Engineers Ireland, in partnership with Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland, recently hosted an event on Big Science Ireland. The event brought together European research organisations, State agencies, engineering leaders, researchers, and businesses to explore how Irish companies can participate in major international science and technology programmes.

Contributors outlined engineering opportunities associated with CERN, the European Southern Observatory (ESO), ITER and the UK fusion sector. Discussions demonstrated that Big Science is not solely about scientific research. It also creates demand for advanced engineering, manufacturing, construction, digital systems, robotics, safety solutions, and specialist professional services. Irish companies with experience in highly regulated and technically demanding sectors are well positioned to compete for this work and develop relationships within international supply chains.  

A central message from the event was that companies should take practical steps to make themselves visible to these organisations. This begins with registering on the relevant procurement and supplier portals, monitoring forthcoming tenders and ensuring that company profiles accurately reflect technical capabilities and previous project experience. 

Companies interested in fusion and ITER opportunities can use the Fusion for Energy Industry and Fusion Laboratories Portal, which provides access to procurement opportunities, market surveys, information days, guidance and supplier registration. Businesses can register through the ESO Procurement Portal to participate in ESO procurement processes. Irish suppliers interested in CERN should register on the CERN e-Procurement Portal, where companies can create and maintain a supplier profile.  

These portals provide a direct route for Irish industry to identify opportunities, build international partnerships and compete for contracts arising from Europe’s leading research infrastructures. 

View all presentations from the event