Helena Lenihan

Helena Lenihan is a Full Professor of Economics at the Kemmy Business School, University of Limerick. Her research focuses on the Economics of Innovation, R&D subsidies and tax incentives, Innovation Policy, and Industrial Policy. She has led a major SFI-funded research project (2008–2024) evaluating science policy impacts on firm performance and mentored a team of researchers, PhD students, and assistants.

Her work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals and spans areas like Green/Eco Innovation, Policy Evaluation, and Innovation and Human Capital. She has published in top journals such as Research Policy, Small Business Economics, and Industry and Innovation.

Scientific Awards and Recognition:

• National Excellence in Teaching Award (NAIRTL)
• UL Excellence in Teaching Award (twice)

Helena actively engages with policymakers, advising agencies like Enterprise Ireland and the UK’s Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy. She chairs UL’s Research Impact Committee and is a Research Associate at the UK’s Enterprise Research Centre.