A proactive research approach where projects are initiated to; 1) address specific issues (e.g. player injury, environment, technology); 2) enhance current practice (e.g. training prescription, leadership), or 3) identify opportunities for discovery, ensures that research is anchored to performance, safety, enjoyment, and the health of our players and staff.

Our comprehensive Research and Discovery Strategy can be found here

The IRFU has developed strong research links with a number of Irish universities, both centrally and provincially. Although we actively engage with research partners in both academia and industry, we maintain a transparent and inclusive process to deliver research. We will give all applications the same attention and opportunity to engage with research in Irish rugby.

Applications

Our application process comprises four stages:

1. Application form completed by researcher and sent to research@irfu.ie
2. IRFU Research and Discovery Unit value assessment.
3. Research Advisory Committee independent review.
4. Outcome communicated to research applicant to progress.

Downloand the IRFU Research Application Form here

The full application process is explained here: IRFU Research and Discovery Application Process

Only completed application forms will be considered and entered into our research process. Please submit your application form to research@irfu.ie

Please note that the IRFU Research and Discovery Unit and the IRFU Research Advisory Committee are not ethics committees. You will need to get appropriate ethical approval from a recognised Ethics Committee, usually through your academic institution.

If you have any questions regarding the process, please contact research@irfu.ie for further information.