February

Professor Siobhán Mullally has been elected chair of a newly-established body supported by the United Nations to enhance the protection and promotion of human rights of refugees and asylum-seekers. The Platform of Independent Experts on Refugee Rights (PIERR) was established by a group of UN and regional independent human rights experts in December 2023 and aims to better co-ordinate joint advocacy initiatives. Professor Mullally is Director of Irish Centre for Human Rights at University of Galway and UN Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, especially women and children. Professor Mullally, said: “The platform is being launched at a time when persecution, conflict, violence, and human rights violations, have resulted in record numbers of people displaced and forced to seek protection. “At the same time, the rights of refugees and asylum seekers are increasingly threatened by a denial of the right to seek asylum. We are witnessing increasingly punitive measures adopted by states, collective expulsions, deprivation of liberty, limited access to asylum procedures, as well as hostility and xenophobia worldwide. “Against this background, it is urgent that we work together across international and regional human rights bodies, to mobilise the full potential of international law and the promised universality of human rights protections. “I hope that this global platform will be an effective advocate for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers, recognising the fundamental right to seek asylum, enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and a foundation of our shared responsibility to provide a place of refuge.”  The platform is supported by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. The expert panel includes Gehad Madi, UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights of migrants; Siobhán Mullally, UN Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, especially women and children; Priya Gopalan (Chair-Rapporteur), Matthew Gillett (Vice-Chair on Communications), Ganna Yudkivska (Vice-Chair on Follow-Up), Miriam Estrada-Castillo, and Mumba Malila of the UN Working Group on arbitrary detention; Claude Heller, Chair of the UN Committee against torture; Selma Sassi-Safer, Commissioner and Special Rapporteur on refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons and migrants in Africa of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights; José Luis Caballero Ochoa, Commissioner and Rapporteur on the rights of migrants of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. Ends

Three University of Galway public engagement and education outreach initiatives have been awarded funding through Science Foundation Ireland’s Discover Programme.   The projects are among 38 being supported with €5million investment announced by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris T.D., and Minister for Education, Norma Foley T.D. to encourage understanding of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).   The funding will create greater public awareness of the impact of STEM on society and everyday life, generate opportunities for dialogue and encourage diversity in STEM-related disciplines.   Professor Jim Livesey, Vice-President for Research and Innovation at University of Galway, said: “Outreach and public engagement are integral to research at University of Galway and these innovative projects will help generate enthusiasm for STEM while inspiring young people to aspire to careers in the sciences. I thank Science Foundation Ireland for their continued support of these programmes and look forward to the events and activities that are planned.”   University of Galway’s funded projects include:   ReelLIFE SCIENCE ReelLIFE SCIENCE is a cross-border public engagement programme, which encourages young people and the public to discover more about STEM and its impact on individuals, society and the environment, while at the same time developing participants’ creativity, communication and digital skills.  Young people from primary schools, secondary schools and youth organisations are challenged to research a STEM topic and communicate it for the public via an engaging and educational 3-minute video. The best videos are awarded prizes of €1,000 and are screened for the public at the Galway Science and Technology Festival, at other public events, and online.  Led by Dr Enda O’Connell, ReelLIFE SCIENCE has enabled more than 23,000 young people from across the island of Ireland to directly engage with STEM in a novel way. The videos produced have had a secondary audience of over 570,000 online and at public screenings, increasing the public’s knowledge and engagement with science and technology.  Empathy Detectives The Empathy Detectives project is a collaboration between CÚRAM, the SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices hosted by University of Galway, and the University’s Ideas Lab and PPI Ignite Network, and patient representative Cameron Keighron, a member of the D1 Now Young Adult Panel, which aims to improve engagement between young adults with Type 1 Diabetes and their healthcare providers.   Led by Professor Abhay Pandit, the project will convene a patient panel to work alongside the project team to create 'empathy kits'; a series of short experiences that create empathy and understanding about the lived experience of diabetes for public audiences, with a particular focus on junior cycle students and families. These kits will be made available at Galway City Museum, through CÚRAM's public exhibit 'SUPERHUMAN' which is housed there. The kit will be co-created, tested and evaluated with a view to establishing a model for creation of further empathy kits representing chronic conditions targeted by current research at CÚRAM.    The project will deliver a series of design workshops that will incorporate the empathy kit experience and facilitate participants to use design thinking exercises to generate creative ideas and solutions for chronic illnesses. Workshop audiences will include teachers, students, researchers, patient groups and families. Key to the success of the project will be the involvement of patients, researchers and clinicians in the design of the empathy experience. The end goal of the project is to create meaningful educational resources that encourage and develop empathy alongside innovation, and that relate directly to the junior cycle science curriculum. START To Discover: Fuelling curiosity with trials and scientist interactionSTART To Discover aims to make STEM learning engaging and accessible for all primary school children in Ireland, fuelling a new generation of scientific curiosity and discovery. The project builds on two successful projects by University of Galway - the ‘START (Schools Teaching Awareness of Randomised Trials) Competition’ and the 'Meet the Scientist Webinar Series'.    The 'Meet the Scientist Webinar Series' lets children interact with real scientists, hearing about their jobs and careers, asking questions, and learning about the different paths in STEM. These webinars encourage children to see themselves in these roles, sparking curiosity and ambition.   The 'START Competition' gives children the chance to become scientists themselves. They work together to create, carry out, and report on their own science experiments, learning about how research works and experiencing the excitement of discovery.   The project team, led by Dr Sandra Galvin, aim to bring in a wider range of professionals for the webinars, providing more resources for schools participating in the competition, and finding new ways to involve and inspire more children.    Ends

Tá ainm dlíthiúil nua Ollscoil na Gaillimhe fógartha go foirmeálta anois – Ollscoil na Gaillimhe a bheidh uirthi i nGaeilge, agus University of Galway i mBéarla. Dheimhnigh an tAire Breisoideachais agus Ardoideachais, Taighde, Nuálaíochta agus Eolaíochta, Simon Harris T.D., an t-athrú le hordú tar éis athbhrandáil a tharla in 2022. Tháinig éifeacht leis an ainm dlíthiúil nua Dé Céadaoin, an 21 Feabhra 2024 agus fógraíodh inniu é trína fhoilsiú in Iris Oifigiúil an Rialtais. D’fhógair Uachtarán Ionaid agus Meabhránaí Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, an tOllamh Pól Ó Dochartaigh, an t-athrú i dteachtaireacht chuig an bhfoireann: “Tá an-áthas orm a bheith in ann an nuacht a roinnt libh go bhfuil athrú tagtha ar ainm dlíthiúil na hOllscoile agus is mian liom aitheantas a thabhairt don tacaíocht a thug an tAire Harris dúinn an lá suntasach i stair agus oidhreacht na hOllscoile a bhaint amach. “Is ionann ainm dlíthiúil na hOllscoile anois agus ‘Ollscoil na Gaillimhe’ i nGaeilge, agus ‘University of Galway’ i mBéarla. Leanann ár dtiomantas mar ollscoil do phrionsabal an dátheangachais agus léiriú air sin is ea an t-ainm nua seo. Ba mhaith liom thar ceann na hOllscoile buíochas a ghabháil le gach duine a raibh baint acu leis an athrú go dtí an t-ainm nua. Aithnímid freisin iad siúd ar fad lasmuigh de phobal na hOllscoile a thacaigh lenár n-iarrachtaí féiniúlacht a bhunú atá chomh nasctha sin leis an áit ina bhfuilimid, agus a leanann leis an tacaíocht sin i gcónaí. Críoch

