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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

Research led by a team of investigators at University of Galway has revealed that frailty has a greater impact than age on the outcomes of patients being weaned off invasive mechanical ventilation, required by patients with various forms of respiratory failure.   Despite the widespread use and clear benefits of mechanical ventilation, it is not a risk-free intervention. The research is a sub-study of the international study – “Worldwide Assessment of Separation of Patients from Ventilatory Assistance” (WEAN SAFE), led by the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine and the European Respiratory Society. The sub-study was jointly first authored by University of Galway medical students, Rionach Sheerin and Caoimhe Laffey as part of the Health Research Board Summer scholarship programme. Professor Andrew Simpkin, Professor in Statistics at the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences from University of Galway led the analysis team for the study. Weaning is the process by which mechanical ventilation support is gradually reduced and then discontinued, to allow a patient to breathe by themselves. This sub-study sought to understand why delayed and failed weaning of patients from invasive mechanical ventilation worsens patient outcomes, increases the risk of dying and increases the length of intensive care unit and hospital stay. The international WEAN SAFE study analysed data from 4,523 patients across 481 intensive care units in 50 countries. The University of Galway sub-study categorised patients into four groups based on age and also based on frailty - a medical condition where a person’s body systems lose their built-in reserves, making them vulnerable to stressors like illness or injury. The findings, published in Annals of Intensive Care and available at: https://rdcu.be/d7mQR, demonstrate that frailty plays a more decisive role than age in determining both the likelihood of delayed and failed weaning and overall survival rates. Key Findings: Frail patients, regardless of their age, faced significantly higher risks of delayed weaning (28%) and weaning failure (23%) compared to non-frail and younger patients (12% and 13%, respectively). Frail and elderly patients (4% of the study population) had the poorest outcomes, with hospital mortality reaching 46%. Older age, though significant, had a lesser impact on outcomes compared to frailty. Professor John Laffey, Professor of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine at University of Galway’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, and Consultant in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine at Galway University Hospitals, said: “Delayed and failed weaning from mechanical intubation is a critical challenge in ICUs worldwide, with far-reaching implications for patient recovery and resource utilisation. Patients requiring intensive care are increasingly older and more frail. The study's findings point to the importance of incorporating frailty assessments into ICU protocols to guide decision-making, optimise care, and further improve outcomes for these at-risk populations.” Dr Bairbre McNicholas, Senior Lecturer at University of Galway and Consultant in Intensive Care Medicine at Galway University Hospitals, said: “This study highlights the value of frailty assessments in critical care settings as is provides clear evidence that frailty, rather than age alone, should be a key consideration in managing weaning processes.” The WEAN SAFE study is a global initiative to advance understanding of the challenges associated with Intensive Care Unit mechanical ventilation and weaning processes. It is the first global study to describe the weaning process in detail, characterising different approaches used by physicians globally in regard to weaning for mechanical ventilation, and the impact of delayed and failed weaning from ventilation. The study’s findings provide a robust evidence base to inform clinical practice and improve patient care worldwide. Ends  

University of Galway and PwC Ireland have announced the renewal of a strategic partnership to promote talent for business.        The partnership runs for five years until 2030, ensuring PwC and the University’s J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics continue to collaborate on the University's Bachelor of Commerce Skills Pathway, focusing on developing students' innovation and entrepreneurial talent. The programme will comprise three modules: skills for success; skills for business; and skills for innovation, creativity and enterprise.               At the announcement, Doone O’Doherty, People Partner, PwC Ireland, said: "PwC’s research indicates that more still needs to be done to upskill today’s workforce and this need has come to the fore as AI and Generative AI disrupts businesses. Education has an important role to play in ensuring that our graduates' skills are future-proofed. As one of Ireland's largest graduate recruiters, we recognise the importance of developing talent, having the digital, entrepreneurial and collaborative skills needed for a fast-moving business environment. We are delighted to continue our partnership with University of Galway to help prepare students for the Irish and international workplace and to equip them with the relevant skills to become world-class business leaders."               Professor Alma McCarthy, Dean, J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, University of Galway, said: “We are delighted to announce the renewal of our successful partnership with PwC.  The PwC partnership enables our Bachelor of Commerce students to develop their entrepreneurial skills using practical real-world projects mentored by leading industry and business leaders.  We look forward to continuing to build on our excellent relationship with PwC, a relationship that extends over a decade.’’   In addition to focusing on skill and competency development, University of Galway's Bachelor of Commerce Skills Pathway programme will also involve peer-assisted learning; opportunities to shadow and learn from current PwC graduates on-site; guest lecturing sessions; employability skills training; and mentoring.   Ends

The UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre co-hosted a special event Acting with Empathy, with Irish actor and Centre Patron, Cillian Murphy at the Stella Cinema in Rathmines, Dublin.    The programme included an exclusive screening of the movie Small Things Like These distributed by Lionsgate and Big Things Films followed by a discussion with RTÉ’s John Kelly where the actor reflected on his patronage of the work on empathy with the UNESCO Centre in Galway and the importance of engaging young people in social issues. The event was held in association with Foróige and Pennsylvania State University in the US, to highlight the on-the-ground delivery of evidence-based empathy education for adolescents in schools and in community youth work settings in Ireland.  Commenting on how the film’s theme connects with the actor’s support for the partners’ work in promoting empathy in adolescents, Cillian Murphy said: “While the movie Small Things reflects on the plight of Irish life in the mid-1980s, its message of the need for empathy and compassion in communities has even more resonance today given the personal and social challenges young people face and endure – not least issues of prejudice, targeted hate speech and online bullying.” The event featured a Q&A with Cillian Murphy and two Youth Researchers who work with the UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre. It also offered a unique opportunity to share with potential sponsors plans to build on established expertise in the field through the development of a transatlantic UNESCO Observatory for Youth Empathy and Engaged Citizenship co-located with Pennsylvania State University. The Observatory will provide the infrastructure that brings research evidence and implementation together for ‘real world’ application and generate evidence with and for young people.  Ailbhe Ni Mhorain, a 6th year student at Dominican College, Taylor’s Hill in Galway and a Youth Researcher, said: “Now more than ever, empathy education is essential so young people can truly understand each other and not at a surface level. As the voice of tomorrow, we need to be able to work together to face the challenges arising in the future.” Matthew Shaw-Torkzadeh, Transition Year student, Newpark Comprehensive School, Dublin and also a Youth Researcher, said: "If empathy is a muscle that can be trained, the best way to do that is through connecting with and acting on behalf of those facing injustice starting with involvement in your own community." Since 2016, a team of researchers at University of Galway have developed a concrete basis for understanding empathy, social values and civic behaviour in adolescents. Based on active emphatic responding at interpersonal, community and societal levels, this research is enabling the development of interventions such as curriculum for secondary schools, programmes for community youth work, and policy frameworks for governments.  Ends

