The Irish Research Council in Dublin has launched an industrial PhD and master's programme that will place 70 postgraduate- and graduate-level researchers with businesses and non-profit organizations. Some 60–70 employers are joining the Employment Based Postgraduate Programme to help student researchers to develop innovation and entrepreneurial skills that should prepare them for entering the non-academic research workforce. The council contributes €24,000 (US$32,700) for each student, who receives a salary from the employer. Council director Eucharia Meehan says that the programme provides junior researchers with career options.