Teagasc Appoint Jane Kavanagh as Head of Research Development and Walsh Scholarships

Jane Kavanagh has been appointed as Head of Research Development and Walsh Scholarships in Teagasc. In this role, Jane will provide strategic leadership at a senior level in the operation and development of the Teagasc research programme, and ensure Teagasc has effective systems and processes as expected of a modern, innovative and efficient research- performing organisation.

Teagasc Appoint Jane Kavanagh as Head of Research Development and Walsh Scholarships

In relation to the Teagasc Walsh Scholarships programme, Jane will take overall responsibility for leading, managing and developing the Teagasc Walsh Scholarship Programme, which is a key Teagasc programme to develop talent for the agri-food industry with an annual expenditure of around €6 million.  

Jane Kavanagh has over 20 years’ experience in a variety of managerial roles in Teagasc including Publications Manager and Head of Business Planning and Performance Evaluation Unit. 

She holds a first class honours degree in Agricultural Science from University College Dublin. She achieved a first class honours Masters in Strategic Management and Planning from UCD Smurfit Business School and a postgraduate diploma in leadership from IMI/UCC.

In response to Jane’s appointment, Professor Frank O’Mara, Director of Research in Teagasc said; “Jane brings a wealth of talent and experience to this role having led the Research Operations function in Teagasc for the last 9 years. During this time she modernised research management systems in Teagasc, pioneered a unique Post-Doctoral Training and Development Programme, and led a number of important developments in science communication.” 

Commenting on her appointment, Jane Kavanagh said; “I am very excited about my new role. The Teagasc Walsh Scholarships programme provides a great opportunity for recent and experienced graduates to pursue postgraduate study and advance their careers in the agri-food sector.  I look forward to developing a new strategy for the Walsh Scholarships programme and enhancing the student experience in collaboration with our partners in the Universities, technological universities and Institutes of Technology”.