Ireland is an English-speaking EU member state with a thriving research ecosystem backed by the Irish Research Council, Science Foundation Ireland and Enterprise Ireland. Most funded positions include a tax-free stipend of €18,500–€25,000 per year plus fees. Positions are available at Trinity College Dublin, UCD, UCC, University of Galway and more — open to both EU and international applicants.
Ireland is one of only two English-speaking EU member states, making it accessible to international researchers while offering full access to EU funding, research networks and freedom of movement.
Ireland hosts European headquarters for Google, Apple, Meta, Pfizer and over a thousand multinationals. Industry-linked PhDs through Enterprise Ireland and SFI often include placement opportunities and above-average stipends.
Most Irish universities run structured PhD programmes that combine taught modules in the first year with research supervision — giving you transferable skills alongside your thesis.
As an EU member state, Ireland participates fully in Horizon Europe. Many funded positions are attached to EU projects, offering conference funding, secondments across Europe and international co-supervision.
Also consider: Funded PhD in the UK · Funded Masters in Europe · All funded opportunities