PhDStart

PhDStart

Supports Ireland researchers with structured pathways in co-funding for applied PhD hires in companies, from planning to deployment.

Enterprise Ireland's PhDStart programme is a co-funded salary scheme that enables Irish companies to recruit PhD graduates into dedicated research, development, and innovation roles linked directly to the company's strategic R&D growth plan. The programme sits within EI's broader GradStart capability-development suite and specifically addresses the market gap for companies seeking to embed doctoral-level research talent without bearing the full two-year salary cost. Enterprise Ireland provides 50% of the PhD graduate's salary over 24 months, up to a maximum contribution of EUR 62,000, based on the Irish Universities Association Post Doctoral Researcher pay scale (PD1, point 1). Companies may pay above this scale at their own discretion, but the EI contribution is capped at EUR 62,000 regardless. The qualifying R&D expenditure on the graduate's salary is also eligible for Ireland's 30% R&D corporation tax credit, further reducing the net cost to the company.

PhDStart is open to all Enterprise Ireland SME clients, mid-tier companies (under 500 employees), HPSU companies meeting additional criteria, Udaras na Gaeltachta clients, and large companies in certain circumstances. The minimum staffing threshold is five full-time employees in Ireland to hire one graduate, or ten full-time employees for three graduates. HPSU Accelerate companies must have drawn down their EI equity investment at least six months prior to application and must demonstrate satisfactory progress against their business plan. Companies must be EBITA positive in normal circumstances; EBITA-negative companies require an exception of policy. Eligible PhD graduates must have obtained their doctorate within the previous four years (or be in the final twelve months of their PhD at application, with thesis submission required before the contract start date) and hold a valid work permit for the full 24-month placement.

The application process is rolling — there is no fixed call deadline. Companies first complete an Expression of Interest matching form, which Enterprise Ireland uses to identify suitable PhD candidates from its network and match expertise to the company's stated R&D needs. Once a graduate is identified and both parties agree on the RD&I work programme, the formal application is submitted through EI's online system with the company's Client Adviser copied. Funding is governed by the De Minimis State Aid framework under Commission Regulation (EU) No. 2023/2831. Ineligible uses include recruitment costs, employer PRSI, bonuses, accommodation, travel, and any roles oriented toward sales or marketing rather than research.