Coillte R&D evolved from the Research Branch of the Forest Service originally founded in 1957. The research carried out since its formation has helped to underpin the success of the forestation effort over the last four decades. Today the unit continues to be primarily engaged in research into silviculture or tree growing in its broadest sense. However, as the environmental aspects of forestry gain importance in the perception of both public and government, monitoring the effects of forestry practices on the environment is becoming a significant part of the work of the unit.

In recent years the greater emphasis on commercial forestry has increased the need for technical support services. The R&D unit has responded by becoming more service orientated by providing technical support to the Business Units of the Company. Work is also undertaken for the Forest Service to support their Operational Programme and service regulatory functions that require a scientific input.

The Coillte R&D unit is organised into four main sections and a secretariat which are located along with the laboratories in Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow. The Tree Improvement field station is located in Kilmacurra near Glenealy, also in County Wicklow. An extensive network of over 900 field trials covering a wide range of silvicultural treatments such as seed sources, cultivation techniques, planting stock, fertilisers, thinning, spacing and pruning practices are located throughout the Company's forests. Research foresters, based in the Company's Regional offices, have the responsibility for managing the network.