19-05-2025
DAFM policy leader receives Walsh Scholars Alum Award
A former PhD student whose work has helped shape Ireland's agri-food policy has been honoured with the 2025 Walsh Scholars Alum Award.
Dr. Karl Walsh, head of the Research, Bioeconomy and Codex Division at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), received the award at a ceremony in Teagasc Ashtown in recent days.
The Walsh Scholars Alum Award recognises outstanding graduates of the Teagasc Walsh Scholars Programme who have gone on to make a meaningful impact in agriculture, food, and rural development at national or international level.
Teagasc Walsh Scholars
The Teagasc Walsh Scholars Programme provides scholarship opportunities for postgraduate students to pursue a PhD while carrying out research in collaboration with Teagasc and its partner universities and higher education institutions.
The programme has had over 1,300 graduates to date.
Dr. Walsh, who previously worked as an agricultural attaché in Paris and helped lead the development of Food Vision 2030 – Ireland's national agri-food strategy – said the Teagasc programme had a lasting influence on his career.
'Being a Walsh Scholar was a turning point in my career. Along with strong scientific and analytical skills, it also gave me the confidence and connections I needed for a career in the public service,' Walsh explained.
'What makes this programme special is how it connects research with the everyday issues facing farmers, food producers, and rural communities.'
He has encouraged current Walsh Scholars to consider a career in the agri-food sector and to utilise their skillset to contribute to addressing the complex challenges and exciting innovation opportunities it faces.
He also emphasised their role in communicating science to the public.
Head of research development and Walsh Scholars at Teagasc, Jane Kavanagh praised Dr. Walsh's leadership and example: 'Our alumni demonstrate the lasting value of the Walsh Scholars Programme.
'Dr. Walsh is a perfect example of how the experience gained as a Walsh Scholar translates into leadership, innovation, and public impact.
'His career is a reminder to current and future Walsh Scholars of what's possible – and of the powerful role research can play in shaping policy, people, and progress.'
Established in 2018, the Walsh Scholars Alum Award celebrates alumni who exemplify the values of the programme and go on to make a lasting difference through their work in research, policy, or practice.