Technologies being researched to help farmers mitigate against climate change A European research-led consortium has been established to pioneer technologies to improve crop resilience to drought stress caused by climate change. EpiSeedLink is a €2.69 million project funded under the European Commission’s Horizon Europe that will run for four years, exploring new methods to improve how farmed crops can survive prolonged dry spells by harnessing natural processes. The research consortium is made up of partners in Ireland, France, Spain, Germany, the Netherlands with the Kerry-based biotech company BioAtlantis and the lead researcher, Dr Sara Farrona at University of Galway. EpiSeedLink employs two key strategies: understanding the molecular and epigenetic mechanisms behind seed germination and vigour to develop drought-resistant crops; and developing Molecular Seed Priming agents from renewable marine and terrestrial resources, such as seaweed, to improve seed performance under drought. These approaches will be tested in laboratory and field trial conditions using model plants such as Arabidopsis – a flowering plant of the mustard family; as well as tomato and oilseed rape -  two major crops grown in Europe. Dr Sara Farrona, Head of the Plant Development Epigenetics Laboratory of the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, College of Science and Engineering, University of Galway, said: “Our goal is to research the potential for technologies that could help farmers grow crops under climate-related stress conditions, such as drought. As development of agricultural sustainable practices is essential in combating climate change, the goal of EpiSeedLink is to contribute to this challenge by driving progress toward a more sustainable world and advancing both foundational knowledge and practical solutions in agriculture. “The research is investigating epigenetic mechanisms – essentially how cell function can be changed. Epigenetic processes in biology are analogous to a computer's software. While genomes resemble the hardware running cells, epigenetic changes resemble software that manage when genes are switched on or off. Such changes can occur naturally in response to environmental factors, linking cells to their surroundings, but without altering crop DNA sequences.   “This project seeks to harness these natural processes to deliver new sustainable technologies to crop growers.” The EpiSeedLink project involves research in three main areas: Seed Germination: Understanding how epigenetic factors influence the development of a new plant, known as seed-to-seedling transition. Stress Adaptation: Studying how plants respond to drought stress. Seed Priming: Developing technologies to improve drought tolerance using Molecular Seed Priming agents from renewable marine and terrestrial resources, such as seaweed. As part of the EpiSeedLink consortium, University of Galway and BioAtlantis are hosting PhD students who are being trained as the next generation of plant scientists in innovative plant epigenetics research, offering new ways to improve crop yields and stress resilience. Dr Sujeeth Neerakkal, Head of Plant Research, BioAtlantis Ltd, said: “EpiSeedLink is a cutting-edge research project focused on modulating the epigenetic code in crops, using novel Molecular Priming agents. In this project, BioAtlantis will play a key role in developing these molecular priming agents to improve drought tolerance and to enhance growth and yield in crops, whilst also contributing to the training of the next generation of PhD level scientists in this field of research. As part of their training students will conduct scientific trials at BioAtlantis’ R&D facilities, using model plants and crops species such as, oil seed rape and tomato. BioAtlantis’ participation in EpiSeedLink is testament to its continued commitment to the development of STEM and biotechnology in Ireland, and our drive to deliver proven and sustainable solutions to crop growers worldwide.” Read more information about EpiSeedLink, here: https://episeedlink.eu/   Ends

