The head of Galway’s Marine Institute has been appointed to a key positions on the EU agency promoting healthy oceans and waterways.
Dr Peter Heffernan, CEO of the Marine Institute, has been selected as a member of the European Commission’s Mission Board for Healthy Oceans, Seas, Coastal and Inland Waters.
The Mission Board is one of five major research missions of Horizon Europe, the EU Research and Innovation programme (2021 – 2027).
Dr Heffernan is one of 15 experts on the Mission Board which will identify the first possible specific missions on healthy oceans by the end of 2019.
Over 2,100 people from around the EU and beyond applied for a position on the Mission Board, which was culled down to the 15 best choices.
Dr Heffernan has previosuly served on the EU’s Research and Innovation Area Board (ERIAB) from 2012 – 2016.
He has led the Marine Institute in Oranmore as its CEO since its foundation in 1993, and will be retiring from that role in October after 26 years of service.
Welcoming the announcement, Dr John Killeen Chairman of the Marine Institute, said “Dr Heffernan has played a fundamental role in developing Ireland’s ocean research capacity, and for driving collaboration in marine research and innovation in Europe and internationally.
“I congratulate Peter on his appointment, which reflects his strong standing in the European research community.”
photo credit: Andrew Downes Xposure
