Paddy Jackson has committed his future to Ulster by signing a deal to keep him at the Kingspan Stadium until 2019.
The out-half has been a vital cog in the Ulster side, with 2 tries and 111 kicked points this season, contributing to a career total in excess of 800 points.
Jackson also started Ireland's first two Six Nations games this season and has offered regular competition to Johnny Sexton.
"I'm delighted to be staying on at Ulster Rugby for at least another two years. It is such a proud moment for myself and my family," said Jackson.
"Every time I pull on the Ulster jersey it is something that I don't want to take for granted and I hope to continue to grow as a player and contribute to this team in a positive way.
"I believe that the pillars for success are in place here at Ulster with a quality squad and management team. I am hugely excited by the challenges that lie ahead and I'd like to thank everyone who has helped me to this point in my career.”
Meanwhile, Connacht winger Cian Kelleher has been ruled out until close to the end of the season with a hamstring injury.
That's one of a number of injury concerns for Pat Lam's side ahead of Friday's Pro12 visit of Zebre.
Flanker Nepia Fox Matamua will see a surgeon to discover the extent of the knee injury he suffered in last weekend's win over Treviso.
Matt Healy, Marnitz Boshoff and Jake Heenan all sit out this week, but should be fit to face Glasgow towards the end of the month.
Darragh Leader and Eoin Griffin are in contention for this Friday's game after recovering from respective hand and chest injuries.