THE ROYAL IRISH ACADEMY IS IRELAND'S LEADING BODY OF EXPERTS IN THE SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES

The Royal Irish Academy/Acadamh Ríoga na hÉireann champions research. We identify and recognise Ireland’s world class researchers. We support scholarship and promote awareness of how science and the humanities enrich our lives and benefit society. We believe that good research needs to be promoted, sustained and communicated. The Academy is run by a Council of its members. Membership is by election and considered the highest academic honour in Ireland.

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Becoming a Member

The Royal Irish Academy values diversity and strives for a culture of equality and inclusion in all of its activities. As outlined in its Strategic Plan 2019-2023, the Academy is committed to ensuring greater gender, disciplinary, institutional and overall diversity in every area of the Academy and its work throughout the island of Ireland.  It particularly welcomes nominations from under-represented groups and communities.

Up to 20 Members are elected on 16 March each year, following a rigorous, peer-review selection procedure. Up to ten Members are elected in Science subjects, and up to ten in Humanities and Social Sciences.

Membership »

A small number of Honorary Members are elected each year. The distinction of Honorary Membership is usually reserved for academics who have made a major international contribution to their disciplines but who are not normally resident in Ireland. 

Honorary Membership »

Each year, the Council of the Academy can also recommend a small number of 'persons of distinction', who have made an exceptional contribution to Irish society and whose election would, in the opinion of Council, be of benefit to the Academy. 

Council Recommended Membership »

Independent review of the diversity and inclusion practices within our membership process

Diversity Review »

Celebrating our new elected Members admitted for their exceptional contributions to the sciences, humanities and social sciences and public service

Admittance Day »

Current and past Members of the Academy

Members' Directory »

Admittance Day 2021

Watch our 2021 ceremony

Latest News and Events

Nominations open for the Office of RIA President
11 October 2022

The RIA is governed by its President and Council who, in accordance with the founding Charter, are elected by the Members at a general meeting held in the spring of each year. The term of the current President, Dr Mary Canning is due to end on 16 March 2023. Nominations for her successor are now being sought. 

Membership