MTU joins NextTechTalents to empower Europe’s early-stage researchers

Munster Technological University (MTU) is a multi-campus technological university, contributing to the region through the provision of academic programmes that support student development and opportunities, education and research. MTU has an extensive and impressive regional footprint with six campuses across the South-West region in Cork and Kerry and a student body of 18,000.

Small class sizes, an excellent staff-student ratio and a strong emphasis on learning through practical application combine to make an interactive, dynamic learning environment.

MTU courses include undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Business, Engineering, Science, Computing, Nursing, Humanities, Art and Music. MTU has a very well-developed ‘ladder’ structure to enable students to progress through the different levels of qualifications.

The university prides itself on its close links with industry, which are crucial to ensuring that MTU graduates have the education and skill set necessary to thrive in the global tech high-skill economy across a diverse range of sectors, including computing, engineering, pharma, agri-food, health, tourism and sports.

MTU has six research centres of excellence which develop multi-disciplinary, industry-focused research programmes with national and international partners and prides itself on research output that benefits both the economy and the wider public.

Dr. Bobby Woods, lecturer and researcher at MTU, contributes to the Horizon Europe project NextTechTalents, which aims to build a robust talent ecosystem for early-stage researchers (R1 & R2).

Within the project, MTU plays a central role in data protection, legal, and IPR management (Task 1.3) and leads Work Package 4, which focuses on the rollout, implementation roadmap, training, validation, and optimization of innovative training systems. These activities support researcher competence development and enhance career mobility across academic, industrial, and entrepreneurial sectors.

Dr. Woods brings extensive experience in coordinating international research projects and promoting open science and ethical data management. His contribution ensures that NextTechTalents aligns with FAIR data principles, GDPR compliance, and the highest standards of transparency and research integrity.