Ian Hughes

Ian Hughes is a Senior Research Fellow at University College Cork (UCC) and holds a concurrent role as Senior Policy Advisor in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy for the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation. His work bridges academic research and policymaking to advance Ireland's sustainability transition.

• Affiliations: MaREI (Marine and Renewable Energy Ireland), OECD Working Party on Innovation and Technology Policy (TIP)

Research Focus: Ian specializes in system innovation thinking for national policy frameworks, particularly in STI policy alignment with sustainability goals. His expertise includes strategic government advisory roles and international collaboration through organizations like the OECD.

Projects: He drives integration of system innovation into Ireland’s innovation policy, supporting policymakers in sustainable development. Over the past decade, he contributed to Ireland’s STI strategies, including Innovation 2020, and represented Ireland in OECD’s system innovation initiatives.