Is í an tOllamh Alma McCarthy an chéad bhean a ceapadh sa phost Tá an tOllamh Alma McCarthy ceaptha ina Déan Feidhmiúcháin ar Choláiste an Ghnó, an Bheartais Phoiblí & an Dlí in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe. Is í an chéad bhean a ceapadh sa ról mar cheannasaí dáimhe agus beidh an tOllamh McCarthy ag glacadh leis an ról ón 1 Márta 2025, ar feadh tréimhse ceithre bliana. Cuimsítear Scoil an Dlí, Scoil Ghnó agus Eacnamaíochta J.E. Cairnes agus Coláiste Ósta na Sionainne mar chuid den Choláiste. Bhí an méid seo le rá ag Uachtarán Eatramhach Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, an tOllamh Peter McHugh: “Níl aon amhras orm ach go dtabharfaidh an tOllamh Alma McCarthy ceannaireacht den scoth ina ról nua mar Dhéan Feidhmiúcháin Choláiste an Ghnó, an Bheartais Phoiblí agus an Dlí san Ollscoil, agus í ag obair le comhghleacaithe anseo agus níos faide i gcéin, agus í ag cur chun cinn oideachas agus taighde den scoth a mbeidh an-tionchar aige agus a bheidh ag teacht lenár n-uaillmhianta straitéiseacha sna blianta amach romhainn. “Gabhaim buíochas freisin leis an Ollamh Geraint Howells, an Déan Feidhmiúcháin atá ag dul as oifig, as a sheirbhís don Ollscoil agus as an gceannaireacht atá tugtha aige le ceithre bliana anuas. Tá cion nach beag déanta aige d'fhorbairt na hOllscoile le linn dó a bheith ag obair linn. Guím gach rath air sa todhchaí.” Tá an tOllamh McCarthy ina Déan ar Scoil Ghnó agus Eacnamaíochta J.E. Cairnes in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe ó 2021. Tá sí ina hOllamh le Bainistíocht Earnála Poiblí agus i measc na spéiseanna taighde atá aici tá ceannaireacht san earnáil phoiblí agus forbairt acmhainní daonna, oiliúint, cothromaíocht oibre is saoil agus an chianobair. Bhí an tOllamh McCarthy i gceannas ar na suirbhéanna cianoibre le linn na paindéime, le tacaíocht ó Choimisiún Forbartha an Iarthair, ag bailiú eolais faoi na chéad léargais ar dhearcaí na bhfostaithe ar an aistriú mór agus tobann a bhain le bheith ag obair ón mbaile agus taobh amuigh den oifig. Tá tionchar imeartha ag a taighde ar pholasaí forbartha tallainne na Státseirbhíse agus ar straitéis náisiúnta cianoibre an Rialtais. Tá taithí fhairsing ag an Ollamh McCarthy ar chláir oiliúna forbartha ceannaireachta agus bainistíochta a dhearadh, a sheachadadh agus a mheas, ar cláir iad a bhfuil sé d'aidhm acu feabhas a chur ar inniúlacht bainistíochta, agus tá saineolas faoi leith aici ar fhorbairt bainistíochta sa tseirbhís phoiblí agus sa státseirbhís. Dúirt an tOllamh McCarthy: "Is mór an onóir dom a bheith ceaptha sa ról mar Dhéan Feidhmiúcháin agus táim ag tnúth le cur leis an rath atá ar na trí Scoil i gColáiste an Ghnó, an Bheartais Phoiblí & an Dlí in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe. Ag obair i gcomhar le foireann láidir comhghleacaithe sa Choláiste, leanfaimid orainn ag dul i ngleic le riachtanais athraitheacha an gheilleagair agus na sochaí chun oideachas den scoth a dhearadh agus a sholáthar sa ghnó, dlí agus bainistíocht óstáin agus leanfaimid orainn ag dul i ngleic le taighde ábhartha den scoth. Beidh rannpháirteachas le páirtithe leasmhara seachtracha agus tionchar ar pholasaithe mar phríomhthosaíocht ag an gColáiste ina phlean straitéiseach nua.” Ball cairte í an tOllamh McCarthy den Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), den American Academy of Management agus den Society for Industrial and Organisational Psychology, agus chaith sí tréimhse mar Leas-Chathaoirleach agus mar Chathaoirleach tofa d'Acadamh Bainistíochta na hÉireann (IAM). Rinneadh Comhalta den IAM di as a bhfuil déanta aici don acadamh sin. Ball creidiúnaithe den British Psychological Society (BPS) í agus tá deimhniú aici le raon leathan measúnuithe síciméadracha a riaradh, idir chumas cognaíoch, tástálacha pearsantachta agus spéiseanna gairmréime. Críoch  

Professor Alma McCarthy is the first female academic to be appointed to the position Professor Alma McCarthy has been appointed Executive Dean at the College of Business, Public Policy and Law at University of Galway. The first female academic to hold the role at the head of the faculty, Professor McCarthy will take up the post on March 1, 2025, for a four-year term. The College comprises the School of Law, J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, and Shannon College of Hotel Management. Interim President of University of Galway, Professor Peter McHugh said: “I have no doubt that Professor Alma McCarthy will provide excellent leadership as Executive Dean of the College of Business, Public Policy and Law at our University, working with colleagues both here and beyond, promoting excellent and impactful education and research, in alignment with our strategic ambitions over the coming years. “I also thank Professor Geraint Howells, the outgoing Executive Dean, for his service to the University and leadership over the last four years. He has made an outstanding contribution to our development. All of us wish him the very best for the future.” Professor McCarthy has been Dean of J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics at University of Galway since 2021. She is Professor of Public Sector Management and her research interests include public sector leadership and human resource development, training, work-life balance, and remote working. Professor McCarthy spearheaded the remote working surveys during the pandemic, with the support of the Western Development Commission, generating the first and earliest insights into employee attitudes to the sudden and large-scale shift to working from home and out of the office. Her research has influenced national civil service talent development policy and the Government's national remote working strategy. Professor McCarthy has extensive experience in designing, delivering and evaluating leadership and management development training programmes aimed at improving managerial competence, with particular expertise in public and civil service management development. Professor McCarthy said: “I am honoured to be appointed to the Executive Dean role and look forward to building on the long-established success of the three Schools in the College of Business Public Policy & Law at University of Galway. Working with a strong team of colleagues in the College, we will continue to adapt to the changing needs of the economy and society to design and deliver excellent education in business, law and hotel management and continue to engage in relevant and impactful research. External stakeholder engagement and impact on policy will also be a key priority for the College in its new strategic plan.” Professor McCarthy is a Chartered Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), the American Academy of Management, the Society for Industrial and Organisational Psychology, and served as elected Vice-Chair and Chair of the Irish Academy of Management (IAM). She was conferred a Fellow of the IAM for her service to the academy. She is an accredited member of the British Psychological Society (BPS) and certified to administer a broad range of cognitive ability, personality and occupational interest psychometric assessments. Ends

