Taoiseach Micheál Martin presented the prestigious Research Ireland St. Patrick’s Day Medal on Thursday, March 13 to Professor Richard Kearney, Charles B Seelig Professor in Philosophy at Boston College, and Mr. Michael Dowling, President and CEO of Northwell Health.
The Medal recognises the contribution of academic and industry leaders in the US across all disciplines, from science and engineering to the arts, humanities and social sciences.
These experts contribute to the research ecosystem in Ireland and to collaboration between research in Ireland and the United States.
Celine Fitzgerald, Interim CEO at Research Ireland, said: “Research Ireland is delighted to see the valuable work of Prof Richard Kearney and Mr. Michael Dowling being recognised through the presentation of the prestigious St. Patrick’s Day medal.
"Their continued contributions to research in Ireland over many years have enriched our RD&I landscape across all disciplines, from the arts, humanities and social sciences, to science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
"Our strong collaborative links with the research community in the US mutually benefit both countries and we look forward to continuing to build on this into the future.”
At the presentation event in Washington, DC on Thursday, the Taoiseach congratulated the recipients, saying: “I am delighted to present the Research Ireland St. Patrick’s Day Medal to Prof Richard Kearney and Mr. Michael Dowling.
"Their significant achievements in the fields of philosophy and healthcare respectively illustrate the exceptional work being carried out by the Irish research diaspora across the United States.
“The leadership and innovation of Prof Kearney and Mr. Dowling have been impactful across diverse areas, from aiding peace agreements to improving healthcare access.
"The Government of Ireland and Research Ireland are delighted to support transformative research such as this, which has wide-reaching benefits across Ireland and the US.”
Pleased to present the Research Ireland St. Patrick’s Day Medals today to Prof. Richard Kearney for academia, and Michael Dowling for research.
Thank you both for your tremendous contribution to the United States and Ireland. pic.twitter.com/TMowQ1DeFG
— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) March 13, 2025
Research Ireland St. Patrick’s Day Medal recipient Prof Richard Kearney
Prof Richard Kearney holds the Seelig Chair of Philosophy at Boston College and has served as a Visiting Professor at University College Dublin and the University of Paris.
He is the author of over 30 books on European philosophy and literature, including "The Irish Mind, Navigations: Selected Irish Essays," and most recently "Hosting Earth: facing the Climate Crisis" (2025).
He was formerly a member of the Arts Council of Ireland, the Higher Education Authority of Ireland and Chairman of the Irish School of Film at UCD.
He was involved in drafting proposals for the Northern Irish peace agreement and has appeared frequently in Irish, European and North American media. His third and most recent novel, ‘Salvage’, set in West Cork, is currently being adapted for film.
Prof Kearney commented: “I am honoured to be awarded the Research Ireland St. Patrick’s Day Medal.
"My connection with Ireland has always been central to my career. Bringing people together to share stories and perspectives is key to addressing our era’s greatest challenges. Collaborations and exchanges can help to transcend divides and build peace and reconciliation.
"I look forward to continuing my work with colleagues in both the U.S. and Ireland to strengthen empathy and understanding.”
Research Ireland St. Patrick’s Day Medal recipient Michael Dowling
Michael Dowling is one of the healthcare industry’s most highly respected voices. As President and CEO of Northwell Health, he oversees the largest healthcare provider in New York State, caring for over 2 million people annually through a network of 21 hospitals and over 900 outpatient facilities. Mr. Dowling has invested heavily in Northwell’s research arm, the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, transforming the treatment of conditions like lupus, arthritis, sepsis, cancer, psychiatric illness, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Mr. Dowling has developed a visionary approach to medical education, working on innovative medical school curricula and creating a corporate university. Throughout his career, he has initiated numerous programmes to expand primary care access to medical care, particularly to those who are uninsured.
On receiving his award, Mr. Dowling said: “I am delighted to accept the Research Ireland St. Patrick’s Day Medal recognizing my efforts to improve health outcomes for patients, through clinical care and research. In our work, it is vital to remain open to new knowledge.
"Partnerships with Irish companies continue to provide new perspectives that help to improve patient care in the U.S., Ireland and beyond. Maintaining close ties with Ireland continues to be of deep importance to my career.”
Comments