The new legal name of University of Galway has been formally announced – in Irish it is Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, and in English it is University of Galway.  The change was confirmed by order of the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris T.D. and follows a rebrand in 2022. The new legal name came into effect on Wednesday February 21, 2024 and was announced today by being published in Iris Oifigiúil – the official gazette of the Government. Deputy President and Registrar of University of Galway, Professor Pól Ó Dochartaigh, announced the change in a message to staff: “I am delighted to be able to share the news of the change to our University’s legal name and I wish to acknowledge the support of Minister Harris in reaching this landmark date in our history and heritage.  “The University's legal name is now ‘Ollscoil na Gaillimhe’ in Irish and ‘University of Galway’ in English. As a university we remain committed to the principle of bilingualism illustrated by this new name.  “On behalf of the University I want to thank everyone who has played a part in the journey to the new name. We would also like to acknowledge all those outside of our University community who have supported and continue to support our efforts to establish an identity with such a close bond to our place.” Ends

Analysis of results from international trials question whether current aspirin recommendations apply to all patients    Data points to a need for further evidence on best practice among adults already taking aspirin for cardiovascular disease prevention    Heart disease researchers have identified a group of patients in whom international guidelines on aspirin use for heart health may not apply.  In a study published in the renowned medical journal Circulation, the findings of a review of data from three clinical trials challenge current best practice for use of the drug for primary prevention of heart disease or stroke - otherwise known as atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.    The research examined the results from clinical trials involving more than 47,000 patients in 10 countries, including the US, the UK and Australia, which were published in 2018.     The analysis focused on findings for a subgroup of 7,222 patients who were already taking aspirin before the three trials commenced. Those studied were at increased risk for cardiovascular disease and were taking aspirin to prevent the first occurrence of a heart attack or stroke.   The data showed a higher risk of heart disease or stroke – 12.5% versus 10.4% - for patients who were on aspirin before the trials and who then stopped, compared to those who stayed on the drug.    Analyses also found no significant statistical difference in the risk for major bleeding between the two groups of patients. The research was led by Professor J. William McEvoy, Established Professor of Preventive Cardiology at University of Galway and Consultant Cardiologist at Saolta University Health Care Group, in collaboration with researchers in University of Tasmania and Monash University, Melbourne.   Professor McEvoy said: “We challenged the notion that aspirin discontinuation is a one-size-fits-all approach.”   The research team noted results from observational studies which suggest a 28% higher risk of heart disease or stroke among adults who were prescribed aspirin to reduce the risk for a first heart attack or stroke, but who subsequently chose to stop taking the aspirin without being told to do so by their doctor.   Based in large part on three major clinical trials published in 2018, international guidelines no longer recommend the routine use of aspirin to prevent the first occurrence of heart attack or stroke.  Importantly, aspirin remains recommended for high-risk adults who have already had a heart disease or stroke event, to reduce the risk of a second event.   The move away from primary prevention aspirin in recent guidelines is motivated by the increased risk of major bleeding seen with this common medication in the three trials, albeit major bleeding is relatively uncommon on aspirin and was most obvious only among trial participants who were started on aspirin during the trial, rather than those who were previously taking aspirin safely.  These trials primarily tested the effect of starting aspirin among adults who have not previously been treated with the drug to reduce the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Less is known about what to do in the common scenario of adults who are already safely taking aspirin for primary prevention.   Professor McEvoy said: “Our findings of the benefit of aspirin in reducing heart disease or stroke without an excess risk of bleeding in some patients could be due to the fact that adults already taking aspirin without a prior bleeding problem are inherently lower risk for a future bleeding problem from the medication. Therefore, they seem to get more of the benefits of aspirin with less of the risks.  “These results are hypothesis-generating, but at present are the best available data. Until further evidence becomes available, it seems reasonable that persons already safely treated with low-dose aspirin for primary prevention may continue to do so, unless new risk factors for aspirin-related bleeding develop.”    Ends  

Tá Ollscoil na Gaillimhe ag iarraidh ar gach duine, idir óg agus aosta, ar mian leo a bheith ina n-innealtóirí, páirt a ghlacadh in imeacht teaghlaigh saor in aisce an deireadh seachtaine seo. Beidh ‘Innealtóirí na Todhchaí: Lá Spraoi Teaghlaigh’ ar siúl Dé Sathairn, an 2 Márta ó 10am go 4pm in Áras Innealtóireachta Alice Perry. Tá an imeacht eagraithe mar chuid de Sheachtain na nInnealtóirí 2024, a dhéanann ceiliúradh ar an innealtóireacht ar fud na hÉireann, agus beidh neart seónna eolaíochta agus innealtóireachta, taispeántais scannán, ceardlanna agus gníomhaíochtaí praiticiúla ar fáil a spreagfaidh daoine óga agus aosta. Mar aon le seónna beo, ar nós Fun Fantastic Physics, is féidir le teaghlaigh freastal ar dhá léiriú scannáin i rith an lae – Dream Big: Engineering Our World agus John Phillip Holland: Submarine Inventor. Dúirt an tOllamh Jamie Goggins, Scoil na hInnealtóireachta in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, gur innealtóirí nádúrtha iad leanaí mar gur breá leo rudaí a dhearadh agus a thógáil, ag baint úsáid as cibé rud is féidir leo a fháil: “Le heolas, nuálaíocht agus cruthaitheacht, athraíonn innealtóirí réaltacht agus todhchaí gach cine daonna. Ba mhaith linn an oiread teaghlach agus is féidir a bheith páirteach linn le haghaidh imeachtaí an lae chun Seachtain na nInnealtóirí a cheiliúradh agus chun an innealtóireacht a fhiosrú trí ghníomhaíochtaí agus seónna spraíúla, chomh maith le bualadh le hinnealtóirí chun níos mó a fhoghlaim faoin domhan mórthimpeall orainn, ról na hinnealtóireachta inár saol a thuiscint mar aon lena tionchar ar ár dtodhchaí.” I rith an lae beidh deis ag teaghlaigh a dtuirbín gaoithe féin a thógáil; tuiscint bhunúsach a fháil ar ról agus struchtúr ceall agus DNA le Taiscéalaithe na gCeall; bithábhar a thógáil ag baint úsáid as sláthach; spraoi le priontáil 3D; foghlaim conas rothair a dheisiú le cabhair ón Meitheal Rothar; breathnú ar an GEEC: Carr na Gaillimhe atá Tíosach ar Fhuinneamh; spraoi i limistéir shúgartha LEGO nó STEM; nó sos a ghlacadh sa seomra céadfach.  Is féidir le lucht freastail a gcuid scileanna tiomána agus braistintí guaise a chleachtadh ar ionsamhlóirí gluaisteán, gluaisrothair nó rothair den scoth a chuirfidh an tÚdarás um Shábháilteacht ar Bhóithre ar fáil. Beidh na gníomhaíochtaí seo agus go leor gníomhaíochtaí eile a thaispeánann saol na hinnealtóireachta sibhialta, comhshaoil, meicniúla, bithleighis, leictreonaí, fuinnimh agus ríomhaireachta ar fáil ar an lá.  Tá clár iomlán imeachtaí an Lae Spraoi Teaghlaigh ar fáil ag www.universityofgalway.ie/engineersweek/. Tá ticéid saor in aisce, agus is féidir iad a chur in áirithe do roinnt seónna roimh ré ar an láithreán gréasáin. Moltar do theaghlaigh freisin teacht ar an lá, agus tabharfar tús áite dóibh siúd is túisce a bheidh i láthair. Críoch

University of Galway is calling all young and old wannabe engineers to participate in a free family event this weekend. ‘Engineering Our Future: Family Fun Day’ takes place on Saturday, March 2 from 10am to 4pm in the Alice Perry Engineering Building. Organised as part of Engineers Week 2024, which celebrates engineering across Ireland, the event will provide plenty of science and engineering shows, film screenings, workshops and hands-on activities that will inspire both the young and the old. Along with live shows, such as Fun Fantastic Physics, families can attend two film screenings throughout the day – Dream Big: Engineering Our World and John Phillip Holland: Submarine Inventor. Professor Jamie Goggins, School of Engineering at University of Galway, said that children are natural engineers as they love to design and build things, using whatever they can get their hands on: “With knowledge, innovation and creativity, engineers change the reality and future of all human beings. We want to see as many families join us for the day-long events to help mark and celebrate Engineers Week and explore engineering through exciting and fun, hands-on activities and shows, as well as meeting with practising engineers to better learn about the world around us, understand the role of engineering in our lives and its impact on our future.” Throughout the day families will have an opportunity to build their own wind turbine; gain a basic understanding of the role and structure of cells and DNA with Cell Explorers; build a biomaterial using slime; have fun with 3D printing; learn how to repair bicycles from An Mheitheal Rothar; explore the GEEC: Galway Energy Efficient Car; have fun in the LEGO or STEM play areas; or take some timeout in the sensory room.  Attendees can also practice their driving and hazard perception skills on state-of the art car, motorbike or bicycle simulators provided by the Road Safety Authority. These and many other activities showing the world of civil, environmental, mechanical, biomedical, electronic, energy systems and computer engineering will be available on the day.  The full programme of events for Family Fun Day is available at www.universityofgalway.ie/engineersweek/. Tickets are free, and they can be booked for some shows in advance through the website. Families are also advised that they can turn up on the day, on a first come, first served, basis. Ends

Teenagers in west of Ireland report decline in wellbeing and mental health Researchers at University of Galway have identified that young people who have suffered adversity in the home, among peers, or at school are substantially more at risk of self-harm. Academics at the UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre and School of Psychology today published a report on mental health and wellbeing based on results from surveys of more than 15,000 young people in three counties – Galway, Mayo and Roscommon – between 2018 and 2022. The report, Adolescent Mental Health & Adversity - Profiles and Trends in the West of Ireland 2018-2022, examines statistics from Planet Youth surveys where pupils in 4th year in post-primary schools in the three counties self-report on a range of topics.  The research focused on patterns of adversity which young people experience across home, peer and school contexts to establish whether these are linked to mental health outcomes or self-harm behaviours. The researchers aim to use the study to identify protective factors and determine whether personal practices such as sleep and physical activity and whether friend or parental support and school safety are associated with better mental health outcomes and/or act as a buffer for adversity related risk. The full report can be viewed here https://www.universityofgalway.ie/cfrc/publications/researchpolicyreports/ Other key findings from the research are: Adversity increases risk of self-harm and is associated with poorer mental health outcomes among adolescents.  Health behaviours, like sleep and physical activity, and supports from parents, peers and schools, are associated with better mental health outcomes. Young people who experience adversity across multiple contexts (e.g., at home, in school, or with peers) are substantially more at risk of self-harm, compared to youth who do not experience adversity. Approximately 13% of the young people who had little likelihood/probability of experiencing adversity were likely to have self-harmed at some point in their life. This compared to 27% of the young people who experienced parental adversity; 37% of those who experienced adversity amongst peers; and 82% of those who experienced adversity in several ways. Depressive tendencies were highest for the group who experienced adversity across multiple contexts and lowest for the low adversity group. Girls and non-binary teens are more likely than boys to self-harm, and experience poorer mental health outcomes. Irish adolescents, and those from two-parent households, reported better mental health outcomes than adolescents from other family structures or cultural backgrounds. The research was conducted by Dr Charlotte Silke, Dr Bernadine Brady, Dr Caroline Heary and colleagues from the UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre and School of Psychology at University of Galway. It was funded by the Health Research Board and undertaken in collaboration with Planet Youth, the HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention and the National Suicide Research Foundation. Dr Charlotte Silke said:  "This research highlights an important link between youth adversity and mental health. Consistently, across each year, we found that experiencing adversity, in any setting - whether that's at home or at school - increases risk of self-harm and poor mental health, and youth who experience adversity across multiple contexts, for example, at home and at school, are at substantial risk. To fully understand the impact of adversity on young people we need to look at the contexts in which they are experiencing adversity." Dr Bernadine Brady said: “From a policy perspective, the link between adversity and poor mental health highlighted in this study underlines the need for prevention and early intervention services and supports to reduce adversity for children, young people and families. Key messages for young people, parents or guardians and schools are that factors such as sleep, physical activity, support from parents and friends and feeling safe at school are associated with better youth mental health.” Ends

Student Sustainability Leadership Awards open for entries University of Galway has today hosted the Government of Ireland national Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Champions on campus. The 26 champions were selected by government to raise public awareness of the United Nations SDGs and include organisations such as the GAA, An Post, Tesco and the FAI.  University of Galway is the first university to hold the honour, recognising the leading role that it is playing in achieving and realising the ambitions of the 17 Goals, to improve human life and protect the environment. Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan T.D., sent a message of support to the SDG Champions: “I’m delighted to see University of Galway hosting today’s SDG champions’ meeting, on the themes of Climate Action (SDG 13) and Partnerships (SDG17). Further and higher education institutions play a critical role in helping society to achieve the SDGs, through Education for Sustainable Development, academic research and teaching, and also through everyday practices. To achieve the SDGs, there is also a need for greater collaboration and partnerships. Universities are important places for developing these. It is very encouraging to see University of Galway taking a lead role in this, embedding the SDGs in their research, teaching and operations, and building partnerships, many of which have been represented today. Today’s event was a great opportunity for the SDG Champions to collaborate, share knowledge and learn from best practice examples of activities and partnerships taking place across the country, to achieve Agenda 2030.” University of Galway Deputy President and Registrar, Professor Pól Ó Dochartaigh, said: “University of Galway is delighted to host the national SDG champions on campus. Our university community has defined sustainability and openness as two of our core values, and in this spirit we are making good use of our SDG Champion status to highlight the importance of the SDGs for our students, our society and our planet. University of Galway is proud to be ranked in the top 50 universities of the world for addressing the SDGs and the leading university in Ireland for this work and hosting all 26 champions in Galway is symbolic of our intent to continue those efforts.” The University of Galway’s SDG Champion status acknowledges many years of hard work embedding the SDGs on multiple levels across the University.  Ranked as the top university in Ireland (and #34 in the world) by Times Higher Education Impact Rankings for performance on the SDGs  Received Gold rating in the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS)  First in Europe to be awarded Green Lab certification Awarded the Green Campus Flag in 2019 and 2022 To advance SDG-related projects, the University has today launched the Student Sustainability Leadership Awards 2024. The awards recognise the leading role that students play in the transition to a sustainable future and aim to support student leaders that are dedicated and enthusiastic about developing a more sustainable campus and community.   Student Sustainability Leadership Awards are available for two current University of Galway students. Awardees will each receive an 8-week sponsored internship with the University’s Sustainability Office during summer 2024.  Professor Pól Ó Dochartaigh, Deputy President and Registrar, said: “As SDG Champion, University of Galway advocates the UN Goals, and inspire others, especially those in higher education, to commit and contribute to Ireland achieving its targets. We are establishing a Sustainability Office to lead and promote sustainability in all aspects of University learning and research, culture, operations and governance structures, and to empower its diverse communities of staff, students and partners to co-create tomorrow's sustainable campus and deliver the Sustainable Development Goals. The Student Sustainability Leadership Awards represent an excellent learning and leadership opportunity for enthusiastic students to work with our new Sustainability Office during the summer.” The deadline for entries to the Student Sustainability Leadership Awards is midday on Monday March 4th. Further information is available at: www.universityofgalway.ie/sustainability/  Ends  

University of Galway Professor in Pathology Sharon Glynn has been appointed Fulbright Ambassador for the university. In the Ambassadorial role, Professor Glynn will offer guidance to University of Galway staff and students who wish to apply for a Fulbright Scholarship to study, research or teach in the USA. She will also liaise with faculty and staff to grow new Ireland-USA networks and collaborations, through hosting Fulbright U.S. Scholars and Students. As a translational cancer researcher Professor Glynn is focused on identifying factors that influence cancer development and progression. During her 2022-2023 Fulbright Scholar Award, she visited Houston Methodist Research Institute and the University of Notre Dame Harper Cancer Research Institute to collaborate and learn from world-renowned experts in the field of triple negative breast cancer. Sharon also has an interest in early researcher career development and is the lead on a Marie Curie Sklodowska Actions (MSCA) doctoral training network. Fulbright Commission in Ireland Executive Director, Dr Dara Fitzgerald said:  “The Fulbright Commission is delighted to appoint Professor Sharon Glynn as Fulbright Ambassador for the University of Galway. As a Fulbright Alum, she will provide insight to students and staff who are considering visiting the U.S. through Fulbright scholarships. We look forward to reviewing applications from the University of Galway as part of the 2025-2026 Fulbright Irish Awards Competition.”   Fulbright-University of Galway Ambassador, Professor Sharon Glynn said: "I am delighted to be appointed as Fulbright Ambassador to University of Galway. In 2022, I was honoured to receive a Fulbright Scholar Award which granted me the opportunity to collaborate with and learn from the Houston Methodist Research Institute. Our focus was on developing collaborations between our two institutes around new spatial pathological imaging techniques for triple negative breast cancer, with a view to gaining a better understanding of the factors that influence patient outcomes. “The Fulbright commission also sponsored a visit the University of Notre Dame, where I had the opportunity to speak to undergraduate students and faculty about opportunities for studying and teaching abroad in Ireland, and to develop additional research collaborations. Additionally, I spent three wonderful days at the Spring 2023 Chicago Fulbright Scholar Enrichment Seminar with fellow Fulbright awardees, and had the opportunity to present on prostate cancer related public health aspects in Ireland. I look forward to supporting faculty and students from University of Galway to partake in the outstanding opportunities afforded by a Fulbright Scholarship." The 2025-2026 Fulbright Irish Awards competition will open in August 2024. Visit www.fulbright.ie to learn more. The Fulbright Irish Awards provide grants and support for Irish citizens, and E.U. citizens who have been resident in the ROI for 5+ years, to research, study, or lecture in the USA. Opportunities are available in all disciplines. The Commission encourages applications from people from diverse backgrounds to all its schemes, programmes and activities. Ends

University of Galway has announced plans to celebrate Irish Traveller Ethnicity Week with a week-long series of events across campus. Irish Traveller Ethnicity Week starts on Monday February 27th and runs to Friday March 1st - marking the anniversary of the Government formally recognising Irish Travellers as a distinct ethnic group and celebrating their culture and heritage including music, craft traditions and language. The University is hosting a range of panel discussions, workshops and cultural exhibitions throughout the week, with a variety of opportunities for staff, students and the public to learn more about Irish Traveller culture, overcoming adversity in education and the experiences of Leaving Certificate students as members of the Irish Traveller community. Mary Warde Moriarty (Doctor of Laws (LLD)), a traveller, human rights activist, who recently received an honorary degree from University of Galway will officially open this year's series of events on Monday 26th February at 11am, The View, Áras na Mac Léinn.  Highlights from the programme of events include:  The Michael McDonagh Award - will be presented at the opening ceremony to a staff member who has shown leadership in promoting Irish Traveller History & Culture, promoting the full participation of Irish Travellers in education and advancement of Irish Traveller human rights. Traveller Living Exhibition - The exhibition showcases the rich cultural heritage of Irish Traveller life in the 1950s. A fully restored barrel-top wagon, a traditional tent and a working tinsmith are amongst the many features. Monday, February 26th from 10am–4.30pm, Áras na Mac Léinn. Traveller Education and Anti-racism - Dr Hannagh McGinley, a member of the Irish Traveller community, will talk about her journey through education and working life. After completing a BA in English and Philosophy and H Dip and MA in Community Development, Hannagh went on to be awarded a doctorate at University of Galway. Dr McGinley’s research expertise is Irish Traveller education, anti-racism, culturally responsive and intercultural approaches to education. Monday, February 26th from 3pm–4pm, THB-G010 Hardiman Research Building. Galway Traveller Movement - A document titled Going for our dreams in a racist society will be on display, which shares stories of five Leaving Certificate students and their school experiences as members of the Irish Traveller Community. Tuesday February 27th from 11am–12pm, THB-G010 Hardiman Research Building. Story Telling and Music – Trish Reilly, an Irish Traveller activist and singer-songwriter, inspired by her heritage and strong family musical tradition, will perform songs and tell a few stories. Wednesday, February 28th from 3pm–4pm, The Space, Áras na Mac Léinn. Mincéirs Whiden Society, Coffee Morning – Join members of the Mincéir (Irish Traveller) Students Society over a cup of a coffee as they share their stories. Thursday, 29th February from 10am-12pm Meeting Room 2, Áras na Mac Léinn. Traveller History and Culture – Anne Marie Stokes, Traveller Education Officer at University of Galway will discuss the history of Irish Travellers. Friday March 1st from 10:30am–11:30am, The Space, Áras na Mac Léinn. The week will also see a series of events being held to highlight the supports available to students, including sessions on the University of Sanctuary programme and information on pathways into and through education.  Dr Helen Maher, Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at University of Galway, said: “Each year the Irish Traveller Ethnicity Week at the University marks our commitment to openness, diversity and inclusion as we build and strengthen connections with the wider community. We welcome and encourage all students, including Irish Traveller students, to seize the opportunities that education offers and that this week brings. Our University is open to all and works to ensure equality for all our students by providing supports to overcome barriers and establish a sense of belonging and the week-long celebration of Irish Traveller ethnicity affords us the opportunity to reflect on where we have come from on that journey and where we should look to as a community.” Imelda Byrne, Head of University of Galway’s Access Centre, said: “The Access Centre is proud to host University of Galway’s Irish Traveller Ethnicity Week activities and to collaborate with our students, the Office of the Vice-President for Equality and Diversity, and Irish Traveller Organisations in the region. Year on year we see the progress that is being made to increase the diversity of our student population and the increased commitment to providing supports, resources, and a welcoming sense of community to ensure that all of our students, including Irish Traveller students, have an equal opportunity to participate and succeed.” The week's events are organised by University of Galway’s Access Centre, in collaboration with Irish Traveller Organisations, local schools, Mincéirs Whiden Society, Galway Traveller Movement and Cell Explorers. Ends  

Four academics at University of Galway have been awarded funding from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for projects to address climate and environment challenges.  The research covers the areas of air quality; radioactive material in building products; climate resilience for bridges; and optimising resources.  The University of Galway projects are: - Myra Lydon - Towards a Climate Resilient Adapted National Network of Bridges - Jurgita Ovadnevaite - Sources of PM2.5 in the Air of Irish Towns - Mark Foley - NORM-BMI: Investigation of naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) in building materials in Ireland. - Thomas van Rensburg - Framework for Optimising Resources through Strategic Environmental Assessment University of Galway Vice-President for Research and Innovation Professor Jim Livesey said: “The funding awards achieved by University of Galway academics show a clear commitment and desire for research for the public good by tackling challenges which our affecting the daily lives of people at home and abroad. University of Galway is recognised as a leader on sustainability – as well as it being one of our core values. Universities are key to the pursuit of improving people’s lives and we wish our researchers every success as they work on outcomes to support that ambition in a cleaner, healthier, better environment.” The EPA described the funding awards as a reflection of its ongoing commitment to funding environmental and climate research. Announcing the awards, Laura Burke, EPA Director General said: “Scientific research and innovation are playing an increasingly important role in informing how governments and society can respond to the challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation. The projects announced today will address knowledge gaps, both current and future, to provide robust evidence to support the implementation of effective environmental policies in Ireland. This EPA funding will also help to build transdisciplinary research capacity and talent in Ireland in key areas relating to sustainability transitions and societal transformations. These specialist skills and expertise are essential to enable Ireland to effectively leverage the full range of environmental, economic and societal opportunities offered by the green transition. I congratulate the successful research teams and look forward to seeing the project outputs making a positive contribution to environmental protection in the years ahead.” Ends 

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O'Gorman, T.D., is to address a University of Galway event on the upcoming referendums on the family and care.  The event - The Constitutional Referendums on 8th March 2024: A Discussion with Minister Roderic O’Gorman - takes place in the IT Building, IT250, on Tuesday February 20th and is open to the public.  Next month, Irish citizens who are registered to vote will have the opportunity to vote in two constitutional referendums.   The first referendum concerns the concept of family in the Constitution, and if passed would broaden the definition of family beyond marriage.   The second Referendum proposes to delete an existing part of the Constitution and insert new text providing recognition for care provided by family members to each other, and to remove the reference to duties in the home of a mother.  Dr Brian Tobin, School of Law, will provide a critical response to the Minister's address and an audience Q&A will also take place.  Speaking ahead of the event, Dr Brian Tobin, said: “I am delighted that Minister O'Gorman can join us at University of Galway to take part in this informative and insightful event for our students, staff and the public. Minister O'Gorman will emphasise the importance of the referendum proposals to attendees, but they will also be exposed to my own critique of the proposals, and then have the opportunity to engage with the Minister themselves in what I hope will be a lively audience Q&A session.”  Ends

University of Galway are set to return to top-flight camogie for third level education in 2025 after being crowned the 2024 Purcell Cup champions.    The club secured the promotion to the Ashbourne Cup competition after defeating SETU Carlow at the University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome on Sunday.     University of Galway had two teams competing as they hosted the Electric Ireland Third Level Camogie Championship at the venue in Bekan, Co Mayo.     2024 marked the third year in a row in which University of Galway Camogie Club reached the final in the Purcell Cup, after suffering narrow defeats in 2022 and 2023. From the throw-in University of Galway hit the ground running with a beautiful point from play from joint captain Tiffanie Fitzgerald within ten seconds and they never looked back.      University of Galway ran out winners, securing the promotion to the premier Ashbourne Cup competition for 2025 with a scoreline of 5-27 to 1-09.    President of University of Galway, Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, said: “We are thrilled to see the University’s Camogie team back in the top ranks of the sport. Our players have gone from strength to strength and shown great commitment and resilience in reaching three finals in a row and now breaking through to the Ashbourne Cup for next year. We speak of our values at the University and of the role that our students play in our university community and it is great to be able to celebrate such success and excellence from this inspirational group of players.”      Tiffanie Fitzgerald, joint captain of University of Galway Camogie Club, said: “I’m absolutely delighted on behalf of everyone involved to have lifted the Purcell Cup. It has taken a huge effort and commitment from the players, the team management and the club officers to get University of Galway camogie back to the Ashbourne and I’m already looking forward to competing at the top-level next year. We were also delighted to have Aerogen on board as our club sponsors this year and it is great to be able to show them the value of their investment. There is something really special about college camogie and we all get so much from it. I’ve made friends for life. It’s also a great distraction from the pressures of college and exams and a great experience playing with players that you’d normally compete against.”      John Power, CEO Aerogen, which sponsors the Camogie Club, said: “Over our 25-year history Aerogen, Ireland’s largest indigenous med-tech company, has proudly partnered with many local charities and sporting organisations. We have always been attracted to support teams and organisations that share our values of commitment, ambition and team spirit and in particular those who perhaps ‘punch above their weight’. This is why we were particularly proud to support the University’s camogie teams and the whole company are absolutely delighted with their achievements over the weekend culminating in the Purcell Cup victory. They have done their University and the West of Ireland proud.”      The University’s junior camogie team contested the Uí Mhaolagáin Cup Final on Saturday evening against UL, but narrowly missed out on victory by the finest of margins.      Speaking after the game, Camogie Club manager Louise O’Connor said: “We’re disappointed that our juniors lost out by a single point but we are so proud of this group of players and the commitment they have shown throughout the year. We’re already looking forward to next year and I know that some of these players will have an eye on breaking into the Ashbourne panel so this has been a great experience for them.”      Ends 

Three stories of people and projects at University of Galway are to take centre stage in a new docuseries on RTÉ1, My Uni Life.   The nine-part series was filmed over the course of academic year 2022/23, going behind the scenes in eight universities, as students and staff navigate the opportunities and challenges of life in higher education.   My Uni Life, produced by New Decade in partnership with the Irish Universities Association, airs on Friday, February 16th at 8pm on RTÉ One.  The series is set to highlight these stories from University of Galway:   Medicine students and staff were recorded as they were put through their paces in state-of-the-art clinical simulation, mimicking the real-life challenges of frontline healthcare. The Universities Healthcare Simulation and Interprofessional Education Facility spans more than 1000m2 and gives students access to more than 20 immersive learning rooms fitted out to hospital standard. The challenge of teaching and learning in such lifelike environment is on air in Episode 2, on Friday February 23rd   University Archivist Niamh Ní Charra has taken on the responsibility of the archive of former President of Ireland and United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Mary Robinson. The complexity of such work is enormous, with the materials running to 660 boxes and the work having been interrupted by Covid health restrictions. The archive, and the archival work, offers us a unique look into the enduring themes that have characterised Mary Robinson's extensive career, encompassing human rights, equal rights, and women's rights. The docuseries followed Niamh Ní Charra as she catalogues and evaluates the vast archive, as well as taking the opportunity to introduce Mary Robinson to some materials from key moments in her life on a special visit to the Mary Robinson Centre in Ballina. The story features in episodes 3 & 5 on Friday March 1st and 8th  The University has a longstanding partnership with the Galway International Arts Festival, and as the ink was drying on a new five-year strategic partnership, the docuseries shows students, festival ambassadors and lecturers who work hard to make it a success. As well as going behind the scenes to capture the drama and demands of hosting the GIAF on campus, the series reveals how master’s students on the SELECTED programme and volunteers get to be part of a globally renowned festival. The story features on episode 8 on Friday April 8th.  Deputy President and Registrar, Professor Pól Ó Dochartaigh, welcomed news of the broadcast schedule: “I am delighted to see confirmation of My Uni Life on our TV screens and its unique and authentic insight into campus life and the experiences of students and staff.  “The series is only possible thanks to the Irish Universities Association, which partners with RTÉ and Dublin-based production house New Decade. A sincere thanks to everyone who helped us to share and feature such interesting stories, activities, and life here at University of Galway.”  Jim Miley, Director General of the Irish Universities Association, said: “It is great to be back on campus for the second series of My Uni Life to show first-hand how our universities are providing exciting opportunities and a life-shaping experience for Students. We also get a ‘birds' eye’ view of the working day of some of the 20,000 staff in our universities and the impact of our colleges on their local communities and regions.” More information on the series can be found on https://www.iua.ie/myunilife2/  Ends 

Deloitte empowering students at J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics as future leaders by celebrating academic excellence, mentorship and sharing professional expertise University of Galway and Deloitte Ireland have today unveiled a new five-year strategic partnership, which sees Deloitte commit €550,000 to create opportunities for students to benefit from the company’s professional expertise, leadership and future career opportunities. The partnership builds on the longstanding ties between Deloitte and J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics at the University, which dates back to the establishment of the BComm (Global Experience) degree. It also cements Deloitte’s commitment to supporting education and academic excellence in the Connacht region. In this new partnership, Deloitte will celebrate academic excellence across Bachelor of Commerce programmes by supporting Global Scholars, who study abroad as part of their degree, and by providing tailored mentorship and travel bursaries. A scholarship is also being created, led by Deloitte employees, which is designed to empower students in their learning and career development, while a bespoke Deloitte business challenge and internship programme is also being established. The partnership will see a dedicated collaboration hub within the BizHub at J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, which is designed to foster creativity and innovation, encourage collaboration and promote excellence in teamwork. Commenting on the partnership, Harry Goddard, CEO, Deloitte Ireland, said: "Investing in tomorrow’s leaders is critical for us at Deloitte. This partnership will develop the talent required to address the complex challenges faced by industries and institutions across the world. It will help to empower and prepare our future leaders for the future world of work.” Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, President of University of Galway, said: “One of our core values at University of Galway is excellence and the partnership that we are announcing with Deloitte today speaks to that. It is a shining example of leadership in action, where those who have gone before our students are creating more opportunities for them to excel and achieve.” Professor Alma McCarthy, Dean of the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, said: “This Deloitte partnership centrally aligns with both our School mission, to make a transformative impact for our students, and our core values of openness and excellence. The new multi-dimensional partnership provides our students with excellent real-world learning experiences, scholarships and supports for international study which will set our students apart.” Sinead Gogan, Chief Human Resources Officer at Deloitte Ireland, said: ‘’As the largest professional services firm globally, we understand the importance of growth through international experience and early access to the work environment alongside academic learning. Our collaboration will offer high performing University of Galway students an exceptional opportunity to connect with leading Deloitte professionals and alumni.’’ Ends

Is cúis mhór áthais é d’Ionad Léann na hÉireann, Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, a fhógairt go bhfuil Mairéad Ní Fhlatharta as Baile an tSléibhe sa Spidéal ceaptha mar Amhránaí Cónaitheach Sean-nóis san ollscoil i mbliana.    Tá Mairéad ag gabháil don amhránaíocht ó thosnaigh sí ag freastal ar ranganna sean-nóis sa Ghaelacadamh agus í seacht mbliana d’aois. I measc na múinteoirí a roinn a gcuid eolais léi go flaithiúil, bhí Pat Phádraic Tom Ó Conghaile agus Peatsaí Ó Ceannabháin nach maireann. Chomh maith leis an oiliúint a fuair sí uathusan, tá anáil Sheosaimh Uí Éanaí agus Dharach Uí Chatháin le clos i nguth Mhairéide agus í ag amhrán. Ina dteannta san, luann sí féin an rian a d’fhág Dara Bán agus Caitlín Maude uirthi as a hóige.   Bhí an méid seo le rá ag Mairéad: “Bíonn mé faoi dhraíocht ag na hamhráin sean-nóis, idir fhoinn agus fhocail. Is fada liom go mbeidh deis agam saibhreas filíochta na nGael, chomh maith leis an ghrá agus na téamaí éagsúla eile as amhráin na ndaoine a roinnt go fial le linn mo sheal mar amhránaí cónaitheach ag Ollscoil na Gaillimhe.”   Agus an ceapachán á fhógairt aici, deir an Dr Méabh Ní Fhuartháin: “Is gné fíorthábhachtach den obair atá ar siúl againn anseo an nasc beo atá againn leis an traidisiún amhránaíochta agus gnéithe eile den gcultúr dúchais béil i nGaeltacht Chonamara. Bhí sé de phribhléid againn cuid de na hamhránaithe ba chumasaí ar fad a bheith ag obair láimh ar láimh linn ó bunaíodh an scéim seo 20 bliain ó shin agus níl aon amhras orm ná go gcuirfidh Mairéad Ní Fhlatharta leis an oidhreacht shaibhir sin.”   Beidh sraith ceardlann á múineadh ag Mairéad san Ollscoil san Earrach agus arís sa bhFómhar. Cuirfear tús leis na ceardlanna i seomra seimineáir an Ionaid ar Bhóthar na Drioglainne ar an 28 Feabhra ag 6pm. Tá na ceardlanna saor in aisce agus beidh fáilte roimh chách.    Is iad Ealaín na Gaeltachta, Údarás na Gaeltachta, An Chomhairle Ealaíon agus Ionad Léann na hÉireannaigh, Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, a mhaoiníonn an tionscnamh seo.    Tuilleadh eolais ó Samantha Williams ag 091 492051 nó  samantha.williams@universityofgalway.ie   Críoch

University of Galway’s Centre for Irish Studies has announced the appointment of Mairéad Ní Fhlatharta from Baile an tSléibhe, An Spidéal, as Sean-Nós Singer-in-Residence for 2024.    Mairéad has been singing since she began attending classes at An Gaelacadamh at the age of seven. Amongst the teachers who shared their deep knowledge of the tradition with her, she mentions the formative influence of the late Pat Phádraic Tom Ó Conghaile and Peatsaí Ó Ceannabháin. With their encouragement, she has also incorporated elements of the singing of Seosamh Ó hÉanaí and Darach Ó Catháin into her own distinctive style, and mentions Dara Bán and Caitlín Maude as seminal influences on her approach to sean-nós songs.   Mairéad said: “I am spellbound by both the words and the music of the sean-nós songs and I can’t wait to share the richness of Irish language poetry as well as the love and other themes from the Gaeltacht tradition during my time as Singer-in-Residence at the University of Galway.”   Announcing the appointment, Dr Méabh Ní Fhuartháin, Head of Irish Studies at the University of Galway, said: “The living link with the sean-nós song tradition and other aspects of the vernacular arts of the Conamara Gaeltacht are a key element of the work we do here. We have had the privilege of working with some of the finest exponents of the Gaeltacht arts since this scheme was established 20 years ago and I have no doubt that Mairéad Ní Fhlatharta will make a significant contribution to that distinguished tradition.”   Mairéad will deliver a series of workshops at University of Galway beginning on Wednesday February 28 at 6pm.  The workshops are free and open to the public.      This project is funded by Ealaín na Gaeltachta, Údarás na Gaeltachta and An Chomhairle Ealaíon in association with the Centre for Irish Studies at University of Galway.   For further information, contact Samantha Williams by phone at 091 492051 or by email at samantha.williams@universityofgalway.ie.   Ends

University of Galway has secured €814,000 under a special funding programme to improve access to higher education and learning for people with intellectual disability. The award was announced by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris T.D. at an event with the Higher Education Authority in Dublin. The funding will enable the University to put in place a new programme for students with intellectual disability called Cumas - a Foundational Certificate in Learning and Community. The aim of the programme is to provide students with a third level learning experience which will develop their knowledge, social engagement and employment prospects. Speaking about the funding, Minister Harris said: “Today, we are making a change. Today we are opening doors and opportunities so that these learners can take their place among our college communities. These courses have been designed with the learner at heart. When given the opportunity, students with an intellectual disability can thrive. Access to higher education can lead to employment. It can transform the lives of students and their families as well as society as a whole.” Imelda Byrne, Head of the Access Centre at University of Galway, said: “This is a very inspiring time for University of Galway. We in the Access Centre are really thrilled to be allocated funding from the Higher Education Authority to pilot Cumas. This funding will enable the University to develop a high-quality, well-resourced programme for people with intellectual disabilities, people that have been traditionally excluded from Higher Education. Our University is signalling a commitment to the principle that Higher Education is and should be accessible to all.” The funding is being provided over three years under phase 2 of PATH 4 of the National Access Plan, which highlights the need to improve and increase representation in higher education for students with a disability, including students with autism and those with an intellectual disability. It builds on support from the HEA for the University’s multi-sensory room, which was opened last September, as part of efforts to make the Galway city campus more inclusive and sensory friendly. The project was supported by the HEA’s Fund for Students with Disabilities and HEA PATH 4 Phase 1. University of Galway students on Cumas will take part in social activities and academic classes with students without intellectual disabilities, as well as participating in classes with other students with intellectual disabilities. The programme will provide students with work experience through placement opportunities.  While the primary aims of the programme caters to the students and their needs, it is also envisioned that the University of Galway community and the wider community will benefit by developing a greater understanding and appreciation of the potential of people with intellectual disabilities. Ends 

University of Galway plays host to the prestigious Electric Ireland Third Level Camogie Championship Finals this weekend, as the senior team seeks to end a six-year wait to win the Purcell Cup.   The finals take place at the Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence in Bekan, Co Mayo, with 11 fixtures to be played across four grades, including in the University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome.   University of Galway’s senior Camogie team last won the Purcell Cup in 2018 and this year take on Mary Immaculate in the semi-final on Saturday February 10th at 3pm.    Some 23 of the 29 players on the senior panel come from Galway clubs and the remainder from Kilkenny, Clare and Derry. The side is captained jointly by current senior Galway goalkeeper Fiona Ryan and 2022 All Ireland winner Tiffanie Fitzgerald (Kilkenny).    The junior team compete in the Uí Mhaolagáin Cup Final on Saturday at 6pm.      University of Galway President Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh said: “I would like to extend a warm welcome to the students, coaches, volunteers and supporters who are travelling from all over the country to the 2024 Ashbourne, Purcell, Meachair, Uí Mhaolaghain and Aisling Murphy  festival of camogie. I would also like to wish University of Galway players and coaches every success this weekend. It is a great privilege for us to host the competitions for the first time since 2018 and it is an even greater privilege for us to be able to invite all the teams to compete in such first-rate facilities. Our partnership with Connacht GAA is going from strength to strength and we hope all those involved in this prestigious sporting event get great enjoyment from playing at such a quality venue, including the University of Galway Connacht GA Air Dome.”   Speaking ahead of the finals weekend, club chairperson Muireann O’Reilly said: “We are delighted to be hosting the Electric Ireland Third Level Camogie Championship Finals weekend and to welcome all teams. As one of the oldest clubs on campus University of Galway Camogie Club has a long tradition and we are honoured and privileged to carry on that tradition. We are delighted to have two teams in action and we would like to thank Connacht GAA for their assistance in hosting the event. I would also like to thank our club sponsors, Aerogen, for coming on board this year and supporting us in our efforts on and off the field.”      Acting Director of Sport at the University of Galway, Feargal O’Callaghan, said: “University of Galway Camogie Club has put in a tremendous effort over the last couple of years and we are hoping for some good results here this weekend with a view to taking camogie in the University to the next level.  We’re delighted to be playing in the University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome and we thank Connacht GAA for the use of their fantastic facilities. I would like to wish all teams competing this weekend the best of luck. I would like to thank all our players for the dedication they have shown, our coaching and management team for all the hard work they have put into preparing the girls this season and finally a thank you to our sponsors Aerogen for their valuable support.”     For all info see www.camogie.ie and stay tuned for updates by following @Camogie_OG, @ElectricIreland and through using #FirstClassRivals.   Ends