Researchers at University of Galway have developed a way of bioprinting tissues that change shape as a result of cell-generated forces, in the same way that it happens in biological tissues during organ development. The breakthrough science focused on replicating heart tissues, bringing research closer to generating functional, bioprinted organs, which would have broad applications in disease modelling, drug screening and regenerative medicine. The research was led by a team at the School of Engineering and CÚRAM Research Ireland Centre for Medical Devices at University of Galway and has been published in the journal Advanced Functional Materials. Bioprinting technology uses living cells within specialised “bioink” materials – a substance or material which can support living cells, and due to its characteristics, it can aid cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation during maturation. The technology offers immense promise for creating lab-grown organs that closely resemble the structure of their human equivalent. However, bioprinting fully functional organs remains a significant hurdle. For instance, while bioprinted heart tissues can contract, their force of contraction is often considerably weaker than that of a healthy adult heart. Traditional bioprinting methods often aim to directly recreate the final anatomical shape of an organ, like the heart – therefore overlooking the crucial role of dynamic shape changes during natural embryonic development. For example, the heart begins as a simple tube that undergoes a series of bends and twists to form its mature four-chambered structure. These shape-morphing behaviours are essential for sculpting heart cell development and maturation. The University of Galway research team recognised this and developed a novel bioprinting technique that incorporates crucial shape-changing behaviours. Ankita Pramanick, lead author of the study and CÚRAM PhD Candidate at University of Galway, said: “Our work introduces a novel platform, using embedded bioprinting to bioprint tissues that undergo programmable and predictable 4D shape-morphing driven by cell-generated forces. Using this new process, we found that shape-morphing improved the structural and functional maturity of bioprinted heart tissues.” The research showed that cell-generated forces could guide the shape-morphing of bioprinted tissues, and it was possible to control the magnitude of the shape changes by modifying factors such as the initial print geometry and bioink stiffness. Morphing was found to sculpt cell alignment and enhance the contractile properties of the tissues. The research team also developed a computational model that could predict tissue shape-morphing behaviour. Professor Andrew Daly, Associate Professor in Biomedical Engineering and CÚRAM funded investigator and principal investigator on the project, said: “Our research shows that by allowing bioprinted heart tissues to undergo shape-morphing, they start to beat stronger and faster. The limited maturity of bioprinted tissues has been a major challenge in the field, so this was an exciting result for us. This allows us to create more advanced bioprinted heart tissue, with the ability to mature in a laboratory setting, better replicating adult human heart structure. We are excited to build on this shape-morphing approach in our ongoing European Research Council project, which is focused on developmentally-inspired bioprinting. “We are still a long way away from bioprinting functional tissue that could be implanted in humans, and future work will need to explore how we can scale our bioprinting approach to human-scale hearts. “We will need to integrate blood vessels to keep such large constructs alive in the lab, but ultimately, this breakthrough brings us closer to generating functional bioprinted organs, which would have broad applications in cardiovascular medicine.” The full study can be read in Advanced Functional Materials here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adfm.202414559#adfm202414559-bib-0004  Ends  

University of Galway’s Farmer’s Yards finds a new home in rural life of Pennsylvania Farmer’s Yards, a social initiative developed at University of Galway for the farming community, has been launched in the United States. Pennsylvania Farm Link, a non-profit dedicated to forging connections that secure the future of farming in the state, has adopted the novel programme as part of its efforts to respond positively to mental health and wellbeing issues facing farmers, while creating opportunities to enhance social inclusion within the farming community, especially for older farmers. Farmer’s Yards was initiated and developed by Dr Shane Conway at University of Galway’s Rural Studies Centre, with support from the University’s Illuminate Programme. The establishment of the initiative in Pennsylvania has been funded by the Northeast Extension Risk Management Education Center located at the University of Delaware through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The first Farmer’s Yards gathering in the US took place at the 109th Pennsylvania Farm Show that took place from the 4th to 11th of January 2025 in Harrisburg, bringing together 32 farmers from across the state to network with each other and reflect on the challenges of farm life. Dr Conway said: “The recent implementation of Farmer’s Yards in Pennsylvania showcases its universal appeal and adaptability for farming communities across the world. Farmers aged 65 and older are now the fastest-growing demographic of the farming population globally and this initiative provides a vital social outlet for older farmers to stay actively involved in their local community in later life. This is important because for many, farming is more than a job - it’s their identity and way of life. “Farmer’s Yards offers a meaningful way for these farmers to stay connected and engaged with fellow farmers at a similar stage of life, fostering inclusion and addressing the uncertainties and fears that often accompany stepping back from active farming. Whether adapting to age-related physical limitations or navigating the transition of the farm to the next generation, this initiative ensures that older farmers continue to be respected and valued members of the farming community as they age, contributing positively to their mental health and overall wellbeing.” Darlene Livingston, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Farm Link said: “Farmer’s Yards in Pennsylvania is designed for our farming community’s particular interests, requirements and values, in accordance with then model developed at University of Galway. The important role that the initiative plays in ensuring active social participation and inclusion for farmers as they age was evident with so many farmers in their 70s and 80s taking part. Such engagement will help prevent them from being isolated and feeling excluded from society in later life.”   The Farmer’s Yards provides farmers with a platform to maintain legitimate social connectedness, collegiality, and comradeship with their peers where they live, and in turn, combat social isolation and loneliness, something that is particularly beneficial for older farmers who have few other social outlets and may live alone. Pennsylvania Farm Link is planning further gatherings in rural communities across the state in the coming months as part of the adoption of the initiative. Farmers who take part are also exposed to a diverse set of farmer-focused knowledge transfer and exchange activities, such as succession planning, thereby helping them to successfully adapt through, and beyond, times of stress and distress. Ends  

