The all-island network of early career researchers and innovators (ECRIs) welcomed 21 new members following a competitive selection process launched by the Royal Irish Academy (RIA) last year.

They include Professor Aisling McMahon of Maynooth University and Dr Sara Benedi Lahuerta of UCD Sutherland School of Law.

Professor McMahon is a researcher working at the intersection of health law, intellectual property, and access to health.

Dr Lahuerta is a legal scholar specialising in equality and labour law, with particular expertise in gender pay equity and pay transparency legislation.

Lynn Scarff, RIA’s executive director, said: “Welcoming the new cohort of members to YAI marks an important step in strengthening Ireland’s research and innovation ecosystem. These exceptional early career researchers and innovators represent the depth and diversity of talent across the island.

“Through YAI, we are investing not only in their professional development, but in their capacity to shape policy dialogue, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and contribute meaningfully to the societal challenges facing Ireland and beyond.”

Dan Carey, RIA’s secretary, added: “YAI has a vital mission to renew and sustain Ireland’s intellectual life. Bringing together a group of dynamic researchers and innovators, YAI is setting agendas for the future that will inform reflection in key areas of academic and social concern.

“The range of disciplines and the rich and diverse cultural backgrounds members come from provide the foundation for valuable collaboration, intellectual engagement and public contribution.”