Three-time Academy Award nominee Saoirse Ronan has been announced as the inaugural ambassador of the Irish Film Institute (IFI).

This new role will involve a three-year commitment to act as an advocate for the IFI's work in exhibition, peservation and education.

In 2011, Ronan featured in the IFI's preservation fundraising campaign - lending her talent to help raise awareness of vital funds needed to build a new preservation facility for materials preserved in the IFI Irish Film Archive.

She will assist the IFI in championing the Irish film industry and the IFI's work in preserving film culture, the institute says.

On the new role, Ronan says: "I am delighted to have been asked to be the inaugural IFI ambassador.

"Film in Ireland is always something I will support.

"Our industry is going from strength to strength through the incredible projects being produced at home and abroad by Irish filmmakers, and by producers from across the pond also.

"IFI has always cared about great cinema, and I am honoured to play a small part in their effort to share the brilliant work that is out there with as many people as possible."

Saoirse Ronan arrives at the 77th Golden Globe Awards held at The Beverly Hilton Hotel, California on January 5th, 2020 | Image: Sipa USA/SIPA USA/PA Images

IFI director Ross Keane adds: "Saoirse is a hugely gifted actress, and we are delighted to have a respected artist of her standing as our inaugural IFI ambassador.

"Saoirse has achieved excellence in her craft, which is a value we strive for across our remit of film exhibition, preservation and education."

The Irish actress came to international prominence in 2007 with her starring role in 'Atonement', for which she received Golden Globe, BAFTA and Academy Award nominations.

In 2015, Ronan starred in 'Brooklyn' for which she received Academy Award, BAFTA, and Screen Actors Guild Award nominations.

In 2017, she won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy for her role in 'Lady Bird'.

She is currently nominated for an Academy Award and BAFTA for her role as Jo March in 'Little Women', which reunites her with director Greta Gerwig.

The IFI is principally funded by the Arts Council.