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News Archive
Friday, 31 January 2025
Research led by a team of investigators at University of Galway has revealed that frailty has a greater impact than age on the outcomes of patients being weaned off invasive mechanical ventilation, required by patients with various forms of respiratory failure. Despite the widespread use and clear benefits of mechanical ventilation, it is not a risk-free intervention. The research is a sub-study of the international study – “Worldwide Assessment of Separation of Patients from Ventilatory Assistance” (WEAN SAFE), led by the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine and the European Respiratory Society. The sub-study was jointly first authored by University of Galway medical students, Rionach Sheerin and Caoimhe Laffey as part of the Health Research Board Summer scholarship programme. Professor Andrew Simpkin, Professor in Statistics at the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences from University of Galway led the analysis team for the study. Weaning is the process by which mechanical ventilation support is gradually reduced and then discontinued, to allow a patient to breathe by themselves. This sub-study sought to understand why delayed and failed weaning of patients from invasive mechanical ventilation worsens patient outcomes, increases the risk of dying and increases the length of intensive care unit and hospital stay. The international WEAN SAFE study analysed data from 4,523 patients across 481 intensive care units in 50 countries. The University of Galway sub-study categorised patients into four groups based on age and also based on frailty - a medical condition where a person’s body systems lose their built-in reserves, making them vulnerable to stressors like illness or injury. The findings, published in Annals of Intensive Care and available at: https://rdcu.be/d7mQR, demonstrate that frailty plays a more decisive role than age in determining both the likelihood of delayed and failed weaning and overall survival rates. Key Findings: Frail patients, regardless of their age, faced significantly higher risks of delayed weaning (28%) and weaning failure (23%) compared to non-frail and younger patients (12% and 13%, respectively). Frail and elderly patients (4% of the study population) had the poorest outcomes, with hospital mortality reaching 46%. Older age, though significant, had a lesser impact on outcomes compared to frailty. Professor John Laffey, Professor of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine at University of Galway’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, and Consultant in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine at Galway University Hospitals, said: “Delayed and failed weaning from mechanical intubation is a critical challenge in ICUs worldwide, with far-reaching implications for patient recovery and resource utilisation. Patients requiring intensive care are increasingly older and more frail. The study's findings point to the importance of incorporating frailty assessments into ICU protocols to guide decision-making, optimise care, and further improve outcomes for these at-risk populations.” Dr Bairbre McNicholas, Senior Lecturer at University of Galway and Consultant in Intensive Care Medicine at Galway University Hospitals, said: “This study highlights the value of frailty assessments in critical care settings as is provides clear evidence that frailty, rather than age alone, should be a key consideration in managing weaning processes.” The WEAN SAFE study is a global initiative to advance understanding of the challenges associated with Intensive Care Unit mechanical ventilation and weaning processes. It is the first global study to describe the weaning process in detail, characterising different approaches used by physicians globally in regard to weaning for mechanical ventilation, and the impact of delayed and failed weaning from ventilation. The study’s findings provide a robust evidence base to inform clinical practice and improve patient care worldwide. Ends
Wednesday, 29 January 2025
University of Galway and PwC Ireland have announced the renewal of a strategic partnership to promote talent for business. The partnership runs for five years until 2030, ensuring PwC and the University’s J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics continue to collaborate on the University's Bachelor of Commerce Skills Pathway, focusing on developing students' innovation and entrepreneurial talent. The programme will comprise three modules: skills for success; skills for business; and skills for innovation, creativity and enterprise. At the announcement, Doone O’Doherty, People Partner, PwC Ireland, said: "PwC’s research indicates that more still needs to be done to upskill today’s workforce and this need has come to the fore as AI and Generative AI disrupts businesses. Education has an important role to play in ensuring that our graduates' skills are future-proofed. As one of Ireland's largest graduate recruiters, we recognise the importance of developing talent, having the digital, entrepreneurial and collaborative skills needed for a fast-moving business environment. We are delighted to continue our partnership with University of Galway to help prepare students for the Irish and international workplace and to equip them with the relevant skills to become world-class business leaders." Professor Alma McCarthy, Dean, J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, University of Galway, said: “We are delighted to announce the renewal of our successful partnership with PwC. The PwC partnership enables our Bachelor of Commerce students to develop their entrepreneurial skills using practical real-world projects mentored by leading industry and business leaders. We look forward to continuing to build on our excellent relationship with PwC, a relationship that extends over a decade.’’ In addition to focusing on skill and competency development, University of Galway's Bachelor of Commerce Skills Pathway programme will also involve peer-assisted learning; opportunities to shadow and learn from current PwC graduates on-site; guest lecturing sessions; employability skills training; and mentoring. Ends
Tuesday, 28 January 2025
The UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre co-hosted a special event Acting with Empathy, with Irish actor and Centre Patron, Cillian Murphy at the Stella Cinema in Rathmines, Dublin. The programme included an exclusive screening of the movie Small Things Like These distributed by Lionsgate and Big Things Films followed by a discussion with RTÉ’s John Kelly where the actor reflected on his patronage of the work on empathy with the UNESCO Centre in Galway and the importance of engaging young people in social issues. The event was held in association with Foróige and Pennsylvania State University in the US, to highlight the on-the-ground delivery of evidence-based empathy education for adolescents in schools and in community youth work settings in Ireland. Commenting on how the film’s theme connects with the actor’s support for the partners’ work in promoting empathy in adolescents, Cillian Murphy said: “While the movie Small Things reflects on the plight of Irish life in the mid-1980s, its message of the need for empathy and compassion in communities has even more resonance today given the personal and social challenges young people face and endure – not least issues of prejudice, targeted hate speech and online bullying.” The event featured a Q&A with Cillian Murphy and two Youth Researchers who work with the UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre. It also offered a unique opportunity to share with potential sponsors plans to build on established expertise in the field through the development of a transatlantic UNESCO Observatory for Youth Empathy and Engaged Citizenship co-located with Pennsylvania State University. The Observatory will provide the infrastructure that brings research evidence and implementation together for ‘real world’ application and generate evidence with and for young people. Ailbhe Ni Mhorain, a 6th year student at Dominican College, Taylor’s Hill in Galway and a Youth Researcher, said: “Now more than ever, empathy education is essential so young people can truly understand each other and not at a surface level. As the voice of tomorrow, we need to be able to work together to face the challenges arising in the future.” Matthew Shaw-Torkzadeh, Transition Year student, Newpark Comprehensive School, Dublin and also a Youth Researcher, said: "If empathy is a muscle that can be trained, the best way to do that is through connecting with and acting on behalf of those facing injustice starting with involvement in your own community." Since 2016, a team of researchers at University of Galway have developed a concrete basis for understanding empathy, social values and civic behaviour in adolescents. Based on active emphatic responding at interpersonal, community and societal levels, this research is enabling the development of interventions such as curriculum for secondary schools, programmes for community youth work, and policy frameworks for governments. Ends
Tuesday, 28 January 2025
Technologies being researched to help farmers mitigate against climate change A European research-led consortium has been established to pioneer technologies to improve crop resilience to drought stress caused by climate change. EpiSeedLink is a €2.69 million project funded under the European Commission’s Horizon Europe that will run for four years, exploring new methods to improve how farmed crops can survive prolonged dry spells by harnessing natural processes. The research consortium is made up of partners in Ireland, France, Spain, Germany, the Netherlands with the Kerry-based biotech company BioAtlantis and the lead researcher, Dr Sara Farrona at University of Galway. EpiSeedLink employs two key strategies: understanding the molecular and epigenetic mechanisms behind seed germination and vigour to develop drought-resistant crops; and developing Molecular Seed Priming agents from renewable marine and terrestrial resources, such as seaweed, to improve seed performance under drought. These approaches will be tested in laboratory and field trial conditions using model plants such as Arabidopsis – a flowering plant of the mustard family; as well as tomato and oilseed rape - two major crops grown in Europe. Dr Sara Farrona, Head of the Plant Development Epigenetics Laboratory of the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, College of Science and Engineering, University of Galway, said: “Our goal is to research the potential for technologies that could help farmers grow crops under climate-related stress conditions, such as drought. As development of agricultural sustainable practices is essential in combating climate change, the goal of EpiSeedLink is to contribute to this challenge by driving progress toward a more sustainable world and advancing both foundational knowledge and practical solutions in agriculture. “The research is investigating epigenetic mechanisms – essentially how cell function can be changed. Epigenetic processes in biology are analogous to a computer's software. While genomes resemble the hardware running cells, epigenetic changes resemble software that manage when genes are switched on or off. Such changes can occur naturally in response to environmental factors, linking cells to their surroundings, but without altering crop DNA sequences. “This project seeks to harness these natural processes to deliver new sustainable technologies to crop growers.” The EpiSeedLink project involves research in three main areas: Seed Germination: Understanding how epigenetic factors influence the development of a new plant, known as seed-to-seedling transition. Stress Adaptation: Studying how plants respond to drought stress. Seed Priming: Developing technologies to improve drought tolerance using Molecular Seed Priming agents from renewable marine and terrestrial resources, such as seaweed. As part of the EpiSeedLink consortium, University of Galway and BioAtlantis are hosting PhD students who are being trained as the next generation of plant scientists in innovative plant epigenetics research, offering new ways to improve crop yields and stress resilience. Dr Sujeeth Neerakkal, Head of Plant Research, BioAtlantis Ltd, said: “EpiSeedLink is a cutting-edge research project focused on modulating the epigenetic code in crops, using novel Molecular Priming agents. In this project, BioAtlantis will play a key role in developing these molecular priming agents to improve drought tolerance and to enhance growth and yield in crops, whilst also contributing to the training of the next generation of PhD level scientists in this field of research. As part of their training students will conduct scientific trials at BioAtlantis’ R&D facilities, using model plants and crops species such as, oil seed rape and tomato. BioAtlantis’ participation in EpiSeedLink is testament to its continued commitment to the development of STEM and biotechnology in Ireland, and our drive to deliver proven and sustainable solutions to crop growers worldwide.” Read more information about EpiSeedLink, here: https://episeedlink.eu/ Ends
