January

University of Galway has been named as one of the top universities in Europe, according to the QS World University Rankings: Europe 2026. For the third year in a row the Europe-wide rankings have placed University of Galway in the top bracket in Europe out of 958 institutions across 42 locations. The QS European Rankings builds on the reputation that University of Galway has achieved in recent years for progress on sustainability in the QS European ranking’s Top 50 for Sustainability; the number one university in Ireland in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings and in the world’s top 50 for progress towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). President of University of Galway, Professor David Burn, said: “Being ranked in the top 100 universities in Europe for the third year in a row is a wonderful endorsement. These annual rankings allow us to benchmark ourselves against our national and international peers and to assess our individual institutional performance across a range of datasets. I am delighted to see ranking successes in our academic reputation, employment outcomes, citations per paper and outbound exchange students. “In line with our University strategy 2025-2030, Of Galway, For the World, we are determined to build on our international reputation and reach, while serving our students and community through four pillars: Innovation of Health; Creativity, Culture and Society; Sustainable and Resilient Environments, Earth and Ocean; and Transformative Data and AI. “I would like to commend the effort by our University community in aligning our values of respect, excellence, openness, sustainability and belonging to our education and research outputs and impacts. University of Galway will continue to adapt to societal demands in a multidisciplinary approach that benefits our region, the island of Ireland and internationally, while equipping our students with the skills they need.” QS Senior Vice President Ben Sowter said: “Europe’s higher education sector remains strong, underpinned by world-class research universities, strong international collaboration, and growing momentum behind transnational alliances and joint degrees. Cross-border mobility remains a defining strength. However, funding and research capacity vary widely between national systems, contributing to uneven performance and talent retention. At the same time, universities face mounting pressure to sustain research excellence, deepen industry engagement, and modernise governance and delivery models amid funding deficits and tightening policy around international mobility.” University of Galway saw increases in the QS ranking in its Academic Reputation, Employment Outcomes, Citations per Paper and Outbound Exchange Students, placing it 98th out of almost 1,000 institutions.The full rankings can be found at:  www.topuniversities.com/europe-university-rankings.  Ends

Researchers at University of Galway have secured prestigious funding support through the European Research Council (ERC) to progress projects on next-generation 3D printing and hydrogel pain relief therapy. They are among 136 projects across Europe which have been awarded ERC Proof of Concept grants to explore how scientific results can move towards practical application or early commercial use. One project will advance an innovative software platform that enables engineers to design lighter, stronger, and more efficient components optimised for 3D printing - additive manufacturing - across biomedical, automotive and aerospace applications. The new technology offers unprecedented freedom to create complex and lightweight parts as many products are still designed using approaches developed for traditional manufacturing, limiting performance and increasing material waste. The research team will address this gap by developing a new, easy-to-use design approach that brings design and production considerations together in one simple process, helping engineers move quickly from an idea to a part that is ready to print and use in the real world. The 3D printing project is led by Professor Ted Vaughan, Director of the Institute for Health Discovery and Innovation and Professor of Biomedical Engineering, alongside Dr Mahtab Vafaeefar, Postdoctoral Researcher in Biomedical Engineering at University of Galway. The second project is Uro-Lieve, a minimally invasive, biodegradable capsaicin hydrogel designed to selectively silence pain fibres as a therapy for relief from symptoms of painful bladder syndrome, known as interstitial cystitis. The new approach avoids the severe burning of current treatments. The research is led by Professor Martin O’ Halloran, Principal Investigator in the College of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences and Executive Director of the BioInnovate Programme at University of Galway. This latest accolade for Professor O’Halloran brings his total ERC awards to eight, making him the joint highest-awarded Ireland-based ERC awardee.  The projects are the only two from Ireland to have been recognised with Proof of Concepts awards in this ERC round. Professor Ted Vaughan, University of Galway, said: “The ERC Proof of Concept programme provides a vital bridge between discovery and application, enabling researchers to translate frontier science into real-world impact and we are delighted to build on our research and bring its benefits closer to industry and society. “Too often, we simply ‘print’ conventional designs rather than truly exploiting the capabilities of additive manufacturing. Our goal is to provide intuitive tools that automatically generate high-performance, production-ready designs that are truly functionally tailored to each application, reducing costs, saving material and accelerating innovation.” The software builds on biomimetic principles derived from models developed during Professor Vaughan’s European Research Council Starting Grant, taking inspiration from how nature designs complex structure and translating these insights into industry-ready design tools that will enable lightweight, efficient, and high-performance components across a range of engineering applications. Professor Martin O' Halloran, University of Galway, said: “Painful bladder syndrome (interstitial cystitis) is a chronic, underdiagnosed condition marked by persistent bladder pain, urgency, and frequency, with profound impacts on quality of life, mental health, and economic productivity. This proposal introduces Uro-Lieve, a minimally invasive, biodegradable capsaicin hydrogel designed to selectively silence pain fibres while avoiding the severe burning of current treatments. It highlights a major unmet clinical need and the broader structural neglect of women’s pain in research and healthcare.” Ekaterina Zaharieva, European Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation, said: “The discoveries emerging from ERC-funded research are very often more than academic breakthroughs. They form the bedrock of future innovation ecosystems across Europe, inspiring new technologies, businesses and societal solutions. I am pleased that the EU is funding a record number of Proof of Concept Grants this year, and I congratulate all the grantees on their success.” The European Research Council Proof of Concept scheme is funded under Horizon Europe, the EU’s framework programme for research and innovation. It provides grants to existing ERC grant holders to bridge the gap between pioneering research and early-stage commercial or societal application. Ends

Tá Ospidéal na mBéiríní, a bhfuil gradaim buaite aige, á eagrú arís ag mic léinn in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe don 21ú bliain as a chéile. Bhí breis is 1,200 páiste bunscoile i láthair don imeacht dhá lá seo, áit ar cuireadh ‘cóir leighis’ san ospidéal ar a mbeiríní a bhí ‘tinn’ nó ‘gortaithe’. An Cumann Sláinte a d’eagraigh an t-ospidéal, arb é cumann cothaithe sláinte Ollscoil na Gaillimhe é a fhéachann le gach gné den tsláinte, idir fhisiciúil agus mheabhrach, a chur chun cinn. Bhí isteach is amach le 200 mac léinn leighis, cúraim sláinte agus eolaíochta i láthair ar bhonn deonach agus iad ag feidhmiú mar oibrithe cúraim sláinte chun béiríní na Gaillimhe a dhiagnóisiú agus cóir leighis a chur orthu. Tá súil acu go gcuideoidh an ócáid le páistí a bheith ar a suaimhneas le dochtúirí nó i dtimpeallacht ospidéil.             Bhí an méid seo a leanas le rá ag Aoibhe Treacy, mac léinn leighis sa chúigiú bliain in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe agus comh-iniúchóir an Chumainn Sláinte: “Cumann a fhéachann leis an tsláinte a chur chun cinn atá ionainn, agus an aidhm atá againn an faitíos agus an imní a bhíonn ar roinnt leanaí nuair a bhíonn orthu dul chuig an ospidéal nó ag an dochtúir a laghdú.             “Tionscnamh é seo atá go hiomlán faoi stiúir oibrithe deonacha, idir bhaill an choiste agus dochtúirí na mBéiríní, agus fáilte á cur againn roimh isteach is amach le 1,200 páiste ó mhórcheantar na Gaillimhe. Táimid bródúil as imeacht atá go hiomlán cuimsitheach agus inrochtana a bheith á chur ar fáil againn.” Tá béiríní á dtabhairt chuig an ospidéal ag páistí i gcaitheamh na mblianta agus iad ag samhlú go raibh réimse leathan tinnis ag gabháil dóibh, leithéidí cluasa tinne, boilg bhreoite, lámha nó cosa briste agus gach cineál easláinte neamhghnách agus dúshlánach eile faoin spéir. Labhróidh na páistí le duine de na dochtúirí béiríní tar éis dóibh a theacht i láthair ag Ospidéal na mBéiríní ar an gcampas. Déanann na dochtúirí na ‘hothair’ a scrúdú, tugtar oideas dóibh nó cuirtear ar aghaidh iad le haghaidh obráide nó X-gha. Tá trealamh saincheaptha X-gha agus MRI ar fáil do bhéirín ar bith a dteastaíonn sé uathu.  Beidh na béiríní atá ag teacht chucu féin in ann ábhair leighis a fháil i gCógaslann na mBéiríní, áit a mbeidh torthaí sláintiúla le fáil a bhuíochas le Total Produce agus Fyffes, mar aon le hábhair leighis urraithe ag Cógaslann Matt O’Flaherty. Is iad urraitheoirí an imeachta an Medical Protection Society, Boston Scientific, KSG, Vernon Medical agus Apache Pizza.             Seo mar a labhair Ríona Hughes, Oifigeach na gCumann in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe: “Ceann dár n-imeachtaí for-rochtana móra is ea Ospidéal na mBéiríní arna reáchtáil ag an gCumann Sláinte trína gcothaítear caidreamh leis an bpobal níos leithne agus sonas ar an gcampas. Deis iontach atá ann do mhic léinn, go háirithe mic léinn leighis agus sna heolaíochtaí sláinte, bualadh le páistí agus iad a chur ar a suaimhneas go bhfuil an chóir leighis a theastaíonn óna mbéiríní á fáil acu le go mbeidh siad in ann teacht chucu féin ó na tinnis éagsúla atá ag cur as dóibh. Tarraingíonn imeachtaí cosúil leis an gceann seo aird ar shamhlaíocht, diongbháilteacht agus spiorad comhpháirteachais ár gcuid cumann, agus ar thiomantas na hOllscoile naisc dhaingne a chothú leis an bpobal níos leithne. Comhghairdeas leo siúd ar fad a bhfuil baint acu leis.”

For the 21st year running, University of Galway has opened its doors for its award-winning, student-led, Teddy Bear Hospital. The two-day event saw more than 1,200 “sick and injured” teddy bears admitted to the hospital, accompanied by their minders - 1,200 primary school children. Organised by the Sláinte Society, University of Galway’s health promotion society that focuses on promoting all aspects of physical and mental health, up to 200 medical, healthcare and science students volunteered as front-line healthcare workers to diagnose and treat teddy bears from across Galway. In the process, they hope to help children feel more comfortable around doctors and hospitals.             Aoibhe Treacy, a fifth-year medicine student at University of Galway and co-auditor of Sláinte Society, said: “We are a health promotion society, so we hope to reduce the fear and anxiety experienced by some children when visiting the hospital or going to the doctors.             “We are a fully volunteer-led initiative, both committee and Teddy Doctors, welcoming about 1,200 children from around Galway, and we pride ourselves on ensuring a fully inclusive and accessible event.” Over the years, children have been bringing their teddy bears suffering from an imaginative range of ailments, including sore ears, sick tummies, broken limbs, and all kinds of other weird, wonderful and challenging conditions. Upon arrival at the Teddy Bear Hospital on campus, each child is given an individual consultation with one of the teddy doctors on call. The ‘patients’ are examined by the doctors and receive a ‘pawscription’ and referral to surgery or x-ray, with specially designed X-ray and MRI machines available for any teddy bears that need them. Recuperating teddy bears could avail of medical supplies from the Teddy Bear Pharmacy, stocked with healthy fruit from Total Produce and Fyffes, along with medical supplies sponsored by Matt O’Flaherty Chemist. Sponsorship for the event is provided by the Medical Protection Society, Boston Scientific, KSG, Vernon Medical and Apache Pizza.             Ríona Hughes, University of Galway’s Societies Officer, said: “Teddy Bear Hospital organised by Sláinte Society is one of our flagship society outreach events, which engages with the wider community and brings joy to the campus. It is a wonderful opportunity for students, particularly in medicine and health sciences, to meet children and reassure them that their teddies are getting the treatment they need to recover from their various illnesses. Events like this highlight the imagination, determination and civic spirit of our societies and the University's commitment to forging solid links with the wider community, Congratulations to all involved.” Ends

