The Royal Irish Academy (Academy Ríoga na héireann) is an independent body founded in 1785. Its membership numbers over 300 who have been elected in recognition of their distinction as scholars. Among them are the leading authorities in the various branches of science and humanities in Ireland. The Academy promotes the study in the sciences and humanities and encourages excellence through election to its membership and a system of awards and prizes. It also helps co-ordinate scholarship on a cross-institutional, interdisciplinary basis. The Academy's library is renowned for its collection of unique Irish manuscripts.

President:
Professor Nicholas P. Canny

Vice Presidents:
Senior Vice President - Professor D.J. Fegan
Vice Presidents - Professor M.E. Daly, Professor F. O'Gara, Mr B. O'Donoghue

Foreign Secretary/Secretary General:
Dr. Howard Clarke (Secretary of the Academy)

IAP Contact Person:
Professor Marie-Therese Flanagan, International Relations Secretary