TU RISE Launch Promotes Research Collaboration With Focus on Digital Transformation and Sustainability

South East Technological University (SETU) proudly hosted the highly anticipated launch of TU RISE (TU Research and Innovation Supporting Enterprise) on Wednesday, 20 November, at SETU’s Cork Road Campus.

The event brought together industry leaders, academics, and policymakers to celebrate the transformative impact of TU RISE and its role in driving regional development.

SETU President Professor Veronica Campbell’s welcoming address highlighted the University’s commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration through TU RISE. Prof. Marie Claire Van Hout, SETU’s Vice President for Research, Innovation and Impact, followed with a strategic overview of the initiative, underlining its importance in enhancing SETU’s engagement with regional enterprises.

Prof. Campbell said, “The launch of TU RISE today represents not just a new initiative but a bold step forward in our collective journey toward excellence, opportunity, and impact.

“The launch of TU RISE is a defining moment for SETU, but it is also an invitation: an invitation to all of us to step forward and be part of something greater. As we continue to build and grow this initiative, we must remember that it is only through collaboration, curiosity, and bold thinking that we will achieve the transformative impact we seek.”

Dr Geraldine Canny provided attendees with insights into TU RISE offerings, outlining the opportunities it presents for businesses and researchers.

A highlight of the event was a round-table discussion on regional development and the critical role research plays in driving economic growth. Facilitated by Prof. Felicity Kelliher, the discussion featured leading experts, including Prof. Dominique Foray from EPFL, Dr James O’Sullivan, Head of Innovation and Commercialisation at SETU, and Louise Grubb, entrepreneur and director at Trivium Vet.

Attendees also benefitted from thought-provoking presentations, including:

• Dr Patrick Lynch’s introduction to the TU RISE Digital Masterclass.

• Ed Murphy of Greentech HQ, who shared actionable insights on adopting sustainability in regional companies.

• Dr Laurence Fitzhenry and the OTRG team, who detailed their successful collaboration with Bausch + Lomb.

• Michael Flynn of FLI Global, who spoke about his experience working with SETU on collaborative projects.

The event was attended by a wide range of regional companies, SETU academics and staff, as well as representatives from regional development agencies and the Southern Regional Assembly. TU RISE is co-financed by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-27.