT Carlow Visiting Scholars

16. Shannon College of Hotel Management Visiting Fellowships

Overview

Affiliated with NUI Galway, Shannon College of Hotel Management is Ireland’s top hospitality school, focusing on tourism, business, and culinary innovation.

The Shannon Visiting Fellowships program provides international researchers and hospitality experts with an opportunity to collaborate on hospitality business models, tourism development, and food technology research.

Research Focus Areas

• Sustainable Tourism & Hospitality Business
• Culinary Science & Food Innovation
• Luxury Hotel Management & Branding
• Digital Marketing & E-Commerce in Hospitality

Funding & Benefits

• Travel Support: Up to €2,000.
• Accommodation Assistance.
• Industry & Government Partnerships.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD or significant industry experience in hospitality, tourism, or food sciences.

Duration & Commitment

• 3-12 months.

🔗 Shannon College Research