Monday, 27 January 2025
Is í an tOllamh Alma McCarthy an chéad bhean a ceapadh sa phost Tá an tOllamh Alma McCarthy ceaptha ina Déan Feidhmiúcháin ar Choláiste an Ghnó, an Bheartais Phoiblí & an Dlí in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe. Is í an chéad bhean a ceapadh sa ról mar cheannasaí dáimhe agus beidh an tOllamh McCarthy ag glacadh leis an ról ón 1 Márta 2025, ar feadh tréimhse ceithre bliana. Cuimsítear Scoil an Dlí, Scoil Ghnó agus Eacnamaíochta J.E. Cairnes agus Coláiste Ósta na Sionainne mar chuid den Choláiste. Bhí an méid seo le rá ag Uachtarán Eatramhach Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, an tOllamh Peter McHugh: “Níl aon amhras orm ach go dtabharfaidh an tOllamh Alma McCarthy ceannaireacht den scoth ina ról nua mar Dhéan Feidhmiúcháin Choláiste an Ghnó, an Bheartais Phoiblí agus an Dlí san Ollscoil, agus í ag obair le comhghleacaithe anseo agus níos faide i gcéin, agus í ag cur chun cinn oideachas agus taighde den scoth a mbeidh an-tionchar aige agus a bheidh ag teacht lenár n-uaillmhianta straitéiseacha sna blianta amach romhainn. “Gabhaim buíochas freisin leis an Ollamh Geraint Howells, an Déan Feidhmiúcháin atá ag dul as oifig, as a sheirbhís don Ollscoil agus as an gceannaireacht atá tugtha aige le ceithre bliana anuas. Tá cion nach beag déanta aige d'fhorbairt na hOllscoile le linn dó a bheith ag obair linn. Guím gach rath air sa todhchaí.” Tá an tOllamh McCarthy ina Déan ar Scoil Ghnó agus Eacnamaíochta J.E. Cairnes in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe ó 2021. Tá sí ina hOllamh le Bainistíocht Earnála Poiblí agus i measc na spéiseanna taighde atá aici tá ceannaireacht san earnáil phoiblí agus forbairt acmhainní daonna, oiliúint, cothromaíocht oibre is saoil agus an chianobair. Bhí an tOllamh McCarthy i gceannas ar na suirbhéanna cianoibre le linn na paindéime, le tacaíocht ó Choimisiún Forbartha an Iarthair, ag bailiú eolais faoi na chéad léargais ar dhearcaí na bhfostaithe ar an aistriú mór agus tobann a bhain le bheith ag obair ón mbaile agus taobh amuigh den oifig. Tá tionchar imeartha ag a taighde ar pholasaí forbartha tallainne na Státseirbhíse agus ar straitéis náisiúnta cianoibre an Rialtais. Tá taithí fhairsing ag an Ollamh McCarthy ar chláir oiliúna forbartha ceannaireachta agus bainistíochta a dhearadh, a sheachadadh agus a mheas, ar cláir iad a bhfuil sé d'aidhm acu feabhas a chur ar inniúlacht bainistíochta, agus tá saineolas faoi leith aici ar fhorbairt bainistíochta sa tseirbhís phoiblí agus sa státseirbhís. Dúirt an tOllamh McCarthy: "Is mór an onóir dom a bheith ceaptha sa ról mar Dhéan Feidhmiúcháin agus táim ag tnúth le cur leis an rath atá ar na trí Scoil i gColáiste an Ghnó, an Bheartais Phoiblí & an Dlí in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe. Ag obair i gcomhar le foireann láidir comhghleacaithe sa Choláiste, leanfaimid orainn ag dul i ngleic le riachtanais athraitheacha an gheilleagair agus na sochaí chun oideachas den scoth a dhearadh agus a sholáthar sa ghnó, dlí agus bainistíocht óstáin agus leanfaimid orainn ag dul i ngleic le taighde ábhartha den scoth. Beidh rannpháirteachas le páirtithe leasmhara seachtracha agus tionchar ar pholasaithe mar phríomhthosaíocht ag an gColáiste ina phlean straitéiseach nua.” Ball cairte í an tOllamh McCarthy den Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), den American Academy of Management agus den Society for Industrial and Organisational Psychology, agus chaith sí tréimhse mar Leas-Chathaoirleach agus mar Chathaoirleach tofa d'Acadamh Bainistíochta na hÉireann (IAM). Rinneadh Comhalta den IAM di as a bhfuil déanta aici don acadamh sin. Ball creidiúnaithe den British Psychological Society (BPS) í agus tá deimhniú aici le raon leathan measúnuithe síciméadracha a riaradh, idir chumas cognaíoch, tástálacha pearsantachta agus spéiseanna gairmréime. Críoch
Monday, 27 January 2025
Professor Alma McCarthy is the first female academic to be appointed to the position Professor Alma McCarthy has been appointed Executive Dean at the College of Business, Public Policy and Law at University of Galway. The first female academic to hold the role at the head of the faculty, Professor McCarthy will take up the post on March 1, 2025, for a four-year term. The College comprises the School of Law, J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, and Shannon College of Hotel Management. Interim President of University of Galway, Professor Peter McHugh said: “I have no doubt that Professor Alma McCarthy will provide excellent leadership as Executive Dean of the College of Business, Public Policy and Law at our University, working with colleagues both here and beyond, promoting excellent and impactful education and research, in alignment with our strategic ambitions over the coming years. “I also thank Professor Geraint Howells, the outgoing Executive Dean, for his service to the University and leadership over the last four years. He has made an outstanding contribution to our development. All of us wish him the very best for the future.” Professor McCarthy has been Dean of J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics at University of Galway since 2021. She is Professor of Public Sector Management and her research interests include public sector leadership and human resource development, training, work-life balance, and remote working. Professor McCarthy spearheaded the remote working surveys during the pandemic, with the support of the Western Development Commission, generating the first and earliest insights into employee attitudes to the sudden and large-scale shift to working from home and out of the office. Her research has influenced national civil service talent development policy and the Government's national remote working strategy. Professor McCarthy has extensive experience in designing, delivering and evaluating leadership and management development training programmes aimed at improving managerial competence, with particular expertise in public and civil service management development. Professor McCarthy said: “I am honoured to be appointed to the Executive Dean role and look forward to building on the long-established success of the three Schools in the College of Business Public Policy & Law at University of Galway. Working with a strong team of colleagues in the College, we will continue to adapt to the changing needs of the economy and society to design and deliver excellent education in business, law and hotel management and continue to engage in relevant and impactful research. External stakeholder engagement and impact on policy will also be a key priority for the College in its new strategic plan.” Professor McCarthy is a Chartered Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), the American Academy of Management, the Society for Industrial and Organisational Psychology, and served as elected Vice-Chair and Chair of the Irish Academy of Management (IAM). She was conferred a Fellow of the IAM for her service to the academy. She is an accredited member of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and certified to administer a broad range of cognitive ability, personality and occupational interest psychometric assessments. Ends
Wednesday, 22 January 2025
Researchers at University of Galway have developed a way of bioprinting tissues that change shape as a result of cell-generated forces, in the same way that it happens in biological tissues during organ development. The breakthrough science focused on replicating heart tissues, bringing research closer to generating functional, bioprinted organs, which would have broad applications in disease modelling, drug screening and regenerative medicine. The research was led by a team at the School of Engineering and CÚRAM Research Ireland Centre for Medical Devices at University of Galway and has been published in the journal Advanced Functional Materials. Bioprinting technology uses living cells within specialised “bioink” materials – a substance or material which can support living cells, and due to its characteristics, it can aid cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation during maturation. The technology offers immense promise for creating lab-grown organs that closely resemble the structure of their human equivalent. However, bioprinting fully functional organs remains a significant hurdle. For instance, while bioprinted heart tissues can contract, their force of contraction is often considerably weaker than that of a healthy adult heart. Traditional bioprinting methods often aim to directly recreate the final anatomical shape of an organ, like the heart – therefore overlooking the crucial role of dynamic shape changes during natural embryonic development. For example, the heart begins as a simple tube that undergoes a series of bends and twists to form its mature four-chambered structure. These shape-morphing behaviours are essential for sculpting heart cell development and maturation. The University of Galway research team recognised this and developed a novel bioprinting technique that incorporates crucial shape-changing behaviours. Ankita Pramanick, lead author of the study and CÚRAM PhD Candidate at University of Galway, said: “Our work introduces a novel platform, using embedded bioprinting to bioprint tissues that undergo programmable and predictable 4D shape-morphing driven by cell-generated forces. Using this new process, we found that shape-morphing improved the structural and functional maturity of bioprinted heart tissues.” The research showed that cell-generated forces could guide the shape-morphing of bioprinted tissues, and it was possible to control the magnitude of the shape changes by modifying factors such as the initial print geometry and bioink stiffness. Morphing was found to sculpt cell alignment and enhance the contractile properties of the tissues. The research team also developed a computational model that could predict tissue shape-morphing behaviour. Professor Andrew Daly, Associate Professor in Biomedical Engineering and CÚRAM funded investigator and principal investigator on the project, said: “Our research shows that by allowing bioprinted heart tissues to undergo shape-morphing, they start to beat stronger and faster. The limited maturity of bioprinted tissues has been a major challenge in the field, so this was an exciting result for us. This allows us to create more advanced bioprinted heart tissue, with the ability to mature in a laboratory setting, better replicating adult human heart structure. We are excited to build on this shape-morphing approach in our ongoing European Research Council project, which is focused on developmentally-inspired bioprinting. “We are still a long way away from bioprinting functional tissue that could be implanted in humans, and future work will need to explore how we can scale our bioprinting approach to human-scale hearts. “We will need to integrate blood vessels to keep such large constructs alive in the lab, but ultimately, this breakthrough brings us closer to generating functional bioprinted organs, which would have broad applications in cardiovascular medicine.” The full study can be read in Advanced Functional Materials here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adfm.202414559#adfm202414559-bib-0004 Ends
Tuesday, 21 January 2025
University of Galway’s Farmer’s Yards finds a new home in rural life of Pennsylvania Farmer’s Yards, a social initiative developed at University of Galway for the farming community, has been launched in the United States. Pennsylvania Farm Link, a non-profit dedicated to forging connections that secure the future of farming in the state, has adopted the novel programme as part of its efforts to respond positively to mental health and wellbeing issues facing farmers, while creating opportunities to enhance social inclusion within the farming community, especially for older farmers. Farmer’s Yards was initiated and developed by Dr Shane Conway at University of Galway’s Rural Studies Centre, with support from the University’s Illuminate Programme. The establishment of the initiative in Pennsylvania has been funded by the Northeast Extension Risk Management Education Center located at the University of Delaware through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The first Farmer’s Yards gathering in the US took place at the 109th Pennsylvania Farm Show that took place from the 4th to 11th of January 2025 in Harrisburg, bringing together 32 farmers from across the state to network with each other and reflect on the challenges of farm life. Dr Conway said: “The recent implementation of Farmer’s Yards in Pennsylvania showcases its universal appeal and adaptability for farming communities across the world. Farmers aged 65 and older are now the fastest-growing demographic of the farming population globally and this initiative provides a vital social outlet for older farmers to stay actively involved in their local community in later life. This is important because for many, farming is more than a job - it’s their identity and way of life. “Farmer’s Yards offers a meaningful way for these farmers to stay connected and engaged with fellow farmers at a similar stage of life, fostering inclusion and addressing the uncertainties and fears that often accompany stepping back from active farming. Whether adapting to age-related physical limitations or navigating the transition of the farm to the next generation, this initiative ensures that older farmers continue to be respected and valued members of the farming community as they age, contributing positively to their mental health and overall wellbeing.” Darlene Livingston, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Farm Link said: “Farmer’s Yards in Pennsylvania is designed for our farming community’s particular interests, requirements and values, in accordance with then model developed at University of Galway. The important role that the initiative plays in ensuring active social participation and inclusion for farmers as they age was evident with so many farmers in their 70s and 80s taking part. Such engagement will help prevent them from being isolated and feeling excluded from society in later life.” The Farmer’s Yards provides farmers with a platform to maintain legitimate social connectedness, collegiality, and comradeship with their peers where they live, and in turn, combat social isolation and loneliness, something that is particularly beneficial for older farmers who have few other social outlets and may live alone. Pennsylvania Farm Link is planning further gatherings in rural communities across the state in the coming months as part of the adoption of the initiative. Farmers who take part are also exposed to a diverse set of farmer-focused knowledge transfer and exchange activities, such as succession planning, thereby helping them to successfully adapt through, and beyond, times of stress and distress. Ends
