The research project, supported by IDA Ireland, will further Ericsson’s development of open programmable networks. Telecommunications company Ericsson has announced it will be investing €200m into its Athlone facility, as part of a pioneering research, development and innovation project (RD&I), to be carried out at the location, with the support of the Irish Government through IDA Ireland. The Athlone facility recently celebrated 50 years in operation and Ericsson currently employs around 1,300 people in Ireland, with the premises in Athlone serving as a hub of activity for telecoms and intelligent network management. “This €200m investment, supported by the IDA and Irish Government, is a testament to our commitment to Ireland and confidence in our exceptional talent here. This RD&I project embodies cutting-edge innovation and exemplifies IDA’s continued commitment to balanced regional development.”As part of our Career Close-up series, we recently spoke with Usharani Marappan, a master engineer at Ericsson’s Athlone facility.