Researchers, policymakers and industry partners gathered at University College Dublin for the UCD College of Social Sciences and Law Research and Engagement Day, showcasing the breadth of research taking place across the College and exploring how it connects with real-world challenges.
The event was opened by Professor Niamh Moore-Cherry, Principal of the UCD College of Social Sciences and Law, alongside Associate Professor Sam Brazys, Vice Principal for Research, Impact and Engagement at the College, and Dr Rachel Iredale, Head of Public Engagement at Research Ireland.
A keynote panel followed, explored the theme “Why great research reaches (and fails to reach) policymakers.” Moderated by Associate Professor Stefan Müller of the UCD School of Politics and International Relations, the discussion brought together perspectives from government, academia and industry.
Panellists included Richard Bruton, Chairperson of Social Enterprise Republic of Ireland and former Government Minister; Cathy Madden, Head of Climate Programmes at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment; Ciarán Conlon, Director of Public Policy at Microsoft Ireland; and Professor Michelle Norris, Director of the Geary Institute for Public Policy at UCD. The panel examined how research can more effectively inform policy and decision-making, and the challenges involved in translating academic insight into practical outcomes.
Ciarán Conlon (Microsoft Ireland), Prof Niamh Moore-Cherry (CoSSL Principal), Prof Michelle Norris (Geary Institute), Assoc Prof Stefan Müller (SPIRe), Cathy Madden (Dept of ET&E), Richard Bruton (Social Enterprise Republic of Ireland)
Following the keynote panel, participants took part in parallel breakout sessions organised around the College’s newly launched research themes. These sessions included interdisciplinary roundtable discussions, research showcase presentations and Partnership Den pitches from researchers across the College, highlighting work that engages with major societal issues and demonstrating how research connects with policy, communities and industry.
Reflecting on the day, Professor Niamh Moore-Cherry emphasised:
“The Research and Engagement Day was a wonderful opportunity for the College to welcome policymakers, industry leaders and partners from across a range of sectors to engage with our research community. It was a privilege to showcase the breadth and quality of research taking place across the College and to see such strong interest in how this work can inform policy, industry and contribute to positive societal change. Events like this help create the connections and conversations that lead to meaningful collaboration and greater impact.”
Associate Professor Sam Brazys highlighted the strong engagement from across the College’s research community by saying:
“We were really pleased to see the great turnout with scholars from all 11 College Schools across all five of our research themes and external partners from a number of government, policy and business entities. The day had great enthusiasm and a number of new partnerships were forged and connections made. We look forward to continuing to build on these partnerships and communicating the excellent research from the College to the UCD community and beyond.”
By bringing together researchers and partners from across policy, government, industry and civil society, the Research and Engagement Day underscored the College’s commitment to ensuring that research in the social sciences and law contributes to meaningful dialogue, informed decision-making and positive societal impact.