Tá Ollscoil na Gaillimhe ag tabhairt cuireadh do dhaoine atá ag smaoineamh ar thabhairt faoin gcéad chéim eile ina saol acadúil nó ina saol gairmiúil tuilleadh eolais a fháil faoi na roghanna atá acu ag an Lá Oscailte Iarchéime. Beidh an ócáid eolais speisialta seo ar siúl i Halla Bailey Allen ar an gcampas Déardaoin, an 29 Eanáir. Beidh fáilte roimh mhic léinn reatha agus roimh an bpobal ag an dá sheisiún a bheidh ar siúl ó 12-2pm agus ó 5-7pm. Beidh eolas le fáil ag an Lá Oscailte faoi bhreis agus 160 clár iarchéime lánaimseartha agus páirtaimseartha, céimeanna máistreachta múinte agus taighde agus roghanna PhD san áireamh. Beidh eolas le fáil faoi chúrsaí solúbtha ar líne agus faoi chúrsaí foghlama cumaisc ag an ócáid freisin, a d’oirfeadh do dhaoine atá ag céimeanna éagsúla dá ngairm bheatha. Beidh deis ag na cuairteoirí labhairt le comhaltaí foirne acadúla, le mic léinn iarchéime reatha agus le foirne seirbhísí gairmiúla. Beidh eolas ar fáil faoi ábhair, riachtanais iontrála, conairí gairme, roghanna maoinithe agus próiseas iarratais na gcúrsaí. Bhí an méid seo le rá ag Caroline Duggan, Ceannasaí Earcaíochta Fochéime agus Iarchéime Ollscoil na Gaillimhe: “Tá cumhacht ag baint le staidéar iarchéime, cé acu an mac léinn thú atá díreach i ndiaidh do bhunchéim a bhaint amach nó má tá tú ag filleadh ar an ollscoil chun scileanna nua a fhoghlaim nó le tabhairt faoi chonair ghairme nua.” Ar chláir na hOllscoile seo gheobhaidh tú saineolas ar an ábhar, gheobhaidh tú taithí phraiticiúil ar an réimse atá i gceist trí shocrúcháin agus intéirneachtaí, agus déanfaidh tú na scileanna a shealbhú a theastaíonn ó chéimithe chun go n-éireoidh leo san fhórsa saothair domhanda atá ag síorathrú.” Cuireann Ollscoil na Gaillimhe cláir iarchéime ar fáil i ndisciplíní éagsúla, mar shampla, na Dána agus na Daonnachtaí, Gnó, an Dlí, an Eolaíocht, an Innealtóireacht, Ríomheolaíocht, Leigheas, na hEolaíochtaí Sláinte, agus Altranas. Beidh eolas ar fáil faoi scoláireachtaí agus maoiniú ag an lá oscailte, agus ina measc tá Scoláireacht €1,500 Máistreachta Múinte na hOllscoile do mhic léinn ón AE a bhaineann bunchéim céadonóracha amach. Is féidir clárú don lá oscailte iarchéime anois ag www.universityofgalway.ie/postgraduate-open-day. Críoch  

Award-winning 2025-26 Sean-Nós Singer-in-Residence at University of Galway Orla Ní Fhinneadha will lead a second series of sean-nós singing workshops.  The workshops begin on Thursday January 29th at 6pm, and will continue on 5, 12, 19, and 26 February in the Seminar Room at the Centre for Irish Studies, Distillery Road, University of Galway.  All sessions are free and open to everyone. Hailing from An Chloich Mhór, Baile na hAbhann, Co Galway, Orla Ní Fhinneadha began singing as a child, inspired by sean-nós classes with Máire Pheitir Uí Dhroighneáin, a former University of Galway singer-in-residence, and her father, Jimi Ó Fhinneadha.  Orla’s teaching skills gained widespread recognition during the Covid pandemic through a series of videos for Cúla 4 ar Scoil, which continue to help children learn traditional Irish songs today.  Dr Méabh Ní Fhuartháin, Head of Irish Studies at University of Galway, said: “Orla is one of the singers of our generation who is focused on the tradition. The richness of her place and her family can be heard in every note.”  This project is funded by Ealaín na Gaeltachta, Údarás na Gaeltachta and An Chomhairle Ealaíon in association with the Centre for Irish Studies at the University of Galway.  Further information available from Samantha Williams at 091 492051 or samantha.williams@universityofgalway.ie.     Ends

Cuirfidh Orla Ní Fhinneadha tús leis an dara sraith de cheardlanna amhránaíochta ar an sean-nós in Ionad Léann na hÉireann, Ollscoil na Gaillimhe.  Beidh na ceardlanna a reachtáil ar Dé Déardaoin, 29 Eanaír, agus 5, 12, 19, 26 Feabhra i seomra seimineáir an Ionaid ar Bhóthar na Drioglainne ag a 6pm.  Tá na ceardlanna saor in aisce agus beidh fáilte roimh chách.  As an gCloich Mhór, Baile na hAbhann, ceapadh Orla mar Amhránaí Cónaitheach Sean-nóis san ollscoil i 2025. Le go leor duaisanna buaite aici, tá sí ag gabháil don amhránaíocht ó thosnaigh sí ag freastal ar ranganna sean-nóis le Máire Pheitir Uí Dhroighneáin agus sí ar bhunscoil. Bhí an-tionchar ag Máire uirthi chomh maith le hathair Orla féin, Jimi Ó Fhinneadha.  Tá an-éileamh ar Orla mar mhúinteoir sean-nóis. Léiríodh na scileanna seo go soiléir sna físeáin a cruthaíodh do Cúla 4 ar Scoil ina raibh sí ag múineadh amhrán le linn thréimhse Covid. Tá Orla an-bhródúil go bhfuil go leor páistí fós ag breathnú agus ag foghlaim ó na hamhráin áille a thaifead sí i rith an ama sin.         Deir an Dr Méabh Ní Fhuartháin, Ceann an Ionaid: “Is duine des na h-amhránaithe ár linne atá dírithe istigh ar an dtraidisiún í Orla. Tá saibhreas a ceanntair agus a clainn le clois i ngach aon nóta.”  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

Red Squirrel Appreciation Day marks the start of a nationwide citizen science effort to track squirrels and pine martens across the island of Ireland   To celebrate Red Squirrel Appreciation Day, the 2026 All-Ireland Squirrel and Pine Marten Survey is officially launching today. The initiative is an invitation to members of the public to become Citizen Scientists and help track some of our most iconic woodland mammals. Led by researchers in University of Galway, Ulster Wildlife and the Vincent Wildlife Trust, the survey aims to map the latest distribution of red and grey squirrels, and the pine marten across the island of Ireland. Members of the public are invited to record their sightings of the three species throughout 2026, helping researchers build a detailed picture of how their populations are changing. The 2026 survey is being delivered with the support of the National Biodiversity Data Centre in the Republic of Ireland and CEDaR in Northern Ireland. Sightings of all three mammals can be recorded on the online survey forms hosted on their websites www.biodiversityireland.ie and www2.habitas.org.uk/records. The survey is part of a long-running monitoring programme, with previous surveys carried out on four occasions since 1997, providing vital insights into long-term trends and conservation success. The red squirrel is Ireland’s only native squirrel species, once widespread in forests and wooded areas. The introduction of the grey squirrel in 1911 has had devastating consequences on our native species through disease and competition for food, leading to the disappearance of red squirrels from large parts of the country. For many years, the future of the red squirrel looked bleak. However, recent surveys have revealed a remarkable and unexpected turnaround, with the grey squirrel being knocked back in certain areas, and the reds showing signs of recovery. In several regions, grey squirrel numbers have declined sharply, while red squirrels are showing encouraging signs of recovery. Research linked this shift to the successful comeback of another native species, the pine marten - tree dwelling carnivores and one of the few predators that can successfully hunt grey squirrels. Because the red squirrel evolved alongside pine martens, they are better adapted to avoiding them and can escape danger more easily.             Dr Colin Lawton of University of Galway’s School of Natural Sciences explained the significance of the new survey: “In our most recent survey in 2019, we found that the grey squirrel had all but disappeared from 10 midland counties, and the red squirrel and pine marten were doing particularly well.             “However, the dynamics between the three species is finely balanced and we need to continue to monitor the animals to make sure things don’t change again. The greys continue to spread in the south and northwest, and they are doing particularly well in urban areas, where pine martens are very rare.”             Katy Bell, Senior Conservation Officer at Ulster Wildlife, said: “Ulster Wildlife has been monitoring these three species for over a decade in Northern Ireland and is delighted to partner once again with the University of Galway to complete the picture on how these species are faring across Ireland. This data will be invaluable to the conservation work for red squirrel and pine marten in Ireland.”             Dr Lawton added: “During our last survey, we received an incredible 3,407 records of the three species from the public. This fantastic wealth of information plays a crucial role in protecting our native biodiversity. We are once again asking our Citizen Scientists to share their sightings, upload photographs and help us understand where these animals are living and how they are faring.” Ends

University of Galway is one of 10 partners in the €6.5 million PEACE-Air project which aims to reduce emissions from solid fuels, road transport and agriculture. PEACE-Air (Partnership for Evidence and Action on Clean Air) is an all-island initiative working to improve air quality and protect public health across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland through evidence-based policy, collaboration and innovation. University of Galway will lead research on air pollution from solid fuel burning with Queen’s University Belfast, to address the common challenge of delivering clean air to improve the health of citizens and the environment. The project focuses on generating robust evidence, supporting policy development and enabling practical actions that lead to cleaner air and better health outcomes for communities. The project was launched at ATU Donegal, marking the beginning of a major cross-border initiative supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). PEACE-Air will address three major sources of air pollution: solid fuel burning, transport emissions, and agricultural ammonia - through a structured programme of scientific research, behavioural insights, community outreach and policy support. The project brings together local authorities, universities, environmental agencies, health organisations and community groups from both jurisdictions, ensuring that its work is grounded in shared priorities and accessible evidence. Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers T.D., attended the launch and said: “I welcome the launch of the PEACE-Air project. Funded by the PEACEPLUS programme, PEACE-Air harnesses unique scientific and research capacity to address the shared cross-border challenge of air pollution. The work of PEACE-Air will help inform strategies to protect the natural environment and ensure clean air for people and communities across the island of Ireland. With a focus on strategic cross-border engagement, PEACE-Air exemplifies the positive public health and environmental impacts that can be achieved through effective North South collaboration.” A team from the Centre for Climate and Air Pollution Studies, Ryan Institute and School of Natural Sciences at University of Galway will lead the PEACE-Air research on Air Pollution from Solid Fuel Burning, Indoor Air Quality and Community Engagement. Professor Jurgita Ovadnevaite, Director of the Centre for Climate and Air Pollution Studies, University of Galway, said: “We are delighted to lead the solid fuels research project of this cross-border initiative that aims to tackle air pollution through strategic engagement, scientific research, and coordinated cross-border action to reduce emissions from solid fuel burning, road transport, and agriculture. “Air pollution does not respect boundaries and pollutants generated in one jurisdiction can negatively impact a neighbouring jurisdiction. However, the issues around air pollution are addressed by each jurisdiction separately and currently there is no cross-border clean air forum for local government, environment agencies, health agencies, policy makers and research scientists. Through the PEACE-Air project, development of joint strategies and aligned policies to reduce air pollution would bring greater efficacy in results.” Particulate matter (PM) is the key air pollutant that affects human health and mortality. Research conducted over the last decade has shown that the burning of solid fuels (coal, peat and wood) for home heating is the major source of PM in towns and cities across Ireland, especially during winter months. The seasonal dependence of PM pollution in Northern Ireland also indicates that residential solid fuel burning is a significant problem. In both jurisdictions, the pollution hot spots are in deprived areas which largely use coal or peat for heating, where fuel poverty is a significant issue. Road transport, and diesel vehicles in particular, are also a major source of PM in urban areas. Transport-related air pollution also includes nitrogen dioxide which is strongly linked with respiratory problems such as asthma. The other major common source of air pollution in Northern Ireland and Ireland is ammonia emissions from agricultural activity which contributes to secondary PM but also negatively impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem health.   Gina McIntyre, Chief Executive of SEUPB, said: “Air pollution is a shared challenge that knows no borders. PEACE-Air will be the first cross-border collaboration of its kind to tackle this challenge. “This funding demonstrates PEACEPLUS in action, bringing experts together to work on delivering positive change which will benefit the lives of so many people across our programme area by protecting and enhancing our natural environment.” Dr Caitriona Strain, General Manager of ERNACT, said: “ERNACT is proud to lead the PEACE-Air partnership and to support a project that places robust evidence, collaboration, and practical action at the centre of efforts to improve air quality across the island. Air pollution is a shared challenge that does not recognise borders, and PEACE-Air provides a unique opportunity to bring together research excellence, public authorities, and communities to inform policy and deliver real, long-term benefits for public health, the environment, and regional cooperation. This project will leave a lasting legacy through the development of a cross-border Strategy and Action Plan for Clean Air, grounded in science and shaped by those most affected.”  The PEACE-Air partnership consists of 10 core partners, including ERNACT (lead partner), Donegal County Council, Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, Queen’s University Belfast, University College Cork, TU Dublin, University of Galway, Ulster University, Trinity College Dublin, and the Institute of Public Health. Seven associate partners, including the EPA, NIEA, Asthma & Lung UK, the Irish Heart Foundation, and the Environmental Health Association of Ireland, will support delivery and contribute their specialist expertise. Further information can be found on www.peace-air.eu. Ends

University of Galway is inviting prospective students to explore their next academic or professional step at its upcoming Postgraduate Open Day. The special showcase takes place on Thursday January 29th, with two sessions from 12–2pm and 5–7pm, which are open to current students and the public, on campus in the Bailey Allen Hall. The Open Day will provide information on more than 160 full-time and part-time postgraduate programmes, including taught and research master’s degrees and PhD options. The event will also include information on flexible online and blended learning courses, supporting learners at different stages of their careers. Visitors will have the opportunity to speak directly with academic staff, current postgraduate students and professional services teams. Information will be available on course content, entry requirements, career pathways, funding options and the application process.             Caroline Duggan, Head of Undergraduate and Postgraduate Recruitment at University of Galway, said: “Postgraduate study can be a powerful step, whether you are progressing directly from undergraduate education or returning to university to upskill or change direction. Our programmes are designed to provide specialised knowledge, practical experience through placements and internships, and the skills graduates need to succeed in a rapidly evolving global workforce.” University of Galway offers postgraduate programmes across a range of disciplines, including Arts and Humanities, Business, Law, Science, Engineering, Computer Science, Medicine, Health Sciences, and Nursing. Information on scholarships and funding will be available on the day, including the University’s €1,500 Taught Master’s Scholarship for EU students who achieve a first-class honours degree at undergraduate level. Registration for the postgraduate open day is now open at www.universityofgalway.ie/postgraduate-open-day Ends

University of Galway has officially launched its 2025/26 Gaelic Games season at a special event celebrating its elite student-athletes and the future of the sport.  The event brought together players, sponsors, Gaelic Games committee members, and University staff to mark the start of Higher Education Championships and to showcase the University’s vision and ambitions for clubs and students involved in Gaelic Games.  The launch highlighted the University’s four codes - Senior Men’s Football, Senior Ladies Football, Hurling and Camogie - with a strong emphasis on working towards the development of the One Club Model, an innovative approach designed to strengthen unity, shared standards, and a collective identity across all clubs.  University of Galway’s Sport and Physical Activity Unit is working on a plan towards the One Club Model that will be sustainable and beneficial to all students interested in Gaelic Games. The event also highlighted the University’s dual aspirational ethos, creating opportunities for participants at every level, from beginners to high-performance athletes.               Des Ryan, Director of Sport and Physical Wellbeing at University of Galway, said: "The launch of our 2025/26 Gaelic Games championship season is an opportunity to bring everyone together and clearly communicate our vision for sport at University of Galway.  “We want to be the most progressive and caring university sports programme on the Island of Ireland. Our Gaelic Games clubs are a great example of this, and we look forward to going on a journey to a One Club Model that is built on firm foundations.  “The launch is also a great opportunity to thank our sponsors and celebrate an exciting period for student athletes. We want our players to feel fully supported as students and athletes, while enjoying their sport and striving for the highest standards across all four codes."  The event featured star players such as Eva Noone, Galway Ladies Footballer, Reitseal Kelly, Galway Senior Camogie player, Canice Mulligan, Sligo Senior Footballer, Matthew Thompson, Galway Senior Footballer, and Sam O’Farrell, Tipperary Senior Hurler.   Alongside these established names, the squads included a number of exciting young rising stars, including Shay McGlinchy and Aaron Niland, whose impressive performances at underage inter-county and club level highlight the depth of talent at University of Galway and its pivotal role in developing players across Men’s Football, Ladies Football, Hurling and Camogie.  The launch also acknowledged the continued commitment of the University’s Gaelic Games sponsors, club committees and volunteers, whose efforts remain central to the success, growth and sustainability of Gaelic Games across all four codes.  Ends

D’fhógair Ollscoil na Gaillimhe go n-ainmneofar a Leabharlann nua i gcuimhne ar an Dr Karen Guinee, céimí sa leigheas. Fuair an Dr Karen Guinee bás sa bhliain 2006, go gairid i ndiaidh di a cuid staidéir san Ollscoil a chríochnú. Cuimhnítear uirthi mar alumna cumasach agus tuisceanach a thug faoina cuid oideachais agus oiliúna mar dhochtúir le díograis agus dúthracht. Déantar an fógra faoi ainmniú Leabharlann an Dr Karen Guinee i ndiaidh dúinn bronntanas daonchairdiúil suntasach a fháil ó Fhondúireacht Charthanachta Michael Guinee, atá ag tacú freisin le bunú scoláireachta nua do mhic léinn leighis i gcuimhne ar an Dr Guinee. Gabhann Ollscoil na Gaillimhe buíochas ó chroí leis an bhFondúireacht agus déanaimid comhbhrón le muintir Guinee, agus beidh oidhreacht an Dr Karen Guinee beo i gcónaí de bharr an bhronntanais seo. Dúirt muintir Guinee: “Is cúis mhór bhróid dúinn, muintir Guinee, an fógra faoi ainmniú Leabharlann an Dr Karen Guinee in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe. Sciobadh Karen uainn go tragóideach beagnach 20 bliain ó shin, seachtain sular bhain sí céim amach mar dhochtúir. D’fhág a bás folús inár saol agus bhain tráma dothuigthe dúinn go léir mar theaghlach. Bhí Karen thar a bheith gealgháireach, cineálta, grámhar agus comhbhách. Airímid uainn í gach lá agus tuigeann gach duine a raibh aithne acu uirthi an folús atá fágtha ina diaidh aici. Beidh Leabharlann an Dr Karen Guinee mar chomhartha leanúnach ómóis do Karen. Dúinn féin mar theaghlach, tabharfaidh sé brí níos doimhne dúinn de bheith dá huireasa. Sna sé bliana a chaith Karen ag déanamh staidéir ar an leigheas in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, is iomaí uair an chloig a chaith sí sa Leabharlann le cairde, ag roinnt eolais agus á saibhriú féin le smaointe agus pleananna don ghairm bheatha a bhí amach roimpi. Mar theaghlach, tá súil againn go gcoinneoidh gach mac léinn Karen ina gcuid cuimhní, san áis álainn den chéad scoth, áis a thabharfadh ardú croí do Karen gan dabht. Fuair Karen bás go hóg, ach maireann a hoidhreacht fós. Gabhaimid ár mbuíochas ó chroí le Michael Guinee, uncail agus athair baistí Karen, le Fondúireacht Charthanachta Michael Guinee, agus le gach duine in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe a raibh baint acu leis an ainmniú seo. Go mbeidh sólás againn agus fios againn nach ndéanfar dearmad ar dhuine thar a bheith speisialta choíche." Dúirt Uachtarán Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, an tOllamh David Burn: “Thar ceann phobal Ollscoil na Gaillimhe agus gach duine a bheidh mar chuid den phobal sin amach anseo, ba mhaith liom aitheantas a thabhairt do theaghlach Guinee, agus d’Fhondúireacht Charthanachta Michael Guinee. Ní mar gheall ar an tragóid a tharla a bhfuil meas á léiriú againn ar an Dr Karen Guinee, ach mar gheall ar an saol a chaith sí. Agus Leabharlann Ollscoil na Gaillimhe á hainmniú ina diaidh, aithnímid a mianta, a comhbhá agus a tiomantas domhain chun cabhrú le daoine eile. Agus é sin á dhéanamh againn, cuirimid i láthar an domhain mhóir go bhfuilimid ag iarraidh Ollscoil shábháilte, mheasúil agus chuimsitheach a bhaint amach agus tugaimid le fios an cineál pobail agus sochaí atá uainn. Tá i bhfad níos mó ná foirgneamh i gceist le Leabharlann an Dr Karen Guinee; is oidhreacht í. Áit staidéir agus fionnachtana a bheidh inti, chomh maith le háit ina léireofar teacht aniar agus dóchas.”             Dúirt an Dr Michael Guinee, Cathaoirleach Fhondúireacht Charthanachta Michael Guinee: “Mar an chéad duine ina teaghlach a chuaigh chuig an ollscoil, ba thuar dóchais í Karen agus an gealladh a bhí fúithi tabhairt faoi ghairm mar dhochtúir. Ba chailliúint mhór domsa mar a hathair baistí a bás agus dá teaghlach, dá cairde agus don phobal a raibh sí i ndiaidh freastal a dhéanamh air cheana féin le cúram agus le dúthracht. Trí Leabharlann nua Ollscoil na Gaillimhe a ainmniú ina diaidh, tá súil agam go mbeimid in ann ómós a thabhairt di, agus glúnta mac léinn amach anseo a spreagadh chun gairm bheatha ardchaighdeáin a bhaint amach ina léireoidh siad dúthracht.”  Bhí an méid seo a leanas le rá ag Monica Crump, Leabharlannaí Ollscoil na Gaillimhe: “Beidh Leabharlann an Dr Karen Guinee mar spás foghlama agus taighde, inspioráide agus nuálaíochta, comhoibrithe agus machnaimh chiúin – ómós oiriúnach do bhean óg a raibh a saol, cé go raibh sí gearr, lán le cuspóir, croíúlacht agus gealladh. Is mór an onóir dúinn a bheith bainteach leis an gcuimhne sin.” Tá Leabharlann an Dr Karen Guinee in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe á tógáil faoi láthair i lár champas chathair na Gaillimhe agus beidh sí ina mol lárnach don fhoghlaim, taighde, comhoibriú, agus pobal. Tá radharc ón bhforbairt shuntasach ar Abhainn na Gaillimhe agus is féidir í a fheiceáil ó Bhóthar an Chaisleáin Nua agus ó Dhroichead na gCúig Céad. Gné shuntasach is ea go mbeidh urlár na talún oscailte don phobal i gcoitinne. Tá an foirgneamh nua thart ar 10,000m2 ar mhéid agus beidh idir 4 agus 6 urlár ann, le 2,244 spás staidéir (méadú suas le 400 ar na spásanna atá ar an gcampas faoi láthair). Tá sé deartha chun foghlaim agus taighde an 21ú haois a chumasú trí spásanna a chur ar fáil d'obair aonair agus d’obair chomhoibritheach agus tacóidh ionad scoláireachta digití agus cúinne cruthaitheachta níos fearr le nuálaíocht, cruthaitheacht agus táirgeadh eolais. Cuirfear “book-bot” i bhfearas, is é sin córas ard-dlúis stórála agus aisghabhála do bhailiúchán leabhar fisiciúil na Leabharlainne. Tacóidh foireann saineolaithe le haistear foghlama na mac léinn ag an deasc chabhrach, an Mol Rathúlachta Foghlama agus an limistéar Teicneolaíochta Cúnta. A bhuí le zón fáilte, ina mbeidh limistéar imeachtaí agus taispeántais, beidh Leabharlann an Dr Karen Guinee ina háit don phobal agus don rannpháirtíocht. Tá tacaíocht an Rialtais ag an tionscadal chun Leabharlann an Dr Karen Guinee in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe a thógáil freisin le deontas caipitil €15 mhilliún ón Roinn Breisoideachais agus Ardoideachais, Taighde, Nuálaíochta agus Eolaíochta faoin gCiste Bonneagair Straitéisigh um Ardoideachas (HESIF) agus an tÚdarás um Ard-Oideachas. Meastar go mbeidh an tógáil tugtha chun críche sa bhliain 2027. Tá tacaíocht dhaonchairdiúil bhreise curtha ar fáil go fial do thógáil Leabharlann an Dr Karen Guinee ag grúpa ceannródaíoch alumni agus ag deontóirí aonair eile, agus ag lucht tacaíochta corparáide lena n-áirítear CBE agus Anthony Ryan Ltd. Críoch

University of Galway has announced its new Library is to be named in memory of Dr Karen Guinee, a medicine graduate.  Dr Karen Guinee died in 2006, shortly after completing her studies at the University. She is remembered as a gifted and compassionate alumna who completed her education and training as a doctor with distinction.  The announcement of the Dr Karen Guinee Library follows a significant philanthropic gift from the Michael Guinee Charitable Foundation, which is also supporting the establishment of a new scholarship for medical students in memory of Dr Guinee.  University of Galway extends heartfelt gratitude to the Foundation and ongoing sympathies to the Guinee family, as Dr Karen Guinee’s legacy lives on with us.  The Guinee family said: “We, the Guinee family, are so proud and honoured at the announcement of the naming of the Dr Karen Guinee Library at University of Galway.  “Karen was tragically taken from us almost 20 years ago, a week away from her graduation as a doctor. Her death has left a void and placed an unspeakable trauma on us all as a family.  “Karen was so terrifically bright, kind, loving and caring. We miss her everyday and her loss in this world is felt by everyone who knew her.  “The Dr Karen Guinee Library will serve as a living tribute to Karen. For us as a family, it will give a deeper meaning to her absence.  “During Karen’s six years studying medicine in University of Galway, the Library would have become a second home – one where she would have spent countless hours with friends, sharing knowledge and enriching herself with ideas and plans for her future career.  “As a family, we hope that every student will carry Karen’s memory forward, in a beautiful state-of-the-art facility that Karen undoubtedly would have loved.  “Karen’s life was cut short, but her legacy lives on. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Michael Guinee, Karen’s uncle and godfather, the Michael Guinee Charitable Foundation, and all those involved at University of Galway.  “May there be comfort in knowing that someone so special will never be forgotten.”  President of University of Galway, Professor David Burn, said: “On behalf of the University of Galway community and all those who will come to be part of that community in the future, I would like to pay tribute to the Guinee family, and the Michael Guinee Charitable Foundation.  “We are honouring Dr Karen Guinee not because of the tragedy that occurred, but because of the life she lived. By naming the University of Galway Library after her, we acknowledge her aspirations, her compassion and her deep commitment to helping others. In doing so, we send a message about the safe, respectful and inclusive University we strive for and the type of community and society we work to uphold.  “The Dr Karen Guinee Library is more than a building; it is a legacy. It will be a place of study and discovery, but also a place of resilience, and hope.”            Dr Michael Guinee, Chairman of the Michael Guinee Charitable Foundation, said: “As the first person in her family to go to university, Karen carried with her the dreams and hopes of her family and the promise of her career as a doctor. Her passing was a profound loss to me as her godfather and to her family, friends, and the community she had already begun to serve with such care and dedication. By naming the new University of Galway Library in her name, it is my hope that we can honour her memory, and inspire future generations of students to a career of excellence, dedication and service.”  Monica Crump, University of Galway Librarian, said: “The Dr Karen Guinee Library will stand as a place of learning and research, inspiration and innovation, collaboration and quiet reflection - a fitting tribute to a young woman whose life, though brief, was filled with purpose, warmth, and promise. It is an honour for us to be associated with that memory.”  The Dr Karen Guinee Library at University of Galway is currently under construction in the centre of the Galway city campus and will be a central hub for learning, research, collaboration, and community. The landmark development overlooks the Corrib and is visible from the Newcastle Road area and the Quincentenary Bridge. A stand-out feature is that the ground floor will be open to the general public.  The new building spans approximately 10,000m2 and will range in height from 4-6 storeys, with 2,244 study spaces (an increase of up to 400 on the spaces currently on campus). It is designed to enable 21st century learning and research by providing spaces for individual and collaborative work while a digital scholarship centre and an enhanced makerspace will support innovation, creativity and knowledge production. A “book-bot” will be installed, offering a high-density storage and retrieval system for the Library’s physical book collection. Expert staff will support students’ learning journey through a Helpdesk, Learning Success Hub and Assistive Technology area. A welcome zone, incorporating an event and exhibition area, will make the Dr Karen Guinee Library a place of community and engagement.  The building of the Dr Karen Guinee Library at University of Galway is also supported by Government with a €15 million capital grant through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science under the Higher Education Strategic Infrastructure Fund (HESIF) and the Higher Education Authority.  Additional philanthropic support for the building of the Dr Karen Guinee Library has been generously provided by a group of lead alumni and other individual donors, and by corporate supporters including CBE and Anthony Ryan Ltd.  Construction is expected to be completed in 2027.  Ends

Tiny plankton organism helps reveal hidden record of key marine currents and changes to Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation An international research team led by the University of Galway has developed a crucial new way to enable scientific reconstruction of ocean acidity and CO2 levels in cold polar oceans, giving new insights into climate change.   The scientists studied how tiny polar foraminifera plankton record ocean acidity (pH) in their shells. When these organisms die and sink to the ocean floor, their shells form part of the ocean’s natural climate archive, which can be studied when collecting sediment cores from the seabed.     In both hemispheres, Polar seas are areas of strong deep-water formation which play a major role in the storage of CO2 and the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) - the conveyor belt of marine currents that keep Northern Europe, in particular Ireland and Britain, relatively mild in winter.    The new findings now allow scientists to go back in time to test whether the rate at which CO2 is removed from the atmosphere is reduced when the AMOC slows down.   The research has been published in the scientific journal Biogeosciences and is available here https://cp.copernicus.org/articles/19/2493/2023/cp-19-2493-2023.pdf.   These and other findings and policy issues will be discussed at the third Annual Irish Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) Meeting taking place from today at University of Galway.     Dr Audrey Morley, senior researcher on the project, said: “Our analysis of the tiny polar foraminifera has opened a door to answer questions about climate change which was previously unavailable. We can use our new method to look at the acidity of the polar surface ocean and how it changed over time. That also gives us a deeper understanding of how the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation controls our climate.”    Scientists warn that Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is at risk of being disrupted due to rapid global warming. The ultimate threat is that a weakening or collapse of the AMOC triggers extreme weather events and disruptive changes in seasonality across Europe.   Dr Morley said: “Today, 25-30% of the anthropogenic (human-caused) CO2 emitted into the atmosphere is absorbed by the ocean, effectively mitigating the impact of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions on climate change. Whether or not, or how, the rate at which CO2 is removed from the atmosphere changes in response to global warming, or a weakening or collapse of the AMOC, is a critical question that remains to be determined.   “There is a risk if the AMOC slows down and deep-water formation slows down then the cold-water areas of the Polar Oceans won’t remove as much CO2 from the atmosphere and store it away in the deep ocean as they do now.    “The analysis of past warm climates can help us shed light on these important feedback processes. Closing this knowledge gap is crucial if we want to fully understand and quantify the risks of future global warming.”   The third Annual Irish Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) Meeting is hosted by the Ryan Institute at University of Galway and is proudly co-organised with Maynooth University and Met Éireann. It brings together leading researchers, state agencies and policymakers to discuss latest research findings and future priorities for AMOC research in Ireland.   Ends 

University of Galway has announced two partnerships with leading Chinese medical universities.   The collaborations with Hebei Medical University and Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University focus on stem cell research and PhD study opportunities.     The announcements were made as part of a trade mission to China led by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin T.D., with the support of Enterprise Ireland.    President of University of Galway, Professor David Burn, said: “University of Galway has developed strong links in China thanks to the excellence of our academic research. We are now seizing the opportunity to build on this and fulfil the promise set out in our Strategy 2025-2030 Of Galway, For the World, and we look forward to the impact that these partnerships can create for society and for healthcare.”   Professor Tim O’Brien, Director of the Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMEDI) at University of Galway, said: “By combining the strengths in regenerative medicine and clinical research at University of Galway with China’s scale, expertise and commitment to innovation, we are hopeful that these partnerships will deliver real benefit for patients and society. The relationships that we have built with these universities in China is international collaboration at its best: forward-looking, people-centred, and focused on shared global impact.”   The transnational education event in Beijing was attended by more than 150 people from 13 higher education institutions in Ireland and China.   University of Galway has renewed a partnership for a Joint Stem Cell Research Centre with Hebei Medical University. The collaboration will enable joint PhD and Masters supervision and collaborative research, including 12 postgraduate opportunities for students Hebei Medical University to enrol in the M.Sc. in Regenerative Medicine & M.Sc. in Cellular Manufacturing and Therapy in University of Galway. The partnership will also seek to drive collaborations between hospitals, universities, and industry in China and Ireland, bringing innovative regenerative stem cell therapies to patients worldwide.   A PhD scholarship Programme is also being renewed with the Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC) which funds up to 10 students from Xiangya School of Medicine to pursue PhD studies in Galway. The collaboration aims to strengthen joint clinical and scientific research between the EU and China, promote academic exchange and deepen institutional links.    Ends 

Prospective mature students and adult learners considering a return to education are invited to a special information event at University of Galway. The information evening will take place on campus on Thursday January 15th from 6pm-9pm in the Institute for Lifecourse and Society, Upper Newcastle Road. Hosted by the University’s Access Centre, the event will outline the CAO application process, entry pathways, funding options and practical supports available to adults who are thinking about returning to study. Students who have successfully returned to education and transformed their careers and confidence will also give first-hand accounts of their experience. The event is open to anyone aged 23 or over who is applying through the CAO as a mature student, as well as adults considering upskilling, retraining or returning to education and those interested in Access courses or flexible learning opportunities, such as Microcreds. Staff will be on hand to discuss degree programmes, career opportunities and unique learning experiences at the University. The Career Development Centre will also provide expert advice on career pathways and progression after completing a qualification. The information evening will highlight the wide range of flexible learning options available for adult learners. Representatives from the Centre for Adult Learning and Professional Development will showcase short courses, languages, online learning and professional development programmes tailored to fit around work, family and life commitments. The event will also serve as a gateway to the University’s Access Foundation Diploma Courses, which support learners at a pre-university level to build confidence, academic skills and a strong platform for success in a full degree. Kathleen Hartigan, Mature Students Officer, Access Centre, University of Galway, said: “There is truly a place for everyone at University of Galway. Whether you choose a full-time degree, take your first step through an Access course, or pursue flexible lifelong learning, our community is here to support you to reach your full potential.” Nuala McGuinn, Director of the Centre for Adult Learning and Professional Development, University of Galway, said: “Technological change is reshaping how we work, learn and develop new skills across every sector. But lifelong learning isn’t only about careers - it’s also about curiosity and the joy of learning something new. Whether someone is pursuing a short micro-credential, a flexible part-time undergraduate or postgraduate course, our staff are ready to help people find learning opportunities that fit their lives.” For further information or to register to attend, visit www.universityofgalway.ie/mature Ends

Alumni of the renowned BioInnovate programme at University of Galway are to share insights on translating unmet clinical need into patient centred solutions. The online event is being held on January 13th, 2026, as the search begins for the next intake for BioInnovate's 10-month medical device and digital health innovation programme.  One area of focus for the 2026 webinar is the growing recognition that women’s health innovation must be grounded in real, unmet clinical need and informed by diverse perspectives, particularly the lived experiences of women themselves. The webinar seeks to actively support and encourage greater involvement of women as innovators and leaders in health innovation, an approach long embedded within BioInnovate. BioInnovate alumni companies are already demonstrating how needs-led innovation can transform health outcomes, including women’s health outcomes. Among them is AVeta Medical which is poised to redefine the standard of care for millions of women living with Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). The BioInnovate webinar and the opening of recruitment for the programme follows the announcement late last year by Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill T.D. of €2million in dedicated funding in women’s health research in Ireland in 2026 and 2027. Paula Newell, Founder of AVeta Medical and a BioInnovate alumna taking part in the webinar, said: “Women’s health has historically been under-researched and under-prioritised, despite the scale of impact on quality of life. Needs-led innovation changes that dynamic by starting with women’s voices and translating them into clinically meaningful, patient-centred solutions. Programmes like BioInnovate have played a critical role in enabling that journey." Professor Martin O’Halloran, Co-Director of BioInnovate, said: “Needs-led approaches ensure that health solutions are clinically relevant, commercially viable and, most importantly, grounded in real patient need. Having diverse participants within the training programme really supports this approach.” The webinar will highlight how the importance of clinical insight in shaping effective unmet solutions is reflected in the career paths of clinicians who move into innovation and industry. Dr Brendan Boland, Co-Founder of Loci Orthopaedics and Head of Consulting, MedTech at EY, former clinician and BioInnovate fellow, said: “When innovation is grounded in real clinical insight and supported by the right commercial and policy frameworks, it has the potential to deliver meaningful impact at scale. Women’s health represents one of the most significant areas of unmet clinical need in medtech. The BioInnovate programme is critical in bridging that gap between clinical reality and sustainable innovation.” Along with Ms Newell and Dr Boland, the BioInnovate event will hear from other speakers, including Katie Nolan, Clinical Acceleration Manager, ARC Hub for HealthTech based at University of Galway; Yanka Reis, 2025 BioInnovate graduate and engineer with J&J; and current programme participant Conor Connolly, a biotechnology graduate and accomplished commercial leader with extensive experience in the medical technology and sustainability sectors. The BioInnovate alumni will share insights on translating unmet clinical needs into scalable, patient-centered solutions. The webinar is open to medical professionals, scientists, engineers technology and AI experts, and business professionals interested in participating in the 10-month programme. The programme is fully funded, and participants receive a tax-free scholarship of €38,000 over the ten-month period. In addition, academic fees of up to €5,750 are covered by the programme. Register at  https://tinyurl.com/bioinnovatewebinar2026 BioInnovate 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