Tuesday, 21 January 2025
Two University of Galway Law students, Mamadou Saliou Bah and Salma Smith were recently awarded RDJ Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships, worth €5,000 and a work placement opportunity with leading Irish law firm RDJ. This year marks the first year of the RDJ Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship at University of Galway which support students from ethnic minorities and those who are under-represented in the legal profession in Ireland. RDJ has donated €100,000 over ten years for the scholarships, which are awarded to two University of Galway Law students each academic year. Mamadou and Salma were chosen as the scholarship recipients following a competitive selection and interview process based on exam results, a personal statement, a 1,000-word essay discussing the topic, “The Need for Diversifying the Legal Profession in Ireland”. The students were officially awarded their scholarships on campus by JP Gilmartin, Partner-in-Charge of RDJ's Galway office, Antoinette Vahey, Partner at RDJ, and Professor Martin Hogg, Dean of the University of Galway School of Law. Commending the RDJ Diversity Scholars on their achievement, JP Gilmartin, Partner-in-Charge of RDJ's Galway office, said: “I am delighted to meet this year’s recipients of the RDJ Diversity Scholarship today. Mamadou and Salma are both outstanding students and I look forward to following what I have no doubt will be successful career paths for them both.” Antoinette Vahey, Partner in RDJ’s Employment Group added: “Greater diversity and inclusion are among RDJ’s core values. This scholarship is in keeping with our commitment to creating a workplace that reflects the diversity of our clients and the communities we are part of.” Acknowledging the importance of encouraging diversity in the legal profession, Professor Martin Hogg, Dean of University of Galway’s School of Law, said: “RDJ’s support in creating these two scholarships is sincerely appreciated by the School of Law. The two worthy inaugural recipients, Mamadou and Salma, will benefit greatly from them, receiving transformative support and encouragement to pursue legal careers in an increasingly diverse legal profession.” Ends
Tuesday, 21 January 2025
More than 100 school pupils, teachers and parents from across Ireland attended University of Galway’s first ever Model United Nations conference to tackle issues of global importance. Organised by students in the University’s Literary and Debating Society, with support of the Societies Office and Sustainability Engagement Fund, the two-day event taught participants how to understand current political and human rights issues, debate and represent different positions, and articulate complex arguments. During the event, teams assumed the role of a country at the United Nations and were tasked with discussing global problems, simulating foreign relations with other countries, and resolving real-world international issues with the perspective, values and ideals of their assigned nation in mind. The conference was officially opened by Professor Siobhán Mullally, the UN Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons and Director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights at University of Galway, who offered insights into the role of the UN in the ever-changing world. Hugh Gately, Literary and Debating Society, said: “The event as a whole proved a roaring success, having provided students with a hugely enjoyable experience as well as improving their abilities in public speaking, debating, and problem resolution, and developing their awareness of the importance of foreign relations, international diplomacy and collaboration, and the issues facing our world today. Emboldened by displays across the conference indicative of impressive research, vast knowledge, and passionate participation, the participants left the conference at the end of the weekend agreeing on one thing for certain- they hope to return again next year.” Dr Richard Manton, Director of Sustainability at University of Galway, said: “As Ireland’s leading university for action on the UN Sustainable Development Goals, University of Galway was proud to host a Model United Nations. It was inspiring to hear school students debate global challenges such as clean water and sanitation for all, which comes under Sustainable Development Goal 6. I would like to thank all the University of Galway volunteer organisers, photographers, chairs and clerks who made the event such a success.” Ends
Monday, 20 January 2025
Professor Peter McHugh, Interim President of University of Galway, has been elected Fellow of the European Mechanics Society (EUROMECH). Professor McHugh is the first person from the Republic of Ireland to receive the prestigious Fellowship award. Professor McHugh was awarded the EUROMECH Solid Mechanics Fellowship for his outstanding scientific contributions to biomechanics, biomedical engineering and mechanical engineering and the development of biomedical engineering research and education programmes. By honouring him in such a way, the EUROMECH Council recognises eminent scientific contributions to the advancement of Solid Mechanics. The prestigious accolade is awarded to just three Fellows every three years, and there currently are only 20 EUROMECH Solid Mechanics Fellows. The European Mechanics Society will officially confer Fellowship on Professor McHugh at the 12th European Solid Mechanics Conference, which takes place in Lyon, France in July. Professor McHugh said: “I am delighted to become a Fellow of the European Mechanics Society. It is an enormous honour to have my contribution to research and scholarship, and its application in technological development and education, recognised in this way. I look forward to supporting the work of the Council and to continue to work with colleagues from across Europe and beyond to identify and promote new research directions.” Originally from Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo, Professor McHugh is an internationally recognised research leader in biomedical engineering and his research is focused on fundamental developments and applications of computational and experimental methods in biomechanics, tissue mechanics and medical implants and devices. He has been a pioneer in the development of biomedical engineering research and education in Ireland and internationally. Professor McHugh joined the University in 1991 and was appointed as the first Established Professor of Biomedical Engineering in 2007. He has served as Dean of College of Engineering and Informatics, Head of School of Engineering, and as Deputy President and Registrar of the University, and was appointed as Interim President of University of Galway in September 2024. The European Mechanics Society is an international scientific organisation whose objective is to engage in all activities to promote the development of mechanics as a branch of science and engineering, ranging from fundamental research on the behaviour of solids and fluids to applied research in engineering. The status of Fellow of EUROMECH is awarded to members of the Mechanics community who have contributed significantly to the advancement of mechanics and related fields. This may be through their original research and publications, or their innovative contributions in the application of mechanics and technological developments, or though their distinguished contribution to the discipline in other ways. Ends
Monday, 6 January 2025
Twenty-two promising University of Galway students have been awarded bursaries by Connacht GAA. The awards are made to high-achieving students who play for the University and their clubs in Galway, Roscommon and Mayo and who show potential in ladies’ football, camogie, men’s football, hurling and dual sports. The annual Connacht GAA bursary scheme has been in place for 15 years providing financial assistance to students who display potential and commitment to Gaelic games as active members of the association and their higher education club. Professor Peter McHugh, Interim President of University of Galway, said: “University of Galway is committed to excellence in research, education and the student experience. A great example of our commitment to the student experience is through facilitating and nurturing our students’ potential in Gaelic games. We commend these students for their dedication in their chosen sport while balancing it with their third level studies and we wish them every success in their university and sporting lives.” The University has been in partnership with Connacht GAA since 2021, including the University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome, the indoor Gaelic games pitch at Connacht’s Centre of Excellence in Bekan, Co Mayo, the largest facility of its type in the world. Des Ryan, Director of Sport and Physical Wellbeing, University of Galway, said: “We are very proud of our twenty-two students who have received the 2025 bursaries. The awards reflect the potential of these Connacht GAA players currently studying at University of Galway and exceling in Gaelic games. The University’s partnership with Connacht GAA is strong and this is one of the many contributions Connacht GAA make to the third level Gaelic Games community. “The bursary will be very beneficial to our students who are members of the University Gaelic games clubs and their home community clubs. It can be challenging for students financially so this support from Connacht GAA is very welcomed. It will help our students balance their studies, work and sporting life.” The Connacht GAA bursaries have been unveiled as University of Galway plans to host the prestigious Electric Ireland Higher Education GAA and Camogie Championship Finals for 2025. The finals take place at the Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence and the University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome from February 8th to 15th. Cathal Cregg, Connacht GAA Council Games manager, said: “The purpose of this bursary scheme is to honour young people who have excelled in the GAA. This year we have selected 62 outstanding people, all of whom will contribute to the GAA club and life in their colleges. Not just players but also young administrators who are involved in their college as team trainers and club officers are also beneficiaries in the scheme.” The University of Galway bursary recipients are: Caitlin Boyle, LGFA, Kilkerrin/Clonberne, Galway Eoin Colleran, Football, Padraig Pearses, Roscommon Niall Collins, Hurling, Cappatagle, Galway Diarmuid Davoren, Hurling, Moycullen, Galway Cathal Donoghue, Football, Oughterard, Galway Shea Fallon, Dual, Moylough, Galway Luke Feeney, Football, Ballina Stephenites, Mayo Jack Keane, Football, Hollymount/Carramore, Mayo Aoife Kelly, Camogie, Salthill/Knocknacarra, Galway Siofra Kelly, Dual, Turloughmore, Galway Cullen Killeen, Hurling, Loughrea, Galway Freya Leenane, Camogie, Oranmore Maree, Galway John MacMonagle, Football, Castlebar Mitchels, Mayo Kayla Madden, Camogie, Athenry, Galway Ava McDonnell, LGFA, St Brigids, Mayo Michael Moran, Dual, St Dominics, Roscommon Darragh Neary, Dual, Castlegar/St James, Galway Leana Nic Dhonncha, Camogie, Liam Mellows, Galway Ben O’Donovan, Hurling, Gort, Galway Jack O’Neill, Football, St James’, Galway Éabha O’Riordan, LGFA, Claregalway, Galway Joshua Ryan, Hurling, Clarinbridge HC, Galway A record number of 62 promising young Connacht GAA players and administrators have been included in the annual bursary scheme for this year, with students from all five counties of the province. Ends
Tuesday, 14 January 2025
University of Galway has announced the appointment of Dr Finn Krewer as the inaugural holder of the Greally Lectureship in Applied Clinical Data Analytics. The creation of the lectureship and Dr Krewer’s appointment is landmark initiative in integrating advanced clinical data analysis with cutting-edge research in artificial intelligence and healthcare. The Greally Lectureship, endowed on behalf of University graduates Professor John F. and Dr Marie Greally, represents a collaboration between the University’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences and the Insight Research Ireland Centre for Data Analytics and confirms ambition to advance clinical research through data-driven innovation. Professor Peter McHugh, Interim President of University of Galway, said: “The creation of the Greally Lectureship and Dr Finn Krewer’s appointment is a significant step in advancing University of Galway’s leadership in Applied Clinical Data Analytics. With the support of Professor John F. and Dr Marie Greally, this lectureship underscores our ambition to harness data-driven innovation to tackle complex healthcare challenges. Dr Krewer’s expertise will play a vital role in realising our vision of transforming clinical research and healthcare delivery through cutting-edge analytics and artificial intelligence.” Dr Marie Greally said: “We are delighted that Dr Krewer will be the first recipient of the lectureship, which we are privileged to have been able to endow as a symbol of the value and excitement of incorporating research into medical practice. We wish him every success and hope it acts as an inspiration to the next generation of students.” Professor John F Greally said: “Dr Krewer has an extraordinary record of accomplishment already in his career. We look forward to his continued success, applying his skills to clinical data with the goal of improving health care.” Dr Krewer is a graduate of University of Galway and completed his PhD in Engineering in 2017 on bio-inspired reconfigurable computing. His research seamlessly combined biological neuron models with hardware accelerators, earning him numerous university and national scholarships. Since then, Dr Krewer has built a distinguished career, publishing several research papers and gaining industry experience in software development and data analysis. In 2023, Dr Krewer joined University of Galway as a Research Fellow, focusing on applied machine learning techniques for biosignal classification. His current work, supported by a Health Research Board Secondary Data Analysis Project grant, investigates traditional and novel risk factors for stroke in individuals with kidney failure in Ireland. As part of his new role under the Greally Lectureship, Dr Krewer will lead advanced teaching in data analytics and pursue a programme of research addressing clinical data analytics and the applications of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Professor Martin O’Donnell, Executive Dean of the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at University of Galway, said: "Dr Krewer brings exceptional expertise in clinical data analytics and artificial intelligence, which will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare research. His work will be instrumental in advancing our plans to extend a multi-platform MSc in Applied Clinical Data Analytics, fostering innovations in clinical data analytics and developing our Academic Health Analytic infrastructure. These initiatives aim to bridge traditional and emerging data analysis methods, fostering new insights into mechanisms of disease and advancing population health. We are extremely grateful to Professor John F. and Dr Marie Greally for their generosity.” Ends
Monday, 13 January 2025
Aquila Bioscience developing pathogen decontamination technology for safer space exploration University of Galway spin-out Aquila Bioscience is collaborating with the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop a nature-inspired pathogen decontamination technology for safer space exploration. Traditional antimicrobial measures, while effective on Earth, present significant limitations in space due to potential toxicity, pathogen resistance, and long-term stability concerns. The unique conditions of spaceflight elevate the risk of infectious diseases by altering both human and microbial physiology. Aquila Bioscience’s approach to pathogen decontamination is informed by an extensive review of International Space Station microbiome research, which identified key pathogens posing health risks in confined space environments. These include viruses, bacteria and fungi that cause respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary and skin infections. Professor Lokesh Joshi, Founder of Aquila Bioscience and Stokes Professor of Glycosciences at University of Galway, said: “Aquila Bioscience is committed to addressing the critical challenges of pathogen exposure in space. Our Pathogen Capturing Technology aligns with the principles of safety, sustainability and innovation that are essential for the future of space exploration. We are honoured to have the European Space Agency’s support as we push the boundaries of innovation. This collaboration underscores the importance of developing sustainable, non-toxic and effective solutions for challenges associated with space exploration.” Aquila Bioscience is pioneering a groundbreaking solution to enhance health and safety protocols for space missions called Pathogen Capturing Technology (PCT). Unlike traditional antimicrobials that may lead to pathogen mutations, sterilisation tolerance, or antimicrobial resistance (AMR), Aquila Biosciences technology provides a safe, effective and eco-friendly alternative that is stable over long periods as space agencies and commercial spaceflight companies strive to ensure the health and safety of their crews. Professor Joshi said: “The deployment of our pathogen control technology in space missions has the potential to revolutionise decontamination protocols, enhancing the safety and well-being of astronauts while supporting sustainable and responsible space exploration.” Aquila Bioscience’s innovative technology employs a selection of natural protein-carbohydrate molecules on a biodegradable matric that act as molecular-Velcro, to capture and remove harmful pathogens without damaging human skin or surfaces. The Pathogen Capturing Technology’s biodegradable composition also addresses critical spaceflight constraints such as payload weight and waste management, ensuring its suitability for long-duration missions. The solution has been inspired by the knowledge of how nature protects humans from germs encountered on a regular basis, offering a non-toxic alternative to conventional decontamination agents like alcohol, bleach, and ammonium compounds, which are often unsuitable for skin use due to their harshness and potential toxicity. The project is sponsored by the European Space Agency (ESA) under ESA Initial Support for Innovation (EISI) activities, funded through the Discovery Programme. Ends
Tuesday, 7 January 2025
Youth Academy expands and opens more doors for young people to experience university life and engaging learning with researchers and academics University of Galway’s Youth Academy, an outreach programme for high ability students in primary and post-primary school, is launching a new series of courses for spring 2025. The acclaimed initiative for young people offers a unique opportunity for them to explore their passions, develop new skills and experience university life with like-minded pupils. Since its inception in 2012, Youth Academy has welcomed more than 7,000 young people to the campus, inspiring them through innovative, engaging and hands-on activities, and opening their minds to future academic and career possibilities. In spring 2025, the programme will host 23 immersive courses, including 10 new courses, all of which are designed for curious and ambitious young minds, covering science, engineering, coding, languages, philosophy, art, chess and more. The 10 new courses cover cutting-edge subjects like: Biomedical Science, where students will learn about slimy biomaterials and think like a forensic scientist Creative Technologies, where art, artificial intelligence and creativity combine Coastal Engineering, where participants will learn to protect and harness our marine environment, with hands-on activities and real-world solutions These six-week courses for fourth, fifth and sixth-class primary school students and first, second and third-year post-primary school students, will be held on Saturday mornings from February 8th, delivered by expert researchers and educators who are committed to fostering a friendly, inclusive, and supportive learning environment. Parent Tom Wainwright said: “I like how Youth Academy encourages children to be comfortable making mistakes as part of the learning process and gives them a wonderful opportunity to better understand what university life involves. My son came home telling me about the friends he had made and about courses and career paths we didn’t even know existed.” Dr Enda O’Connell, Outreach Development Officer managing Youth Academy operations in the Student Recruitment and Outreach Office at University of Galway, said: “We are very excited to present such a diverse range of engaging and impactful courses to inspire young people to try out new subjects, get a taste of campus life and make new friends with similar interests.” Applications are open from Friday January 10th until Thursday January 16th at https://www.universityofgalway.ie/youthacademy/ Eligibility is based on achievement in a student’s most recent English, Maths or Irish standardised test carried out in either primary or secondary school, or on an educational psychologist’s report demonstrating high ability. Through a partnership with Merit Medical, scholarships are provided to 25% of students to attend free of charge, based on economic circumstances. Ends
Monday, 6 January 2025
University of Galway is to host the prestigious Electric Ireland Higher Education GAA and Camogie Championship Finals for 2025. The finals will take place at the Connacht GAA Centre and the University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome in Bekan, Co Mayo from February 8th to 15th. More than 25 fixtures to be played across the three Gaelic Games codes over the course of seven days. With 13 teams competing across all divisions, University of Galway will be hoping to bring home silverware across all three codes. University of Galway Interim President Professor Peter McHugh said: “These competitions showcase the best of the young GAA talent in the country and we are delighted to host all three finals this year. The very best of luck to all the participants this year and I would encourage all football, hurling and camogie fans to come to the West of Ireland to support their teams.” University of Galway Camogie Club is fielding three teams for the first time in its history. The intermediate and junior teams have secured wins in the first round of their championships, the Uí Mhaolagáin Cup and the Ashling Murphy Cup. The senior team returns to topflight camogie for the first time since 2017 and will be aiming to make an impression in the Ashbourne Cup and break their 30-year spell. University of Galway Hurling Club last brought the Fitzgibbon Cup to Galway in 2010, the 10th time they won the tournament, with the University of Galway Football Club hoping to bring the Sigerson Cup back to Galway and make it 24 wins, having last lifted the trophy in 2022. Professor Ciara Meehan, Dean of Students at University of Galway, said: “We are extremely proud of our Gaelic games heritage and are thrilled to be hosting the Electric Ireland Higher Education GAA and Camogie Championship Finals at the Connacht GAA Centre for Excellence and the University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome. The finals promise to be a great week of sport involving inter county players from all over the country and we hope to provide a fantastic occasion for all involved.” Director of Sport at the University of Galway, Des Ryan, said: “We are delighted to be hosting these three prestigious sporting competitions. Openness is one of the University of Galway's values and I am delighted we can live this value by welcoming the many teams to University of Galway, with a 'Céad Míle Fáilte'. We have a strong Gaelic games heritage in the University and I am looking to see this grow by competing, hosting, enjoying, educating and supporting Gaelic games in the west of Ireland." John Prenty, Connacht GAA Secretary, said: “Connacht GAA are delighted to join University of Galway to be hosts once again for third level GAA championships. In recent years we have hosted third level football championship finals 2017, the Higher Education Championship Ladies football weekend in 2023 and the Camogie weekend in 2024. It is wonderful to see the stars of the future in action at third level being coached and managed by students in many cases. It is the essence of what we in the GAA like to see occur at third level, creating the leaders of the future. “Congratulations to the University of Galway GAA encompassing hurling, football, ladies Gaelic football and camogie in the great work that is being carried out as a leader in third level GAA. Many thanks to all those in the sports department and in the college administration for their support. The great alliance of Connacht GAA and the University in the sponsorship of the world-famous University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome is a sign of the great collaboration between two organisations that are heavily invested in the youth of our country. On behalf of all in Connacht GAA we look forward to a week of great action in February.” For all info see www.gaa.ie and www.camogie.ie and stay tuned for updates by following @Camogie_OG, @camogie, @ElectricIreland and through using #FirstClassRivals. Ends
Monday, 6 January 2025
Reáchtálfaidh Ollscoil na Gaillimhe Cluichí Ceannais Ardoideachais CLG agus Camógaíochta Electric Ireland, 2025. Beidh na cluichí ceannais ar siúl in Ionad CLG Chonnacht agus i nDóm Aeir CLG Chonnacht agus Ollscoil na Gaillimhe i mBéacán, Co. Mhaigh Eo ón 8 go dtí an 15 Feabhra. Imreofar níos mó ná 25 cluiche peile, iománaíochta agus camógaíochta thar thréimhse seacht lá. Agus 13 fhoireann againn san iomaíocht idir na rannóga go léir, is cinnte go mbeidh Ollscoil na Gaillimhe ag súil le coirn a chrochadh leo sna trí spórt. Dúirt Uachtarán Eatramhach Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, an tOllamh Peter McHugh: “Feictear na himreoirí óga CLG is fearr sa tír ag na comórtais seo agus tá lúcháir orainn na trí chluiche ceannais a reáchtáil i mbliana. Guím gach rath ar na himreoirí ar fad i mbliana agus mholfainn dóibh siúd ar fad ar spéis leo peil, iomáint agus camógaíocht teacht go hIarthar na hÉireann chun tacú lena gcuid foirne.” Tá Club Camógaíochta Ollscoil na Gaillimhe ag cur trí fhoireann chun páirce den chéad uair riamh. Tá an bua faighte cheana féin ag na foirne idirmheánacha agus sóisir sa chéad bhabhta dá gcomórtais chraoibhe, Corn Uí Mhaolagáin agus Corn Ashling Murphy. Beidh an fhoireann sinsir ag imirt ag an leibhéal is airde camógaíochta den chéad uair ó 2017 agus beidh siad ar a ndícheall Corn Ashbourne a bhuachan agus deireadh a chur leis an seal 30 bliain atá caite acu gan bhua. Ba sa bhliain 2010 go deireadh a thug Club Iomána Ollscoil na Gaillimhe Corn Mhic Giobúin go Gaillimh, an 10ú huair a bhuaigh siad an comórtas; agus tá súil ag Cumann Peile Ollscoil na Gaillimhe Corn Sigerson a thabhairt ar ais go Gaillimh don 24ú huair, agus an corn buaite acu go deireadh sa bhliain 2022. Bhí an méid seo a leanas le rá ag an Ollamh Ciara Meehan, Déan na Mac Léinn in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe: “Táimid thar a bheith bródúil as ár dtraidisiún sna cluichí Gaelacha agus tá áthas orainn Cluichí Ceannais Ardoideachais CLG agus Camógaíochta Electric Ireland a eagrú in Ionad Sárchaighdeáin CLG Chonnacht agus i nDóm Aeir CLG Chonnacht agus Ollscoil na Gaillimhe. Is cinnte gur seachtain iontach spóirt a bheidh sna cluichí ceannais ina mbeidh imreoirí idirchontae as gach cearn den tír páirteach, agus tá súil againn ócáid iontach a chur ar fáil do gach duine a bheidh i láthair.” Dúirt Stiúrthóir Spóirt Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, Des Ryan: “Tá an-áthas orainn na trí chomórtas spóirt mór le rá seo a reáchtáil. Tá an oscailteacht ar cheann de luachanna Ollscoil na Gaillimhe agus tá an-áthas orm gur féidir linn an luach seo a bhaint amach trí na céadta míle fáilte a chur roimh na foirne ar fad go hOllscoil na Gaillimhe. Tá oidhreacht láidir cluichí Gaelacha againn san Ollscoil agus ba mhaith liom borradh a fheiceáil ag teacht faoin réimse seo, tarlóidh sé sin trí bheith san iomaíocht, comórtais a reáchtáil, sult a bhaint as na spóirt, oideachas a chur ar dhaoine agus tacú le cluichí Gaelacha in iarthar na hÉireann.” Dúirt John Prenty, Rúnaí CLG Chonnacht: “Tá an-áthas ar CLG Chonnacht a bheith ag obair i gcomhpháirt le hOllscoil na Gaillimhe in eagrú na gcraobhchomórtas CLG don tríú leibhéal. D'eagraíomar na cluichí ceannais peile tríú leibhéal in 2017, deireadh seachtaine Pheil na mBan sa Chraobh Ardoideachais in 2023 agus deireadh seachtaine na Camógaíochta in 2024. Is iontach an rud é laochra na todhchaí a fheiceáil ar an bpáirc ag an tríú leibhéal agus iad á dtraenáil agus á mbainistiú ag mic léinn i mórán cásanna. Is é seo an rud is maith linne sa CLG a fheiceáil ag tarlú ag an tríú leibhéal, ceannairí na todhchaí á gcruthú. “Comhghairdeas le CLG Ollscoil na Gaillimhe as iománaíocht, peil, peil na mban agus camógaíocht a chuimsiú san obair iontach atá ar siúl acu agus iad ag feidhmiú mar cheannaire CLG ag an tríú leibhéal. Míle buíochas le gach éinne sa roinn spóirt agus in oifigí riaracháin na hollscoile as a dtacaíocht. Is léiriú ar an gcomhoibriú breá idir an dá eagraíocht atá go mór ar son óige na tíre an chomhpháirtíocht iontach idir CLG Chonnacht agus an Ollscoil san urraíocht ar Dhóm Aeir CLG Chonnacht agus Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, ionad a bhfuil clú domhanda air. Thar ceann gach duine in CLG Chonnacht, táimid ag tnúth le seachtain iontach spóirt i Feabhra.” Tá gach eolas ar fáil ar www.gaa.ie agus www.camogie.ie agus beidh na scéalta is déanaí le fáil @Camogie_OG, @camogie, @ElectricIreland agus trí leas a bhaint as #FirstClassRivals. Críoch
Tuesday, 4 February 2025
A female entrepreneurship programme developed at University of Galway’s IdeasLab is to expand nationwide at five other higher education institutions following a special funding award from the Higher Education Authority (HEA). The CreateHER programme, which is designed to empower female undergraduate students to become entrepreneurs, has been granted €420,400 by the HEA under its call for proposals for Entrepreneurial Education Initiatives. The funding will see CreateHER expand its impact and opportunities for female entrepreneurship in Ireland by partnering with the University of Limerick, Technological University Dublin, Southeast Technological University, Munster Technological University, and Atlantic Technological University. CreateHER addresses the critical underrepresentation of women in entrepreneurship. More than 50 women have completed the programme at University of Galway, with many progressing a business idea to pre-incubator and innovation programmes. The programme’s national rollout is planned for the 2025-26 academic year. Professor Becky Whay, Interim Deputy President and Registrar University of Galway, said: “At University of Galway, we are dedicated to investing in our students, not only by enhancing the skills and scholarship necessary for growth in our region but also ensuring that our students are well-equipped to lead the charge in driving transformative change on a national scale. The CreateHER programme exemplifies our commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem that champions equality, diversity, and inclusion and its expansion marks a significant step in fostering a new generation of women entrepreneurs.” Dr Natalie Walsh, Director of Entrepreneurial Development at University of Galway, said: "The CreateHER programme has been a transformative initiative for female entrepreneurship at University of Galway. With this national rollout, we are excited to extend its impact, empowering young women across Ireland to lead the way in innovation and business. This collaboration with our partner institutions is a testament to the power of our shared vision across the higher education sector to drive meaningful change for future entrepreneurs and innovators." The programme is a dynamic six-week course dedicated to nurturing creativity, confidence, innovation, and personal branding. Throughout the year, a series of local and national events will provide opportunities for participants to showcase their entrepreneurial journeys and connect with an expansive network of mentors, with participants from all partner institutions coming together to foster collaboration and peer learning. One of the most significant features of CreateHER is the development of "Career Close-Ups" - an immersive experience that takes participants behind the scenes of leading companies in various sectors including Medtech, IT, finance, and PR. During these shadowing experiences, participants connect with people from CEOs to recent graduates, getting a glimpse into the daily rhythm of corporate life. By experiencing different roles first-hand and building meaningful connections across all levels of the organisation, participants gain invaluable insights that help shape their future career paths. For some, these connections may lead to placements or internships, or open their eyes to future career paths they had not previously considered. This real-world exposure gives CreateHER participants an advantage as they prepare to launch their careers as entrepreneurs or intrapreneurs, armed with both practical knowledge and a strong professional network. In 2024 career close up partners included Diligent, Liberty IT, Aerogen, Galway Chamber, Yourells, Éire Composites and SAP. For more information about CreateHER and its upcoming national rollout, please visit www.universityofgalway.ie/ideaslab. Ends
Wednesday, 31 January 2024
Legal experts from around the world are to take part in a conference at University of Galway which aims to explore the options for conducting trials for terrorism and organised crime in Ireland. The two-day event - entitled Replacing the Offences Against the State Acts: The challenge of jury trials for terrorism and organised crime - will hear from legal academics and leading barristers from Ireland, the US, Australia and the UK. It is being hosted by University of Galway’s School of Law in association with Birmingham Law School on February 16th and 17th. Professor Donncha O’Connell, who was member of the Independent Review Group on the Offences Against the State Acts chaired by retired Court of Appeal Judge Michael Peart, which reported in June 2023, said: “Following on from the work of the Review Group – which published a majority and minority report but was unanimous in recommending repeal and replacement of the Offences Against the State Acts – this conference aims to explore the options open to Ireland when conducting trials for terrorism and organised crime, bearing in mind the priority attached to the right to trial by jury under the Irish Constitution. “We hope to draw on the comparative expertise of academics and practitioners and relevant international standards in considering the likely shape of legislation to replace the Offences Against the State Acts at some stage in the future.” The conference will have a keynote address from Professor Fionnuala Ní Aoláin MRIA KC, Regents Professor and Robina Chair in Law, Public Policy & Society at the University of Minnesota and Professor of Law at Queen’s University Belfast. Professor Ní Aoláin, who has just completed her mandate as UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights and Counter-Terrorism, is a member of the International Commission of Jurists and was made an honorary King’s Counsel in recognition of her outstanding work. The conference will also hear from leading criminal barristers in Ireland and Scotland - Brendan Grehan SC, Alice Harrison BL and Ronnie Renucci KC - in a session focused on practitioner perspectives chaired by Supreme Court judge, Ms Justice Iseult O’Malley. Mr Grehan - a graduate of University of Galway - has defended and prosecuted in the Special Criminal Court, most recently acting as defence counsel for Gerard Hutch who was acquitted of murder following the notorious Regency Hotel gun attack in 2016. Ends
Tuesday, 30 January 2024
Professor Fidelma Dunne appointed Interim Director and John Kilmartin as Adjunct Professor World-leading research academic Professor Fidelma Dunne has been appointed Interim Director of the Institute for Clinical Trials at University of Galway. Professor Dunne has an extensive background in clinical trial management and is ranked number 1 in Ireland and number 6 in the world for her research into gestational diabetes. The University has also announced John Kilmartin, former Vice-President of Regulatory Affairs at Medtronic and an independent medtech regulatory expert, joins the Institute for Clinical Trials as Adjunct Professor. Mr Kilmartin has more than 30 years’ experience in the medtech industry, with a particular focus on the emerging regulatory and clinical frameworks in Europe. Professor Martin O’Donnell, Dean of the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences and Consultant Geriatrician at Saolta University Health Care Group, said: “We are honoured to have both Professor Fidelma Dunne and Mr John Kilmartin join the Institute for Clinical Trials. Their combined expertise in clinical trials, medical research and regulatory affairs will significantly contribute to our mission of advancing impactful clinical research. They will help to advance our clinical research goals and will make meaningful contributions to healthcare outcomes.” Professor Dunne said: “Clinical trials in new medicines and devices are vital to improving the health of people living in Ireland and worldwide. Improving health also has economic and societal benefits. Engaging in clinical trials allows patients in Ireland to receive new medicines and devices early. We have a track record of designing and delivering impactful clinical trials at University of Galway and I am delighted to lead the Institute for Clinical Trials which will have a pivotal role in further enhancing the clinical research landscape in Ireland.” Mr Kilmartin said: “The medtech industry is of huge importance to Ireland and Europe for the benefit of our patients, health systems and society. I believe that the Institute for Clinical Trials at University of Galway can play a key role in helping to support innovation in medtech by strategically targeting barriers within the Irish ecosystem. It aims to strengthen and further promote growth in the medtech sector, expand treatment options for patients and ultimately contribute to the advancement of healthcare on a broader scale." Bios Professor Fidelma Dunne is the immediate past President of the International Association Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Groups and President of the Irish Endocrine Society (2021-2024). Professor Dunne has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing research and improving outcomes in the critical area of diabetes and pregnancy. Her research interests, focused on diabetes and pregnancy, have resulted in an impressive portfolio of over 240 peer-reviewed publications, 12,000 citations, and significant grant funding. Professor Dunne was honoured with the Jorgen Pedersen award in 2021 for her exceptional work in Diabetes in Pregnancy. She is the Principal Investigator of the EMERGE randomised controlled trial, funded by the Health Research Board, with ground-breaking results published in the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) in October 2023 which showed that the drug metformin provided a safe and effective way to treat gestational diabetes. John Kilmartin has a wealth of experience and knowledge in the medtech industry, having led global regulatory teams in the development and implementation of clinical and regulatory strategies for various medical devices and drug/device combination products. He is actively involved with various medtech industry associations, including MedTech Europe and the Irish MedTech Association (IMA), where he served as the Chair of the IMA Regulatory Steering Committee for a number of years. Mr Kilmartin has a strong focus on the evolving regulatory and clinical frameworks around the world, having collaborated with regulatory agencies such as FDA, European Notified Bodies, Competent authorities and other international regulators. Mr Kilmartin’s areas of interest and focus include the development of the next generation of Regulatory and Clinical Affairs professionals, creating co-operative links between third-level institutions, the medtech industry, regulatory authorities, and government agencies to ensure that the medtech ecosystem continues to thrive in Ireland and in Europe. Ends
Tuesday, 30 January 2024
University of Galway’s 2024 Postgraduate Open Day will focus on opportunities to improve employability and increase earning potential with a comprehensive insight of study options on offer. The Postgraduate Open Day will take place on Tuesday February 6, 2024 from 12pm-3pm in the Bailey Allen Hall. The event will showcase the suite of full-time and part-time postgraduate programmes available at the University, including taught and research masters, as well as doctoral research options. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the latest employability and industry trends, scholarship and funding opportunities, as well as tips on making a successful application. As part of University of Galway’s strategic focus on recognising excellence and success, all EU postgraduate students with a first class honours in their undergraduate degree are eligible to apply for a €1,500 scholarship towards their taught Masters at the University in 2024. Sarah Geraghty, Director of Student Recruitment and Outreach at University of Galway, said: “A postgraduate qualification is an investment in your career. We especially encourage visitors to explore the opportunities to improve their employability by expanding their knowledge, skills and expertise in their field. Insights from industry continuously demonstrate the significant financial value of a postgraduate qualification in the starting salary after graduation, and importantly it’s a benefit that can be realised right throughout the lifetime of a career.” University of Galway introduces new innovative postgraduate programmes annually, many of which are unique offerings and designed to meet industry needs and market-demand. Recently announced new programmes include MSc Fintech (Economics and Financial Technology) welcoming applications from graduates of business, economics and finance degrees, or computer science and engineering graduates with a background in economics, and a relaunch of the MSc (Management and Sustainability) designed to shape future business leaders who will drive positive change, contribute to responsible business practices, and make a lasting impact on the world. The School of Law has launched a new LLM in Criminology, Criminal Justice and Human Rights leading to possibilities in national, regional and international criminal justice agencies, NGOs, inter-governmental organisations and courts. The upcoming event is also an opportunity to explore the expanding range of flexible, part-time and online learning programmes designed for learners who are returning to study, pivoting their career to a new industry to upskilling in their current job. Bookings are now open for the event and visitors and book their place at https://universityofgalway.ie/choose-postgrad/ Ends
Tuesday, 30 January 2024
Díreofar ar dheiseanna chun infhostaitheacht a fheabhsú agus a chuirfidh ar chumas an fhostaí tuilleadh airgid a dhéanamh ag Lá Oscailte Iarchéime 2024 Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, áit a mbeidh léargas cuimsitheach ar na roghanna staidéir atá á dtairiscint. Beidh an Lá Oscailte Iarchéime ar siúl i Halla Bailey Allen Dé Máirt, an 6 Feabhra 2024 ó 12pm-3pm. Beidh eolas le fáil faoi na cláir iarchéime lánaimseartha agus pháirtaimseartha atá á dtairiscint ag an Ollscoil, lena n-áirítear máistreachtaí múinte agus taighde, chomh maith le roghanna taighde dochtúireachta. Tabharfar deis do chuairteoirí iniúchadh a dhéanamh ar na treochtaí fostaíochta agus tionscail is déanaí, ar dheiseanna scoláireachta agus maoinithe, chomh maith le comhairle a fháil faoin gcaoi iarratas rathúil a dhéanamh. Mar chuid d’fhócas straitéiseach Ollscoil na Gaillimhe maidir le haitheantas a thabhairt don tsárfheidhmíocht agus do rathúlacht, tá gach mac léinn iarchéime de chuid an AE a bhfuil céadonóracha bainte amach aige nó aici ina f(h)ochéim i dteideal cur isteach ar scoláireacht €1,500 i dtreo cúrsa Máistreachta múinte san Ollscoil in 2024. Bhí an méid seo le rá ag Sarah Geraghty, Stiúrthóir Earcaíochta Mac Léinn agus For-rochtana in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe: “Is infheistíocht i do ghairm bheatha í cáilíocht iarchéime. Molaimid do chuairteoirí iad féin a chur ar an eolas faoi na deiseanna atá ann iad féin a dhéanamh níos infhostaithe trí chur lena gcuid scileanna agus saineolais ina réimse oibre féin. Tagann fianaise ón saol oibre go leanúnach gurbh fhiú go mór don fhostaí cáilíocht iarchéime a bheith aige nó aici nuair atá an tuarastal tosaigh á ríomh i ndiaidh na céime, agus leantar leis an mbuntáiste sin i rith shaol gairmiúil an fhostaí.” Cuireann Ollscoil na Gaillimhe tús le cláir iarchéime nuálaíocha gach bliain, ar cláir foghlama uathúla go leor acu agus iad deartha go sainiúil chun freastal ar riachtanais an ionaid oibre agus ar a bhfuil á éileamh ag an margadh. I measc na gclár nua atá fógartha le déanaí tá an MSc Teicneolaíocht Airgeadais (Eacnamaíocht agus Teicneolaíocht Airgeadais) a bheadh feiliúnach dóibh siúd a bhfuil céim acu i ngnó, eacnamaíocht nó airgeadas, nó céimithe ríomheolaíochta nó innealtóireachta a bhfuil cúlra san eacnamaíocht acu, agus tá an MSc (Bainistíocht agus Inbhuanaitheacht) seolta an athuair, ar clár é a bhfuil sé d’aidhm aige ceannairí gnó a sholáthar a spreagfaidh athruithe chun feabhais, a chuirfidh le cleachtais ghnó fhreagracha agus a mbeidh tionchar buan acu ar an domhan. Tá LLM nua seolta ag Scoil an Dlí sa Choireolaíocht, sa Cheartas Coiriúil agus i gCearta an Duine as a dtiocfaidh féidearthachtaí i ngníomhaireachtaí ceartais choiriúil ag an leibhéal náisiúnta, réigiúnach agus idirnáisiúnta, chomh maith le heagraíochtaí neamhrialtasacha, eagraíochtaí idir-rialtasacha agus sna cúirteanna dlí. Deis atá sa lá oscailte seo chomh maith tuilleadh a fhoghlaim faoin raon clár solúbtha, páirtaimseartha agus ar líne a dearadh d’fhoghlaimeoirí atá ag filleadh ar an staidéar nó ag féachaint le hathrú gairme nó le scileanna breise a shealbhú a rachaidh chun tairbhe leo ina bpost reatha. Is féidir leo siúd ar spéis leo freastal ar an imeacht seo áirithint a dhéanamh anois ag https://universityofgalway.ie/choose-postgrad/ Críoch
Monday, 29 January 2024
One of the world’s foremost experts on genocide, Professor William Schabas, will deliver a public lecture at the University on how the international legal system addresses racism and racial discrimination. The lecture will be given in the Aula Maxima, in the Quadrangle, on Wednesday January 31, at 4pm. Professor Schabas is the former director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights at University of Galway. He is the author of numerous works on human rights, international crimes and genocide and he is currently based at Middlesex University. Professor Schabas has appeared before the International Court of Justice and was formerly appointed to a UN commission of inquiry on Gaza. Organised by the Irish Centre for Human Rights in the School of Law, the lecture will see Professor Schabas discuss how the international legal system addresses racism and racial discrimination, drawing on his new book The International Legal Order’s Colour Line. Professor Shane Darcy, Deputy Director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights, said: “We are delighted to host this lecture at a crucial time for the protection of human rights. With atrocities continuing in Gaza, Ukraine and elsewhere, and with international law itself in jeopardy, Professor Schabas’ insights on the strengths and weakness of the international legal system in this domain will prove invaluable.” Professor William Schabas’ new book The International Legal Order's Colour Line (Oxford University Press, 2023) narrates how prior to the 20th century, international law was predominantly written by and for the “civilised nations” of the white Global North. It justified doctrines of racial inequality and effectively drew a colour line that excluded citizens of the Global South and persons of African descent from participating in international law-making while subjecting them to colonialism and the slave trade. The book charts the development of regulation on racism and racial discrimination at the international level, principally within the UN. Most notably, it outlines how these themes gained traction once the Global South gained more participation in international law-making after the First World War. It challenges the narrative that human rights are a creation of the Global North by focussing on the decisive contributions that countries of the Global South and people of colour made to anchor anti-racism in international law. The lecture is open to the public. Ends
Thursday, 25 January 2024
