We advance next-generation technologies like 5G, IoT, and data analytics, directly influencing industries, education, and government. Our research empowers local communities and shapes global standards, ensuring innovation leaves a lasting, positive societal impact.
Through collaborations with startups, multinationals, and policymakers, we solve real-world challenges inclusively and sustainably. Engaging with nonprofits and communities, we ensure our insights drive equitable, responsible progress in an evolving world.
We celebrate the tangible outcomes of our projects, whether improving connectivity in rural areas, streamlining urban infrastructure, or developing safer, smarter solutions for health and well-being. Our outreach initiatives spark curiosity among young people and aspiring technologists, helping nurture the next generation of innovators who will continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
This enduring impact grows each day through CONNECT’s network of global collaborations, conferences, and educational programs. We actively share breakthroughs, nurture entrepreneurial ventures, and encourage vibrant debate on the potential of technology to shape a better future. In doing so, we amplify the reach of our research and ensure that our discoveries empower communities, enrich lives, and inspire a collective vision for a more connected world.
Who: Professor Marco Ruffini (co-PI, Trinity College Dublin) and industry partners, including Benetel, Intel, VMware, and others.
What: The 6G-One initiative, part of Ireland’s 6G Open Networking Alliance, focuses on advancing Open Radio Access Networks (Open RAN) through the integration of AI and innovative technologies.
When: 2023 and ongoing.
Where: Ireland, leveraging the OpenIreland testbed.
Breakthrough: This initiative is transforming the telecommunications landscape by developing open, interoperable, and modular network components. A key goal is to reduce energy consumption in Open RAN networks while addressing critical issues such as vendor lock-in and e-waste reduction. The project also enhances cloud RAN technology using X-haul and Analogue Radio over Fibre innovations.
Importance: Open RAN fosters competition by enabling start-ups to develop specialised network components, thus lowering barriers to entry in the telecoms market. By promoting sustainability and innovation, this initiative is poised to reduce operational costs and carbon footprints while stimulating economic growth in the sector.
Translation: The 6G-One initiative has catalysed a collaborative ecosystem of academia and industry, positioning Ireland as a leader in next-generation telecommunications.
Beneficiaries: Key industry partners such as Benetel, Intel, and VMware, as well as Irish start-ups and global stakeholders, benefit from the initiative’s advancements in network infrastructure and sustainability.
Metrics:
Who: Professor Holger Claussen (PI, Tyndall National Institute), Dr. Boris Galkin (Research Fellow, Trinity College Dublin), and Captain Ken Lyons (Irish Defence Forces).
What: Project MISTRAL develops a drone-based communication network to enhance real-time response capabilities for humanitarian and peacekeeping missions.
When: 2022–2024.
Where: Ireland and emergency response scenarios globally.
Breakthrough: Demonstrated a 625-fold increase in VHF radio coverage using drone-mounted systems, significantly improving communication in disaster-stricken areas such as post-earthquake Turkey and Syria. These AI-driven drones autonomously optimise their positions for maximum signal coverage.
Importance: Reliable, real-time communication is crucial for emergency response, logistics, and health services. MISTRAL’s scalable technology ensures that critical services can operate effectively in the most challenging environments.
Translation: Collaborations with A-techSYN, a UAV manufacturer, ensure the rapid industrialisation and deployment of the technology. This innovation has potential applications in commercial sectors such as logistics and remote sensing.
Beneficiaries: Irish Defence Forces, Civil Defence, emergency response teams, and affected communities in disaster zones.
Metrics:
Who: Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, BleeperBike, and researchers from Trinity College Dublin.
What: A pilot project testing the feasibility and impact of eCargobikes for urban deliveries to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality.
When: 2021–2023.
Where: Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Council area, Ireland.
Breakthrough: Demonstrated that participating businesses reduced carbon emissions by 1.92 tonnes during the pilot phase. The project also identified significant reductions in particulate matter and nitrogen oxide emissions. The average eCargobike delivery trip was 2.6 km, showcasing their efficiency for short-haul urban deliveries.
Importance: The adoption of eCargobikes for local deliveries offers a sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles, significantly reducing urban pollution and promoting active travel. The initiative provides a scalable model for other urban areas aiming to transition to greener logistics solutions.
Translation: Insights from the pilot have been shared with councils and businesses across Ireland to promote wider adoption of eCargobikes. The project has also inspired follow-up studies on tailoring cargo bikes for specific freight needs, such as temperature-controlled goods.
Beneficiaries: Local businesses and communities benefit from cleaner air and reduced traffic congestion. Cycle-based logistics companies like BleeperBike gain new opportunities, fostering economic growth in sustainable transport.
Metrics:
Beneficiaries: Irish Defence Forces, Civil Defence, emergency response teams, and affected communities in disaster zones.
Metrics: