In this edition of the IUA Bulletin we’re bringing you exciting updates on our latest projects, including our productive meeting with the New Global Citizens 2030 Talent & Innovation Attachés. Plus, we spotlight key events such as the Irish Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions webinar promoting the 2025 Postdoctoral Fellowship call.
IUA Welcomes Two New Global Citizens 2030 Talent & Innovation Attachés

The IUA met with Ireland’s two newly appointed Global Citizens 2030 Talent & Innovation Attachés. These two appointments, the first of six due over the coming months, by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS), mark a significant step in strengthening Ireland’s global engagement in higher education, research, and innovation.
Lillian Gisselquist will be based at the Consulate General of Ireland in Boston.
Daniel Kearns will take up his role in San Francisco, where he will support Ireland’s engagement along the U.S. West Coast.
Their role entails:
- Acting as key liaisons for DFHERIS within the Consulates, supporting Ireland’s higher education and innovation agenda in the U.S.
- Building and strengthening networks with universities, industry leaders, research institutions, and philanthropic partners in Ireland and the U.S.
- Enhancing Ireland’s engagement in strategic fairs and conferences in collaboration with Research Ireland, IDA Ireland, and Enterprise Ireland.
- Identifying and facilitating research collaboration opportunities and ensuring follow-up with relevant Irish entities.
- Monitoring and reporting on key policy developments in education, research, and innovation across their respective regions.
- Contributing as integral members of ‘Team Ireland’ to drive deeper cooperation in education, research, and innovation.
The IUA looks forward to working closely with Lillian and Daniel as they take up these important roles, at a critical time for strengthening Ireland’s global academic and research footprint in the U.S.
IUA Insights - What we do and why it matters

In February we launched IUA Insights – a series of articles highlighting our key services and projects, written by the experts behind them!
From behind-the-scenes insights to real-world impact, this series will showcase what we do, why it matters, and how it benefits others. First up, Daniel McFarlane, Access Manager at the IUA, shares insights on the redevelopment of the HEAR scheme, ensuring it reflects the modern landscape of disadvantage in Ireland – and his role in making it happen.
A Recent Event:
MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships 2025 Call Promotional Event

This webinar, held on March 26th, provided an overview of the 2025 MSCA call, eligibility criteria, and key features, with insights from past successful applicants. The session was open to researchers applying with an Ireland-based institution, as well as supervisors and research support staff from academic and non-academic organisations in Ireland.
In other news…
Hosting Agreement Scheme: Companies are using this Fast Track to Hire Top Non-EU/EEA Researchers
More and more companies are tapping into Ireland’s Hosting Agreement Scheme to hire top-tier non-EU/EEA researchers. According to recent data from EURAXESS Ireland, the number of accredited businesses using this fast-track migration option has surged with 25 new companies signing up in the past three years.
READ MORE AND SEE WHAT COMPANIES HAVE SIGNED UP…
Investing in Skills: Unlocking the Full Potential of Employees
Micro-credentials offer a game-changing solution: short, flexible, skill-focused courses that deliver practical, immediately applicable knowledge.
Whether it’s sustainability, digital transformation, or leadership, these targeted courses help SMEs bridge skill gaps.
A recent article by David Corscadden, MicroCreds Communications Manager highlights the Benefits of Lifelong Learning for SMEs.