University of Galway has heralded the appointment of Professor Michael O’Flaherty as Commissioner for Human Rights of the Council of Europe. Professor O’Flaherty is a renowned human rights expert and previously held the position of Established Professor of Human Rights Law and Director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights at the University. He has had a long and distinguished career with the United Nations spanning 18 years, including setting up human rights field operations in conflict-affected states such as Sierra Leone and Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as serving as a member of the UN Human Rights Committee. Professor O’Flaherty was also Chief Commissioner the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission, an institution set up under the auspices of the Good Friday Agreement. Most recently, he served as Director of the EU Fundamental Rights Agency from 2015-2023. Originally from Galway, he was elected to the position of Commissioner for Human Rights of the Council of Europe by vote in the Council’s Parliamentary Assembly in Strasbourg. President of University of Galway, Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, paid tribute to Professor O’Flaherty following the announcement of his appointment: “Professor O’Flaherty has an internationally respected reputation for dedication to human rights and leadership in the field both on the island of Ireland but also in Europe and around the world. On behalf of University of Galway, I wish to extend congratulations. The ideals and principles which Professor O’Flaherty has pursued and promoted throughout his career are under considerable strain in Europe and it is these qualities that will be at the core of his work in the coming years.” Professor Siobhán Mullally, Director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights at the University, said: “On behalf of the Irish Centre for Human Rights, I am delighted to congratulate Professor Michael O’Flaherty on his election as Council of Europe Commissioner of Human Rights. Michael is an outstanding human rights lawyer and advocate, and distinguished academic. As the former Director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights, he helped to build the Centre’s global reputation for human rights research, teaching and international engagement. His election comes at a challenging time for human rights protection in Europe and globally, as core values of democracy, equality and solidarity are under threat. Michael has prioritised the defence of democracy, protection of the rights of minorities, and vindication of the rights of the Ukrainian people. We look forward to supporting this critical and urgent work and wish him every success.” Professor O’Flaherty will take up the position of Commissioner on 1 April 2024 for a six year term. The Council of Europe was founded in 1949 as an international organisation dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights, democracy and the rule of law across Europe. The Council comprises 46 member states, including Ireland as a founding member. The Commissioner for Human Rights was established by the Council of Europe in 1999 with a mandate to promote awareness of and respect for human rights across the 46 members states. Ends
Thursday, 25 January 2024
Academics at the Irish Centre for High-End Computing (ICHEC) and University of Galway have played a key role on the first comprehensive report on our scientific understanding of climate change and its effects on Ireland. Ireland’s Climate Change Assessment Report (ICCA) was officially launched by Minister for the Environment, Communications, Climate and Transport Eamon Ryan T.D. at the Royal Irish Academy in Dublin. The objective of the ICCA Report is to deliver a comprehensive report on our understanding of climate change; the option to respond to the challenges it poses; to identify opportunities that may arise from the planned transition to a climate neutral, biodiversity-rich, environmentally sustainable and climate resilient economy and society. ICHEC's Dr Paul Nolan, alongside Dr Liam Heaphy, and Dr Enda O'Brien worked in partnership with Professor Conor Murphy and Dr Tara Quinn of Maynooth University to research existing science and write an extended report on adaptation research and policy in Ireland. Dr Liam Heaphy, University of Galway ICHEC, said: “This has been an immense undertaking, which will serve as a reference point on climate change for Ireland, helping people to surmise the present state-of-the-art in research and policy, identify knowledge and policy gaps, and coordinate their own work with those of others.” Dr Paul Nolan, University of Galway ICHEC, said: "The assessment report delivers a first comprehensive Ireland-focused, state of scientific knowledge report on our understanding of climate change, the options to respond to the challenges it poses, and the opportunities that may arise from the planned transition to a climate neutral and climate resilient economy and society.” Also contributing to the ICCA Report from University of Galway were Dr Eugene Farrell and Dr Nessa Cronin, School of Geography, Archaeology, and Irish Studies, Dr Jurgita Ovadnevaite, Ryan Institute, Kirsten Fossum, Damien Martin, ad Dr James McGrath, School of Natural Sciences, and Clare Noone, School of Physics. Dr Farrell provided knowledge on research and policy gaps in Ireland, cross-cutting issues framing adaptation in Ireland, and practical steps required to build community involvement and participation to deliver a more climate resilient Ireland. Dr Cronin's contribution argues that culture and Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences research can help bridge the policy gap between climate ambition and climate action. She outlines how culture should be regarded as the 4th pillar of sustainability and as a core national infrastructure in accelerating transformational eco-social change. The report was funded by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), with the research undertaken by academics at a number of institutions - University of Galway ICHEC, Maynooth University, University College Cork, Dublin City University and Trinity College Dublin. The report consists of four volumes the underlying science; climate neutrality and decarbonisation; climate resilience and adaptation; and just transitions and transformative change. Volume 3 – Being Prepared for Ireland’s Future Climate – runs to 10 chapters covering biodiversity, agriculture, forestry, land-use, coastal and inland water, settlements, heritage, critical infrastructure, health, business, and tourism. Key findings from the ICCA Report found that Ireland's climate is changing with impacts being felt both in Ireland and elsewhere and it will be the reality until excessive greenhouse gases cease and a new climate equilibrium is achieved. The report also states that although early concerted action can limit global temperatures by the end of the century, sea levels will continue to rise beyond 2100. The report also found how climate impacts interact with and intensify other environmental impacts from human activity, such as we see in our biodiversity crisis. A synthesis report and the volumes from the ICCA Report are available from the EPA's website. Ends
Wednesday, 24 January 2024
An international research team led by University of Galway is working in partnership with stakeholders in Vietnam to enable marginalised urban populations to be able to access healthier, more affordable and more sustainable food and diets. The EcoFoodSystems project is conducting research on city regional dietary transitions with food systems organisations and institutions in the south-east Asian country. Vietnam has a population of 99 million – half of whom now live in urban areas, including 8 million in Hanoi. It is estimated that by 2050 three quarters of the country’s population will be living in urban areas. The EU and UN funded project is specifically focused on working with partners to help improve the health of people and communities that are nutritionally marginalised as a result of their diets. EcoFoodSystems is led by Professor Charles Spillane, Director of the Ryan Institute at University of Galway, in partnership with Alliance Bioversity - The International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) in Vietnam and Cali, Colombia; Wageningen University and Research in the Netherlands and the international NGO Rikolto in Vietnam. Professor Charles Spillane, Director of the Ryan Institute, University of Galway, said: “Vietnam has made impressive strides in food security and nutrition over the past decades. “Healthy diets lead to healthy people. But there is a challenge for all organisations in the Hanoi city region’s food system to ensure that all people, young and old, rich and poor, have access to healthy diets that are affordable, where the foods within the diet are produced and supplied with the lowest environmental impact.” “Our project aims to conduct research with partner organisations to better navigate this dietary transition to ensure that current and future generations are healthy.” EcoFoodSyetsms is funded by the European Union and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The research group held a multi-stakeholder consultation workshop in Hanoi, which brought together key representatives and experts from over 50 organisations. The event was opened by Dr Nguyen Do Anh Tuan, Director General, International Cooperation Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), Vietnam who highlighted the importance of taking a foods systems approach across ministries, sectors and stakeholders. The research priorities identified at the EcoFoodSystems workshop will help to inform sustainable food systems transformations and dietary transitions in Vietnam. Mark Lundy, Co-Investigator, EcoFoodSystems project and Leader of Global Food Environments & Behaviour at the Alliance Bioversity-CIAT, said: “The Alliance of Bioversity-CIAT is excited to participate in the EcoFoodSystems project given its focus on linking sustainable, agro-ecological production systems with diverse and healthy diets for consumers. “We hope to help identify clear market signals from consumers to incentivise farmer adoption of clean production practices, for traders to improve traceability of products and retailers to ensure good access and affordability for all consumers.” Dam Trong Tuan, EcoFoodSystems partner Rikolto - Vietnam, said: “Change on a global, national and city-regional scale demands that urban food markets become more inclusive and offer value to all actors in the food chain.” “We empower farmer groups to become solid business partners and implement future-proof, sustainable practices within our urban food systems.” The EcoFoodSystem project’s activities are aligned with Vietnam’s national policies and the National Action Plan on Food System Transformation, which aims for Transparency, Responsibility, and Sustainability by 2030. Ends
Tuesday, 23 January 2024
University of Galway joins ÉireComposites and ORPC Ireland for successful analysis of renewable energy technology for rivers and tides University of Galway has announced successful testing of a next generation marine hydrokinetic turbine foil for renewable energy. The technology was designed by US-headquartered global leader in marine energy ORPC Ireland and fabricated by ÉireComposites, based Inverin, Co Galway. The testing programme is part of the €3.9 million European Commission’s Horizon 2020-funded CRIMSON project and involved 1.3 million fatigue cycles on the turbine foil – the highest number ever reported on a full-scale marine energy component in dry laboratory conditions. The tests were led by the Sustainable and Resilient Structures Research Group at University of Galway, which is part of the Enterprise Ireland-supported technology centre Construct Innovate and the University’s Ryan Institute. The 5m long foil is made from high-performance, carbon fibre reinforced polymer. It is shaped similarly to an airplane wing. When placed perpendicular to river or tidal currents, the foils spin under that force and the technology sends clean, renewable energy via an underwater generator. Three of these foils combine in each of two turbines in the 80kW RivGen marine hydrokinetic energy device. The technology underwent intense stress testing in the University’s Large Structures Testing Laboratory to demonstrate its ability to withstand operational loads over its design lifetime. Prior to completing the testing campaign, a destructive static test was performed on the foil in order to demonstrate its structural integrity at loads well in excess of what is expected during operation in the marine environment. Dr William Finnegan, Assistant Professor and Principal Investigator of CRIMSON at the University of Galway, said: “The findings from this full-scale structural testing programme help to de-risk ORPC’s technology and give insights that can be used for structural health monitoring and inform the next generation of testing standards. The combination of such high-level design and manufacturing with University of Galway’s state-of-the-art testing will improve the reliability of river and tidal energy devices as they move closer to commercial viability.” Tomás Flanagan, Chief Executive of ÉireComposites, said: “ÉireComposites is delighted that the turbine foils we manufactured have performed so well during testing. The foils have a complex helical shape and are challenging to manufacture; they are a credit to the engineers and technicians who worked on the project. We’re delighted to see our work with ORPC Ireland, University of Galway, and the other partners coming to fruition and we’re excited about the commercial potential for marine hydrokinetic devices in delivering clean, sustainable energy. At a time when global interest is focused on achieving a net-zero emission future, it is great to be making advances in the technology that supports this global shift.” Patrick Cronin, Director of European Operations at ORPC Ireland said: “ORPC are bringing clean, predictable, emission-free tidal and river energy to markets around the globe, and this important research is helping to maximise design efficiency and minimise power system costs as global demand for underwater renewable power systems continues to be strong. We are delighted to collaborate with our Irish research partners, University of Galway and ÉireComposites, to move our next-generation power systems to market, and we look forward to the next stage of the project.” The test foil was designed by the team at ORPC Ireland and manufactured from a high-performance carbon fibre reinforced polymer by ÉireComposites, which are leading the CRIMSON Project, and incorporates recycled carbon-fibre material from Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials, Germany. The next phase of the project will trial the complete turbine in operational conditions at Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche’s large towing tank in Rome, Italy. Ends
