Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 May 2021
453. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the amount of funding needed to update the research framework to operate with PhD candidates as full employees of their institutions, rather than as students receiving grants or stipends; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27533/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraDoctoral education programmes in Ireland educate and develop researchers to the highest skills levels so that they become creative, critical and independent individuals who will advance the boundaries of research. Through the process of doctoral education, the student is provided with opportunities to develop a range of skills to a very advanced level. These skills relate both to the research process itself and to broader professional training and development.
In the academic year 2019/20, there were some 7,357 full time PhD students enrolled. There were also 1,327 full time research Masters students. In total there were 27,366 full time postgraduates enrolled in the academic year 2019/20. In addition, there are also part time students enrolled in these categories.
In relation to PhD students, a number would be in receipt of grants from research funders, a number would be receiving institutional or other scholarships, while others would be self-funded.
PhD students undertake a range of elements designed to further their training and development. In particular PhD students, in addition to conducting research, participate in other activities to develop generic and transferable skills, which can include a range of activities, such as taking tutorial groups, demonstrating at practical classes, co-supervising undergraduate projects and student mentoring.
I do not have full information on the hours involved by the PhD students in these activities to determine the basis upon which to make an estimate taking all of these factors into account.
