Twenty-six (26) early-stage doctoral researchers from across Europe arrive at UL this week for the launch of the Engaged Research Design for Sustainability programme.
This innovative initiative, that combines a residential and online component, aims to equip participants with the tools and knowledge to tackle global sustainability challenges through a mission-based approach, apply the UN SDGs to their own research and local contexts, and explore regenerative futures.
Researchers from institutions in Germany, Finland, Cyprus, Norway, Slovakia, Italy, the Netherlands as well as University of Limerick, will engage in an immersive week of workshops, expert-led discussions, and site visits in the city and region. The diverse group includes researchers exploring topics such as renewable energy systems, inclusive education, e-waste management, biodiversity, and responsible innovation.
Led by UL’s Centre for Sustainable Futures and Innovation (CSFI) in collaboration with the UL Doctoral School and UL Engage, and supported by YERUN and Erasmus+, the programme emphasises place-based learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. Participants will explore local sustainability initiatives while connecting with peers and mentors from a wide range of disciplines.
“This programme brings together a remarkable group of researchers committed to addressing some of the most pressing issues of our time,” says Andrea Deverell, Director of UL’s Centre for Sustainable Futures and Innovation. “The focus is on interdisciplinary collaboration and exchanging knowledge and ideas that can positively impact our own institutions and communities as well as the wider world.”
“Bringing together doctoral researchers from YERUN universities across Europe and beyond, and from diverse disciplinary backgrounds, is a powerful way to address a global challenge like sustainability,” says Silvia Gomez Recio, Secretary General of YERUN. “This BIP (blended intensive) programme exemplifies how collaboration and knowledge exchange can spark innovative solutions and empower the next generation of researchers to drive meaningful change.”
Highlights of the residential week at UL include interactive sessions on systems thinking, stakeholder engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration and field visits to the Southill Community Hub in Southill and St. Mary’s School in Kings Island to see engaged research in action. Participants will also tour Irish Seed Savers and the Cloughjordan Ecovillage in Tipperary to learn more about innovative approaches to sustainable living and development.
Following the residential component, participants will continue their journey through an online learning phase from February 3–April 25, 2025. During this time, they will engage with international experts and connect their learnings with their own research areas.
The programme reflects UL’s commitment to sustainability through education, research, and community engagement. For more information, visit UL Sustainability.