These researchers will be jointly supervised by academic staff from both institutions so they can benefit from the combined expertise of the two universities. 

The partnership will be dedicated to building resilient coastal communities, assisting economic sectors with energy transitions, and developing opportunities in the blue economy. It will build on the universities’ reputations for world-leading and award-winning marine, sustainability research and teaching.

The two institutions have made significant investments in sustainability, environmental and marine research over many years and have built up substantial capacity in these areas as a result.

UCC is one of Ireland’s leading universities in the area of climate, marine and sustainability research and is home to the Environmental Research Institute (ERI) and MaREI, the SFI Research Centre for Energy, Climate and Marine research and innovation. The University of Plymouth is one of the world’s top five universities for marine research and teaching, and among the top 5% of global universities for its commitment to sustainability, while its Marine Institute is the first and largest such institute in any UK university.

Commenting on the partnership, President of UCC, Professor John O’Halloran stated: “Climate change is a global emergency. The collaboration aims to address some of the key climate challenges and opportunities of our time, while inspiring and nurturing the next generation of innovative and pioneering researchers.”

Professor Judith Petts CBE, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Plymouth and lead of Universities UK’s Climate Task and Finish Group, said: “This exciting strategic partnership will capitalise on our institutions’ complementary research and innovation strengths and assets. Through collaboration, and with the support of our two cities, we will advance the development of our researchers and the essential responses to the global challenges of sustainability and climate change.”

Professor Sarah Culloty, Head of College, Science, Engineering and Food Science at University College stated: “I am delighted to welcome this historic partnership between University College Cork and the University of Plymouth. We can only rise to the challenges presented by the climate crisis through global cooperation. This collaboration will enable a new generation of researchers to tackle climate change through a unique doctoral programme that will strengthen both our institutions and benefit the planet.”