A University of Galway delegation has taken part in a national fact-finding mission as part of Ireland’s proposal for membership of CERN – the European Organization for Nuclear Research, where physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe.    Professor James Livesey, University of Galway’s Vice-President for Research and Innovation, and Dr Aaron Golden, Vice-Dean for Research and Innovation, at the University’s College of Science & Engineering, visited the world's largest particle physics laboratory as part of an Irish delegation.   An intergovernmental organisation based in Geneva near the border between Switzerland and France, CERN has 23 member states. Almost 3000 people are employed on the huge campus which every year plays hosts about 12,000 people from scientific institutions from more than 70 countries.   CERN currently operates the most powerful particle accelerator in the world, the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), where proton beams moving at a fraction of the speed of light are smashed together, recreating, for an instant, explosions of energy that have only ever occurred at the origin of the universe, unlocking the fundamental constituents of matter. Vast experiments sweep up the blizzard of fragments, and painstakingly identify new physics - in the form of new types of matter.    Work at CERN has resulted in no less than 5 Nobel prizes to date, most recently for the discovery of the Higgs Boson in 2012.    Professor James Livesey, Vice-President for Research and Innovation, said: "This visit really emphasised to us all on the delegation the incredible value to University of Galway that Irish membership of CERN would bring, across so many levels. It is difficult to identify any other scientific facility in Europe that is such a source of wonder and inspiration and CERN's outreach mission is second to none. The creativity in physics and mathematics essential to understanding the most fundamental science possible using the LHC is mirrored in the creativity needed by the engineering and technical teams to build and operate these astonishing 'discovery machines'. Having Galway in the community of practice around CERN would make us members of one of the most creative and innovative groups in the world.”   The Irish delegation took part in a day-long visit to CERN, including tours of several of the currently operating particle and nuclear physics experiments on the campus, along with presentations and Q&A sessions with CERN personnel, highlighting the breadth of activities to which membership would give access to.   Beyond its core mission of pushing the frontier of fundamental physics, CERN is heavily involved in the application of technology transfer to areas as diverse as algorithm development, network and computational infrastructure, materials science and medical physics.    CERN operates a unique access programme for members, that provides funding for undergraduates, postgraduates and researchers to visit and work on site in areas that cover the full spectrum of its activities, with the graduate engineering training programmes being widely considered one of the best in Europe.    Dr Aaron Golden, Vice-Dean for Research and Innovation, College of Science & Engineering said: "It was eye-opening to find out directly CERN's medtech innovation activities, from novel radiotherapeutics to medical device development to tumour biology modelling, and their support of member state colleagues in these areas. The University of Galway is uniquely placed to engage with such access, particularly with the recent opening of UHG's Saolta Radiation Oncology Centre."   CERN will be sending a delegation to visit Ireland in April of this year to assess Ireland's application for membership.    Ends

BioInnovate Ireland, the specialist medical device and health technology innovation programme at University of Galway, has launched its latest search for future healthcare innovators. The programme, which is formally affiliated to Stanford BioDesign and co-funded by the University and Enterprise Ireland, is hosting a special online event for anyone interested on Thursday February 8th from 7pm-8pm.  Anyone interested can register on Eventbrite by following a link to the webinar on www.bioinnovate.ie Dr Sinéad Walsh, Director of Operations at BioInnovate Ireland, explained the purpose of the event: “BioInnovate Ireland is committed to cultivating the next generation of healthcare leaders and entrepreneurs. Each year we welcome applications to the programme from diverse backgrounds, including clinical - all healthcare professionals; technical - engineers, scientists, data analysts, designers;  commercial - business, MBA graduates, marketing leaders; and other highly motivated individuals interested in healthcare innovation.  “The information evening is the perfect opportunity to explore the programme, hear from distinguished alumni and current fellows, and find out about the transformative impact the programme has had. To date, we have trained 148 Fellows and their work with us has led to 33 new start-up companies that have created new technologies which have benefitted more than 4,000 patients and raised more than €250million in private and public funding.” Marina Donohoe, Head of Research and Innovation, Enterprise Ireland, said: “Enterprise Ireland is committed to supporting the development of Irish-owned companies on their journey to achieving greater scale and to become global leaders in their field. Pioneering Irish innovators are playing a transformative role in the delivery of healthcare solutions around the world.  "In particular, BioInnovate Ireland is an important part of the ecosystem which fosters the development of these companies, and we would encourage interested innovators to engage with this event to learn more about how this programme can support your career ambition and provide an ideal platform to an exciting new start-up journey.  "Enterprise Ireland is proud to support BioInnovate, through the Innovators Initiative ‘Pioneering Smart Futures’ education and training programme, which is funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Northern and Western Regional Programme (2021-2027).” Professor Martin O’Halloran is the Executive Director of BioInnovate Ireland, outlined the programme structure: “The BioInnovate programme is affiliated with Stanford BioDesign and has three key stages - identify, invent and implement. It guides multidisciplinary teams through a full cycle of innovation, from identifying need, to designing and prototyping viable solutions, as well as securing funding.”  BioInnovate Alumna Camille O’Malley is Co-Founder and Chief Technical Officer of XTremedy Medical, said: “The BioInnovate programme is a unique opportunity to explore the medtech entrepreneurship space. It offers candidates the chance to break into new career spaces and grow an expert network with the local and global medtech space. Alumni to date have gone on to found some of Ireland’s highest potential start-ups,  develop breakthrough innovations for patients, lead venture capital teams and beyond.” The BioInnovate fellowship is a fully funded 10-month programme supported by Enterprise Ireland. It offers fellows with a tax-free monthly stipend of €3,800 and covers programme fees. BioInnovate Ireland is supported under the Innovators’ Initiative Programme co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the Northern and Western Regional Programme 2021-2027. Ends

Preparatory works have begun today on the site of the new Library and Learning Commons for University of Galway.   The landmark development at the heart of the campus will offer a new, high-tech space for students, for research and for staff, with a focus on enabling learning that is more collaborative, more technology-enhanced and more creative, as well as providing access to books and information.   Enabling works are taking place on the riverside site off Distillery Road ahead of the demolition of buildings and sheds and site clearance in the coming weeks.   President of University of Galway, Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, said: “Today marks a momentous day in the history of the development of the University of Galway campus. Libraries are central to the life of any university, in the heart of our city and community. It is more than 50 years since the University Library was built. Now we look ahead with anticipation and excitement at what will be a state-of-the-art facility – true to our values of openness, excellence, respect, sustainability - and a focal point for research, teaching and learning for the benefit of our students, researchers and staff for decades to come.   ”The highest standards of planning and engagement have been central to the Library and Learning Commons project and as we mark the early stages of the site-works I want again to express the enormous debt of gratitude which we owe to the colleagues who are leading and driving it and all those inside and outside of our university community who are supporting the development. Exciting times ahead.”   Monica Crump, Interim University Librarian, said: “This week is truly a milestone for our entire university community as we journey towards a new Library and Learning Commons.  This flagship building will sit at the heart of our University linking the North and South campuses and it will be a place for all members of our community to come together, to collaborate, to learn and to create. It is exciting for staff and students and we have no doubt that the progress in the coming weeks and months will capture the imagination as such a key riverside site will be transformed.”   University of Galway’s current Library was constructed in 1973 and sits at the heart of the Hardiman Building in the centre of the South Campus. The most recent major redevelopment in the Library took place in 1999. Planning permission for the Library and Learning Commons was confirmed in summer 2023 for the riverside site off Distillery Road, next to the University’s Sports Centre. It will be an exciting new, sustainable, modern, iconic building - home to a library of the future.    The building was designed by RKD Architects. It will range in height from four to six storeys with study space, including quiet, individual and collaborative areas; a makerspace and scholarship centre enabling digital creativity; the Library’s book and journal collections, many of which will be stored in a Bookbot or high-density, automated storage system; spaces for exhibitions, events and teaching; a welcome zone enabling community engagement; a helpdesk; and spaces for student wellbeing including low-sensory study spaces, a café and relaxation and outdoor spaces. Ends