Ireland joins CERN as Associate Member State

Ireland has officially joined the European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) as an Associate Member State, the Department of Further and Higher Education (DFHERIS), Research, Innovation and Science announced on 22/10/2025.

As an Associate Member of CERN, Ireland's researchers will have increased access to its scientific programmes and are also eligible for staff and fellowship positions. Irish citizens can also access CERN's training programmes on topics such as electronics, photonics and energy systems, and Irish enterprises can compete in CERN procurement programmes.

"From procurement contracts and fellowships to frontier training and global partnerships, Ireland is now part of a scientific ecosystem that shapes the future. We are not just joining CERN. We are stepping onto the world stage of discovery, and Ireland is ready to make its mark," said James Lawless, Minister of DFHERIS.

Associate Members of CERN pay a reduced contribution to the organisation's budget and also have reduced benefits. Like full members, they are represented at the CERN Council. However, they are…