IRCSET EMPOWER Scheme
The objective of the IRCSET EMPOWER Scheme is to provide top-quality young researchers with the opportunity to avail of a period of research at an Irish Host Instititution. The scheme is designed to encourage excellence in research by funding those at an early stage of their postdoctoral career to associate with established research teams who have achieved international recognition for their work. The duration of a fellowship is 2 years.

Eligibility Criteria

Currently hold or about to receive a doctoral degree, awarded by any institution
worldwide.1
• Have not yet been employed in a postdoctoral research position for more than 36 months at the closing date of the call. Career breaks or periods in industry will not be included in the calculation of 36 months. Applicable career breaks include parental leave or periods

working in an industrial setting where the applicant was not able to publish peer-reviewed publications.

• Ensure that their research proposal subject falls into one of the 8 subject areas described above, or is interdisciplinary within those 8 areas.

Fellowship Award :

The Fellowship award will be valued at €41,550 per annum including:
• €33,000 maintenance
• €3,550 for employers contribution to Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI))2
• €5,000 additional costs (research materials etc.)
The average net salary for the fellow will be €33,000 per annum, prior to income tax deductions.


IRCSET EMPOWER: Government of Ireland Postdoctoral Fellowships in Science, Engineering and Technology Scheme of the Irish Research Council for Science, Engineering and Technology