Two University of Galway Law students, Mamadou Saliou Bah and Salma Smith were recently awarded RDJ Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships, worth €5,000 and a work placement opportunity with leading Irish law firm RDJ.  This year marks the first year of the RDJ Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship at University of Galway which support students from ethnic minorities and those who are under-represented in the legal profession in Ireland. RDJ has donated €100,000 over ten years for the scholarships, which are awarded to two University of Galway Law students each academic year. Mamadou and Salma were chosen as the scholarship recipients following a competitive selection and interview process based on exam results, a personal statement, a 1,000-word essay discussing the topic, “The Need for Diversifying the Legal Profession in Ireland”. The students were officially awarded their scholarships on campus by JP Gilmartin, Partner-in-Charge of RDJ's Galway office, Antoinette Vahey, Partner at RDJ, and Professor Martin Hogg, Dean of the University of Galway School of Law.             Commending the RDJ Diversity Scholars on their achievement, JP Gilmartin, Partner-in-Charge of RDJ's Galway office, said: “I am delighted to meet this year’s recipients of the RDJ Diversity Scholarship today. Mamadou and Salma are both outstanding students and I look forward to following what I have no doubt will be successful career paths for them both.”             Antoinette Vahey, Partner in RDJ’s Employment Group added: “Greater diversity and inclusion are among RDJ’s core values. This scholarship is in keeping with our commitment to creating a workplace that reflects the diversity of our clients and the communities we are part of.”             Acknowledging the importance of encouraging diversity in the legal profession, Professor Martin Hogg, Dean of University of Galway’s School of Law, said: “RDJ’s support in creating these two scholarships is sincerely appreciated by the School of Law. The two worthy inaugural recipients, Mamadou and Salma, will benefit greatly from them, receiving transformative support and encouragement to pursue legal careers in an increasingly diverse legal profession.” Ends

More than 100 school pupils, teachers and parents from across Ireland attended University of Galway’s first ever Model United Nations conference to tackle issues of global importance.   Organised by students in the University’s Literary and Debating Society, with support of the Societies Office and Sustainability Engagement Fund, the two-day event taught participants how to understand current political and human rights issues, debate and represent different positions, and articulate complex arguments.  During the event, teams assumed the role of a country at the United Nations and were tasked with discussing global problems, simulating foreign relations with other countries, and resolving real-world international issues with the perspective, values and ideals of their assigned nation in mind.  The conference was officially opened by Professor Siobhán Mullally, the UN Special Rapporteur on Trafficking in Persons and Director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights at University of Galway, who offered insights into the role of the UN in the ever-changing world.   Hugh Gately, Literary and Debating Society, said: “The event as a whole proved a roaring success, having provided students with a hugely enjoyable experience as well as improving their abilities in public speaking, debating, and problem resolution, and developing their awareness of the importance of foreign relations, international diplomacy and collaboration, and the issues facing our world today. Emboldened by displays across the conference indicative of impressive research, vast knowledge, and passionate participation, the participants left the conference at the end of the weekend agreeing on one thing for certain- they hope to return again next year.”   Dr Richard Manton, Director of Sustainability at University of Galway, said: “As Ireland’s leading university for action on the UN Sustainable Development Goals, University of Galway was proud to host a Model United Nations. It was inspiring to hear school students debate global challenges such as clean water and sanitation for all, which comes under Sustainable Development Goal 6. I would like to thank all the University of Galway volunteer organisers, photographers, chairs and clerks who made the event such a success.”  Ends   

 Professor Peter McHugh, Interim President of University of Galway, has been elected Fellow of the European Mechanics Society (EUROMECH). Professor McHugh is the first person from the Republic of Ireland to receive the prestigious Fellowship award. Professor McHugh was awarded the EUROMECH Solid Mechanics Fellowship for his outstanding scientific contributions to biomechanics, biomedical engineering and mechanical engineering and the development of biomedical engineering research and education programmes. By honouring him in such a way, the EUROMECH Council recognises eminent scientific contributions to the advancement of Solid Mechanics. The prestigious accolade is awarded to just three Fellows every three years, and there currently are only 20 EUROMECH Solid Mechanics Fellows. The European Mechanics Society will officially confer Fellowship on Professor McHugh at the 12th European Solid Mechanics Conference, which takes place in Lyon, France in July.             Professor McHugh said: “I am delighted to become a Fellow of the European Mechanics Society. It is an enormous honour to have my contribution to research and scholarship, and its application in technological development and education, recognised in this way. I look forward to supporting the work of the Council and to continue to work with colleagues from across Europe and beyond to identify and promote new research directions.” Originally from Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo, Professor McHugh is an internationally recognised research leader in biomedical engineering and his research is focused on fundamental developments and applications of computational and experimental methods in biomechanics, tissue mechanics and medical implants and devices. He has been a pioneer in the development of biomedical engineering research and education in Ireland and internationally. Professor McHugh joined the University in 1991 and was appointed as the first Established Professor of Biomedical Engineering in 2007. He has served as Dean of College of Engineering and Informatics, Head of School of Engineering, and as Deputy President and Registrar of the University, and was appointed as Interim President of University of Galway in September 2024. The European Mechanics Society is an international scientific organisation whose objective is to engage in all activities to promote the development of mechanics as a branch of science and engineering, ranging from fundamental research on the behaviour of solids and fluids to applied research in engineering. The status of Fellow of EUROMECH is awarded to members of the Mechanics community who have contributed significantly to the advancement of mechanics and related fields. This may be through their original research and publications, or their innovative contributions in the application of mechanics and technological developments, or though their distinguished contribution to the discipline in other ways. Ends

Twenty-two promising University of Galway students have been awarded bursaries by Connacht GAA. The awards are made to high-achieving students who play for the University and their clubs in Galway, Roscommon and Mayo and who show potential in ladies’ football, camogie, men’s football, hurling and dual sports. The annual Connacht GAA bursary scheme has been in place for 15 years providing financial assistance to students who display potential and commitment to Gaelic games as active members of the association and their higher education club. Professor Peter McHugh, Interim President of University of Galway, said: “University of Galway is committed to excellence in research, education and the student experience. A great example of our commitment to the student experience is through facilitating and nurturing our students’ potential in Gaelic games. We commend these students for their dedication in their chosen sport while balancing it with their third level studies and we wish them every success in their university and sporting lives.” The University has been in partnership with Connacht GAA since 2021, including the University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome, the indoor Gaelic games pitch at Connacht’s Centre of Excellence in Bekan, Co Mayo, the largest facility of its type in the world. Des Ryan, Director of Sport and Physical Wellbeing, University of Galway, said: “We are very proud of our twenty-two students who have received the 2025 bursaries. The awards reflect the potential of these Connacht GAA players currently studying at University of Galway and exceling in Gaelic games. The University’s partnership with Connacht GAA is strong and this is one of the many contributions Connacht GAA make to the third level Gaelic Games community. “The bursary will be very beneficial to our students who are members of the University Gaelic games clubs and their home community clubs. It can be challenging for students financially so this support from Connacht GAA is very welcomed. It will help our students balance their studies, work and sporting life.”     The Connacht GAA bursaries have been unveiled as University of Galway plans to host the prestigious Electric Ireland Higher Education GAA and Camogie Championship Finals for 2025. The finals take place at the Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence and the University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome from February 8th to 15th. Cathal Cregg, Connacht GAA Council Games manager, said: “The purpose of this bursary scheme is to honour young people who have excelled in the GAA. This year we have selected 62 outstanding people, all of whom will contribute to the GAA club and life in their colleges. Not just players but also young administrators who are involved in their college as team trainers and club officers are also beneficiaries in the scheme.” The University of Galway bursary recipients are: Caitlin Boyle, LGFA, Kilkerrin/Clonberne, Galway Eoin Colleran, Football, Padraig Pearses, Roscommon Niall Collins, Hurling, Cappatagle, Galway Diarmuid Davoren, Hurling, Moycullen, Galway Cathal Donoghue, Football, Oughterard, Galway Shea Fallon, Dual, Moylough, Galway Luke Feeney, Football, Ballina Stephenites, Mayo Jack Keane, Football, Hollymount/Carramore, Mayo Aoife Kelly, Camogie, Salthill/Knocknacarra, Galway Siofra Kelly, Dual, Turloughmore, Galway Cullen Killeen, Hurling, Loughrea, Galway Freya Leenane, Camogie, Oranmore Maree, Galway John MacMonagle, Football, Castlebar Mitchels, Mayo Kayla Madden, Camogie, Athenry, Galway Ava McDonnell, LGFA, St Brigids, Mayo Michael Moran, Dual, St Dominics, Roscommon Darragh Neary, Dual, Castlegar/St James, Galway Leana Nic Dhonncha, Camogie, Liam Mellows, Galway Ben O’Donovan, Hurling, Gort, Galway Jack O’Neill, Football, St James’, Galway Éabha O’Riordan, LGFA, Claregalway, Galway Joshua Ryan, Hurling, Clarinbridge HC, Galway A record number of 62 promising young Connacht GAA players and administrators have been included in the annual bursary scheme for this year, with students from all five counties of the province. Ends

University of Galway has announced the appointment of Dr Finn Krewer as the inaugural holder of the Greally Lectureship in Applied Clinical Data Analytics. The creation of the lectureship and Dr Krewer’s appointment is landmark initiative in integrating advanced clinical data analysis with cutting-edge research in artificial intelligence and healthcare. The Greally Lectureship, endowed on behalf of University graduates Professor John F. and Dr Marie Greally, represents a collaboration between the University’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences and the Insight Research Ireland Centre for Data Analytics and confirms ambition to advance clinical research through data-driven innovation. Professor Peter McHugh, Interim President of University of Galway, said: “The creation of the Greally Lectureship and Dr Finn Krewer’s appointment is a significant step in advancing University of Galway’s leadership in Applied Clinical Data Analytics. With the support of Professor John F. and Dr Marie Greally, this lectureship underscores our ambition to harness data-driven innovation to tackle complex healthcare challenges. Dr Krewer’s expertise will play a vital role in realising our vision of transforming clinical research and healthcare delivery through cutting-edge analytics and artificial intelligence.” Dr Marie Greally said: “We are delighted that Dr Krewer will be the first recipient of the lectureship, which we are privileged to have been able to endow as a symbol of the value and excitement of incorporating research into medical practice. We wish him every success and hope it acts as an inspiration to the next generation of students.”   Professor John F Greally said: “Dr Krewer has an extraordinary record of accomplishment already in his career. We look forward to his continued success, applying his skills to clinical data with the goal of improving health care.” Dr Krewer is a graduate of University of Galway and completed his PhD in Engineering in 2017 on bio-inspired reconfigurable computing. His research seamlessly combined biological neuron models with hardware accelerators, earning him numerous university and national scholarships. Since then, Dr Krewer has built a distinguished career, publishing several research papers and gaining industry experience in software development and data analysis. In 2023, Dr Krewer joined University of Galway as a Research Fellow, focusing on applied machine learning techniques for biosignal classification. His current work, supported by a Health Research Board Secondary Data Analysis Project grant, investigates traditional and novel risk factors for stroke in individuals with kidney failure in Ireland. As part of his new role under the Greally Lectureship, Dr Krewer will lead advanced teaching in data analytics and pursue a programme of research addressing clinical data analytics and the applications of artificial intelligence in healthcare.             Professor Martin O’Donnell, Executive Dean of the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at University of Galway, said: "Dr Krewer brings exceptional expertise in clinical data analytics and artificial intelligence, which will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare research. His work will be instrumental in advancing our plans to extend a multi-platform MSc in Applied Clinical Data Analytics, fostering innovations in clinical data analytics and developing our Academic Health Analytic infrastructure. These initiatives aim to bridge traditional and emerging data analysis methods, fostering new insights into mechanisms of disease and advancing population health. We are extremely grateful to Professor John F. and Dr Marie Greally for their generosity.” Ends

Aquila Bioscience developing pathogen decontamination technology for safer space exploration University of Galway spin-out Aquila Bioscience is collaborating with the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop a nature-inspired pathogen decontamination technology for safer space exploration. Traditional antimicrobial measures, while effective on Earth, present significant limitations in space due to potential toxicity, pathogen resistance, and long-term stability concerns. The unique conditions of spaceflight elevate the risk of infectious diseases by altering both human and microbial physiology. Aquila Bioscience’s approach to pathogen decontamination is informed by an extensive review of International Space Station microbiome research, which identified key pathogens posing health risks in confined space environments. These include viruses, bacteria and fungi that cause respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary and skin infections. Professor Lokesh Joshi, Founder of Aquila Bioscience and Stokes Professor of Glycosciences at University of Galway, said: “Aquila Bioscience is committed to addressing the critical challenges of pathogen exposure in space. Our Pathogen Capturing Technology aligns with the principles of safety, sustainability and innovation that are essential for the future of space exploration. We are honoured to have the European Space Agency’s support as we push the boundaries of innovation. This collaboration underscores the importance of developing sustainable, non-toxic and effective solutions for challenges associated with space exploration.” Aquila Bioscience is pioneering a groundbreaking solution to enhance health and safety protocols for space missions called Pathogen Capturing Technology (PCT). Unlike traditional antimicrobials that may lead to pathogen mutations, sterilisation tolerance, or antimicrobial resistance (AMR), Aquila Biosciences technology provides a safe, effective and eco-friendly alternative that is stable over long periods as space agencies and commercial spaceflight companies strive to ensure the health and safety of their crews. Professor Joshi said: “The deployment of our pathogen control technology in space missions has the potential to revolutionise decontamination protocols, enhancing the safety and well-being of astronauts while supporting sustainable and responsible space exploration.” Aquila Bioscience’s innovative technology employs a selection of natural protein-carbohydrate molecules on a biodegradable matric that act as molecular-Velcro, to capture and remove harmful pathogens without damaging human skin or surfaces. The Pathogen Capturing Technology’s biodegradable composition also addresses critical spaceflight constraints such as payload weight and waste management, ensuring its suitability for long-duration missions. The solution has been inspired by the knowledge of how nature protects humans from germs encountered on a regular basis, offering a non-toxic alternative to conventional decontamination agents like alcohol, bleach, and ammonium compounds, which are often unsuitable for skin use due to their harshness and potential toxicity. The project is sponsored by the European Space Agency (ESA) under ESA Initial Support for Innovation (EISI) activities, funded through the Discovery Programme. Ends

Youth Academy expands and opens more doors for young people to experience university life and engaging learning with researchers and academics University of Galway’s Youth Academy, an outreach programme for high ability students in primary and post-primary school, is launching a new series of courses for spring 2025. The acclaimed initiative for young people offers a unique opportunity for them to explore their passions, develop new skills and experience university life with like-minded pupils. Since its inception in 2012, Youth Academy has welcomed more than 7,000 young people to the campus, inspiring them through innovative, engaging and hands-on activities, and opening their minds to future academic and career possibilities. In spring 2025, the programme will host 23 immersive courses, including 10 new courses, all of which are designed for curious and ambitious young minds, covering science, engineering, coding, languages, philosophy, art, chess and more. The 10 new courses cover cutting-edge subjects like: Biomedical Science, where students will learn about slimy biomaterials and think like a forensic scientist Creative Technologies, where art, artificial intelligence and creativity combine Coastal Engineering, where participants will learn to protect and harness our marine environment, with hands-on activities and real-world solutions These six-week courses for fourth, fifth and sixth-class primary school students and first, second and third-year post-primary school students, will be held on Saturday mornings from February 8th, delivered by expert researchers and educators who are committed to fostering a friendly, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.             Parent Tom Wainwright said: “I like how Youth Academy encourages children to be comfortable making mistakes as part of the learning process and gives them a wonderful opportunity to better understand what university life involves. My son came home telling me about the friends he had made and about courses and career paths we didn’t even know existed.”             Dr Enda O’Connell, Outreach Development Officer managing Youth Academy operations in the Student Recruitment and Outreach Office at University of Galway, said: “We are very excited to present such a diverse range of engaging and impactful courses to inspire young people to try out new subjects, get a taste of campus life and make new friends with similar interests.” Applications are open from Friday January 10th until Thursday January 16th at https://www.universityofgalway.ie/youthacademy/ Eligibility is based on achievement in a student’s most recent English, Maths or Irish standardised test carried out in either primary or secondary school, or on an educational psychologist’s report demonstrating high ability. Through a partnership with Merit Medical, scholarships are provided to 25% of students to attend free of charge, based on economic circumstances. Ends

