CRIS Navigates New Waters: Securing €1.8 Million to Drive Marine Robotics Innovation

The Centre for Robotics & Intelligent Systems (CRIS) is excited to announce a significant funding milestone, having raised €1,800,000 to accelerate its pioneering work in robotics and marine technology. Formerly known as MMRRC – Mobile & Marine Robotics Research Centre, CRIS stands as the only dedicated research center in Ireland focusing on advancing both terrestrial and marine robotic applications. Since its inception in 2000 at the University of Limerick, CRIS has been the hub for a multi-disciplinary team of postdoctoral researchers and PhD students drawn from electronic, computer, mechanical, and aeronautical engineering backgrounds. This latest round of funding will empower the Centre to enhance its cutting-edge research and push the boundaries of innovation across its diverse portfolio. The newly raised capital is earmarked for several key initiatives including the development of advanced marine platforms, improved navigation systems, innovative sensor technologies, and enhanced emergency response planning tools. Additionally, resources will be allocated to further refine both Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) systems, ensuring that CRIS remains at the forefront of creating practical, industry-relevant robotic systems. As a proud integral part of MaREI – the SFI Centre for Marine & Renewable Energy – CRIS consistently contributes to both national and European collaborative projects, as well as fostering direct industry partnerships. Under the expert guidance of Co-Directors Prof. Daniel Toal and Dr. Gerard Dooly, this infusion of new funds is set to solidify CRIS’s role as a leader in the field of robotics, supporting innovative breakthroughs that will continue to shape the future of marine and robotics technology in Ireland and beyond.