2006 – 2026 • 20 Years
Celebrating 20 Years of the Northern Ireland Longitudinal Study
In 2026, the Northern Ireland Longitudinal Study (NILS) marks its 20th anniversary. Over the past two decades, NILS has become one of Northern Ireland’s most important research resources, supporting high-quality research on population change, health, migration, inequalities, ageing, education, housing and many other aspects of society.
Years of linked data
1981 – 2021
Research projects – across a wide range of topics
Researchers
of NI population
included in NILS
Event
NILS 20th Anniversary Celebration
Wednesday
25 November 2026
To mark this milestone, we will host a special anniversary event, bringing together researchers, policy makers, data providers, funders and partners who have helped shape the study over the past twenty years.
The event will provide an opportunity to celebrate achievements, share experiences and discuss the future direction of the study.
The programme will explore:
- The origins and development of NILS
- How NILS has supported research careers and capacity building
- Key research discoveries and contributions
- The impact of NILS beyond academia
- Future opportunities for research, collaboration and engagement
Our Impact
Celebrating the NILS Legacy
As part of the anniversary celebrations, we are developing a range of resources that showcase the growth, impact and achievements of NILS over the past twenty years. These will be published on this page as they become available.
NILS Data Insights: Northern Ireland 1991–2021
A collection of key findings and visualisations highlighting demographic, social and health changes across Northern Ireland, drawing on three decades of NILS data.
NILS at 20: Anniversary Booklet
A special publication documenting the development of the study, key milestones, research achievements, partnerships and contributions to evidence-based policy and decision-making.
Longitudinal Study
Our Journey
A unique resource for understanding people, place and change in Northern Ireland.
Anniversary News
Read the latest news, stories and updates related to NILS’s 20th anniversary.