Thursday, 18 January 2024
Researchers at University of Galway have marked one year of a project designed to tackle healthcare myths and help the public to quickly and easily check the reliability of popular health claims through the online resource iHealthFacts.ie. Using scientific evidence, such as trusted health sources and peer-reviewed studies, the research team analyses information in order to support or refute a healthcare claim. Over the last year, more than 4,500 users have visited iHealthFacts.ie; more than 150 questions have been submitted; and the researchers have assessed, answered or are analysing 60 claims about things that can improve our health. Some of the questions analysed include: Do collagen supplements make a difference in skin ageing? Does working long hours help to prevent dementia? Do drinks containing aspartame increase the risk of cancer in the future? Does taking omega 3 or omega 6 fatty acids - either as supplements or through diet - improve brain health or cognitive function? Do UV lamps in nail bars cause skin cancer? Does lavender improve sleep/does listening to radio, music or podcasts make a difference to sleep? iHealthFacts.ie is funded by the Health Research Board and the Health Service Executive and supported by University of Galway. Its aim is to help people to think critically about health claims and make well-informed choices. Professor Declan Devane, Professor of Health Research Methodology, University of Galway and Principal Investigator with iHealthFacts.ie, said: “Some people find themselves overwhelmed with information, particularly information about what they can do to improve or protect their health. Increasingly, health information spreads faster and further thanks to the web, social media, instant messaging, television and radio, but unfortunately much of it is unreliable. This can lead to poorly informed choices, under- or overuse of health interventions, or treatments, and avoidable waste and human suffering. This is what we aim to tackle.” Dr Philip Crowley, GP and National Director of Strategy and Research with the HSE, said: “Providing trusted health information and advice is one of the HSE’s most important duties. People trust HSE.ie as an online source of health advice, and our healthcare teams are highly trusted by patients to share advice and information. Our work with iHealthFacts.ie aims to explore ways to tackle health misinformation circulating on social media, and to reinforce the value of getting health advice that is evidence-based, from a safe source.” Dr Paula Byrne, lead researcher with iHealthFacts.ie and post-doctoral researcher with Evidence Synthesis Ireland and Cochrane Ireland, said: “We are delighted with the level of interest from the public in iHealthFacts. Thousands of people have accessed our website and read our reviews. We hope this information helps people make informed health decisions and become more skilled in distinguishing reliable health information from that which is unreliable." Deirdre Mac Loughlin, Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) representative on iHealthFacts, said: “PPI, in partnership with iHealthFacts, facilitates informed health decisions through the wealth of lived experience it brings, thus, ensuring a high standard of relevance, rigour, and accountability. This aspect is particularly vital in the realm of publicly funded research, ensuring that the outcomes are not only scientifically robust, but also resonate with and are accountable to the community it serves." Initially set up to debunk misinformation surrounding COVID-19, the research and engagement project was relaunched in late 2022 with further suppot from the HSE and HRB to focus on more general health information and to answer some of the myths around health claims scientifically. The public can submit a question at https://ihealthfacts.ie/ and read through the findings of the research into each health question. People are urged to consider the questions and all of the analysis in full in order to get the best information in relation to healthcare claims and questions which have been analysed. Some findings of a sample of questions analysed so far: Do UV lamps in nail bars cause skin cancer? We found very few studies about skin cancer and UV lamps in nail bars. Some studies reported a link between UV lamps and skin cancer, but others found that there was no link. All the studies we found were either of low quality or not based on humans, so we can’t be sure of their findings or how relevant they are to the general public. Does lavender improve sleep/does listening to radio, music or podcasts make a difference to sleep? Claims have been made that lavender oil, made from the flowers of the lavender plant, is calming and may help people sleep better. One good quality study suggests that lavender may help women with insomnia fall asleep quicker and stay asleep. However, this study only had a small number of people in it. Three other studies have observed improvements in sleep in people using lavender, but we are less certain of the findings of these studies. Does cycling damage men’s genitals? Research on the relationship between cycling and circulation or nerve damage to men’s genitals is very limited. One study found some evidence to suggest a possible link between cycling and erectile dysfunction (caused by poor circulation or nerve damage) when age and some diseases were taken into consideration. The majority of studies in this area are of low quality, so we can’t be sure of this finding. Ends
Monday, 15 January 2024
A new research project being pioneered by University of Galway is to develop solutions to ensure the seamless delivery of regular and elective patient care in a health emergency such as a pandemic. The RAPIDE research project (Regular and Unplanned Care Adaptive Dashboard for Cross-border Emergencies) is being undertaken following the award of a €6 million grant through Horizon Europe and involves a consortium of 13 partners from Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Italy, Slovenia, Malta and Estonia. One of the aims of the research project is to set new standards for fostering resilience and preparedness for future health emergencies, including how digital technologies can offer solutions for care in the home and outside of hospitals and clinics. Researchers will also measure the impact of delayed or unmet care during a health emergency such as a pandemic. The University of Galway team is led by Professor Máire Connolly, Established Professor of Global and Environmental Public Health at the School of Health Sciences with Professor Jim Duggan, Professor of Computer Science at the School of Computer Science. Professor Connolly said: “Our research and what we learn from the RAPIDE project will contribute to national preparedness in Ireland and it will also have an impact within the EU and at a global level.” RAPIDE’s multidisciplinary team of experts in pandemic preparedness, public health, primary care, community care, hospital planning, and computer science will analyse solutions to overcome the challenges of overwhelming patient numbers during a pandemic or health emergency. The research will look back on the COVID-19 pandemic to measure the impact of delayed or unmet care for conditions such as strokes, heart attacks, diabetes and cancer treatment. It will also assess the delivery of regular care across hospital, primary care and home-based settings. Professor Connolly said: "During the COVID-19 pandemic regular healthcare across Europe was disrupted with long-term consequences for patients. The RAPIDE project offers a valuable opportunity to learn from this, to build in healthcare optimisation and forecasting and to create more flexible and adaptable ways to deliver healthcare. It builds on the success of PANDEM-2 project, which was all about developing systems for countries, governments and their health services to plan and prepare responses when the next pandemic hits. “The RAPIDE research will have applicability for winter surges in hospital admissions due to respiratory illnesses, including influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV as it is better known. This winter these illnesses have put hospitals under pressure with increased hospital and ICU admissions in children under 5 and adults aged 65 years and over. It is one of the aims of this project to help hospitals plan for such surges.” Professor Duggan's team will develop a cutting-edge decision support system to forecast surges in demand for patient care during health emergencies. Professor Duggan said: “Our novel technical solution will use state of the art simulation and mathematical methods to model epidemiological and patient pathways in order to evaluate flexible healthcare solutions. The goal is to help mitigate the impact of increased patient demand during pandemic emergencies. The work will be informed by stakeholder requirements and insights across different healthcare scenarios, including hospital, primary, and community care settings, and in collaboration with partners in the Netherlands, Italy, Slovenia and Malta.” RAPIDE will also research digital technologies and the impact on home-based care in rural communities, by evaluating progress made during the pandemic on remote consultations and health monitoring, electronic prescribing and health apps. It will also learn from partners in the research consortium, in particular Norway and the Netherlands, which are both very advanced in these areas. As the project nears completion, the Global Health team at University of Galway will evaluate performance of the decision support system and hybrid-care delivery tools in a pandemic simulation exercise. Stakeholders including the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the European Commission Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety will take part in the stress test. Professor Connolly added: “We also acknowledge the recent establishment of Ireland’s new emerging health threats agency, as announced by Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly T.D. This underscores the importance of building capacity for managing public health threats.” Ends
Tuesday, 9 January 2024
University of Galway has unveiled a sponsorship deal for the Hurling Club - medical device and pharmaceutical consultancy firm Trinzo. The partnership was marked at a special on-campus get-together at the Quadrangle ahead of this season’s Fitzgibbon Cup. University of Galway Hurling are the League Champions for 2023 and have made it to the final of the Fitzgibbon for the last two years, having last lifted the historic trophy in 2010. The University’s Dean of Students Professor Ciara Meehan joined Liam Turley, chief executive of Trinzo, to mark the sponsorship, along with club players Eoin Lawless, Colm Cunningham, Gavin Lee and Ian McGlynn, and club representatives Michael J O’Connor, GAA Officer, Feargal O'Callaghan, acting Director of Sports, Michael Molloy, Club Chair, Barry Murphy, Club Secretary, and Jeff Lynskey, Club Coach. University of Galway’s Dean of Students, Professor Ciara Meehan, said: “University of Galway has a great history in the Fitzgibbon and we are delighted to bring that to a partnership with Trinzo, a Galway-based company that shares our vision for excellence and community development. Sport can be such an important contributor in the growth and health of individual, and having a supportive sponsor makes a real difference. We look forward to a successful journey with Trinzo and to seeing the partnership flourish in the future as we wish all the players, staff and volunteers every success in the Fitzgibbon in 2024.” Liam Turley, chief executive of Trinzo, said: “We are delighted to sponsor the University of Galway Hurling Club and we hope that our partnership will help the hurlers and all those involved with the club to reach great heights. People are at the heart of everything we do – from our clients and their patients, to our local community. That’s why we’re proud to support University of Galway’s hurling team, promoting sport at a local and national level and giving us the chance to support students who are competing at elite level and taking to the field for University of Galway. We wish them every success.” Speaking at the get-together, Michael Molloy, Chair of University of Galway’s Hurling Club, said: “We are delighted to be able to celebrate the great sponsorship and support that we have from Liam Turley and everyone at Trinzo and we hope it will lead to many other celebrations as we head into the fierce competition of this year’s Fitzgibbon Cup.” Trinzo is a medical device and pharmaceutical consultancy firm based in Galway that solves quality, compliance, business development and product development issues to support healthcare globally. The Fitzgibbon Cup starts on January 17, 2024, with 10-time winners University of Galway drawn in Group D along with SETU Carlow and UCD. Ends