University of Galway is to host the prestigious Electric Ireland Higher Education GAA and Camogie Championship Finals for 2025. The finals will take place at the Connacht GAA Centre and the University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome in Bekan, Co Mayo from February 8th to 15th. More than 25 fixtures to be played across the three Gaelic Games codes over the course of seven days. With 13 teams competing across all divisions, University of Galway will be hoping to bring home silverware across all three codes. University of Galway Interim President Professor Peter McHugh said: “These competitions showcase the best of the young GAA talent in the country and we are delighted to host all three finals this year. The very best of luck to all the participants this year and I would encourage all football, hurling and camogie fans to come to the West of Ireland to support their teams.” University of Galway Camogie Club is fielding three teams for the first time in its history. The intermediate and junior teams have secured wins in the first round of their championships, the Uí Mhaolagáin Cup and the Ashling Murphy Cup. The senior team returns to topflight camogie for the first time since 2017 and will be aiming to make an impression in the Ashbourne Cup and break their 30-year spell.  University of Galway Hurling Club last brought the Fitzgibbon Cup to Galway in 2010, the 10th time they won the tournament, with the University of Galway Football Club hoping to bring the Sigerson Cup back to Galway and make it 24 wins, having last lifted the trophy in 2022.    Professor Ciara Meehan, Dean of Students at University of Galway, said: “We are extremely proud of our Gaelic games heritage and are thrilled to be hosting the Electric Ireland Higher Education GAA and Camogie Championship Finals at the Connacht GAA Centre for Excellence and the University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome. The finals promise to be a great week of sport involving inter county players from all over the country and we hope to provide a fantastic occasion for all involved.” Director of Sport at the University of Galway, Des Ryan, said: “We are delighted to be hosting these three prestigious sporting competitions. Openness is one of the University of Galway's values and I am delighted we can live this value by welcoming the many teams to University of Galway, with a 'Céad Míle Fáilte'. We have a strong Gaelic games heritage in the University and I am looking to see this grow by competing, hosting, enjoying, educating and supporting Gaelic games in the west of Ireland." John Prenty, Connacht GAA Secretary, said: “Connacht GAA are delighted to join University of Galway to be hosts once again for third level GAA championships. In recent years we have hosted third level football championship finals 2017, the Higher Education Championship Ladies football weekend in 2023 and the Camogie weekend in 2024. It is wonderful to see the stars of the future in action at third level being coached and managed by students in many cases. It is the essence of what we in the GAA like to see occur at third level, creating the leaders of the future. “Congratulations to the University of Galway GAA encompassing hurling, football, ladies Gaelic football and camogie in the great work that is being carried out as a leader in third level GAA. Many thanks to all those in the sports department and in the college administration for their support. The great alliance of Connacht GAA and the University in the sponsorship of the world-famous University of Galway Connacht GAA Air Dome is a sign of the great collaboration between two organisations that are heavily invested in the youth of our country. On behalf of all in Connacht GAA we look forward to a week of great action in February.” For all info see www.gaa.ie and www.camogie.ie and stay tuned for updates by following @Camogie_OG, @camogie, @ElectricIreland and through using #FirstClassRivals. Ends

Reáchtálfaidh Ollscoil na Gaillimhe Cluichí Ceannais Ardoideachais CLG agus Camógaíochta Electric Ireland, 2025. Beidh na cluichí ceannais ar siúl in Ionad CLG Chonnacht agus i nDóm Aeir CLG Chonnacht agus Ollscoil na Gaillimhe i mBéacán, Co. Mhaigh Eo ón 8 go dtí an 15 Feabhra. Imreofar níos mó ná 25 cluiche peile, iománaíochta agus camógaíochta thar thréimhse seacht lá. Agus 13 fhoireann againn san iomaíocht idir na rannóga go léir, is cinnte go mbeidh Ollscoil na Gaillimhe ag súil le coirn a chrochadh leo sna trí spórt. Dúirt Uachtarán Eatramhach Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, an tOllamh Peter McHugh: “Feictear na himreoirí óga CLG is fearr sa tír ag na comórtais seo agus tá lúcháir orainn na trí chluiche ceannais a reáchtáil i mbliana. Guím gach rath ar na himreoirí ar fad i mbliana agus mholfainn dóibh siúd ar fad ar spéis leo peil, iomáint agus camógaíocht teacht go hIarthar na hÉireann chun tacú lena gcuid foirne.” Tá Club Camógaíochta Ollscoil na Gaillimhe ag cur trí fhoireann chun páirce den chéad uair riamh. Tá an bua faighte cheana féin ag na foirne idirmheánacha agus sóisir sa chéad bhabhta dá gcomórtais chraoibhe, Corn Uí Mhaolagáin agus Corn Ashling Murphy. Beidh an fhoireann sinsir ag imirt ag an leibhéal is airde camógaíochta den chéad uair ó 2017 agus beidh siad ar a ndícheall Corn Ashbourne a bhuachan agus deireadh a chur leis an seal 30 bliain atá caite acu gan bhua.  Ba sa bhliain 2010 go deireadh a thug Club Iomána Ollscoil na Gaillimhe Corn Mhic Giobúin go Gaillimh, an 10ú huair a bhuaigh siad an comórtas; agus tá súil ag Cumann Peile Ollscoil na Gaillimhe Corn Sigerson a thabhairt ar ais go Gaillimh don 24ú huair, agus an corn buaite acu go deireadh sa bhliain 2022.    Bhí an méid seo a leanas le rá ag an Ollamh Ciara Meehan, Déan na Mac Léinn in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe: “Táimid thar a bheith bródúil as ár dtraidisiún sna cluichí Gaelacha agus tá áthas orainn Cluichí Ceannais Ardoideachais CLG agus Camógaíochta Electric Ireland a eagrú in Ionad Sárchaighdeáin CLG Chonnacht agus i nDóm Aeir CLG Chonnacht agus Ollscoil na Gaillimhe. Is cinnte gur seachtain iontach spóirt a bheidh sna cluichí ceannais ina mbeidh imreoirí idirchontae as gach cearn den tír páirteach, agus tá súil againn ócáid iontach a chur ar fáil do gach duine a bheidh i láthair.” Dúirt Stiúrthóir Spóirt Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, Des Ryan: “Tá an-áthas orainn na trí chomórtas spóirt mór le rá seo a reáchtáil. Tá an oscailteacht ar cheann de luachanna Ollscoil na Gaillimhe agus tá an-áthas orm gur féidir linn an luach seo a bhaint amach trí na céadta míle fáilte a chur roimh na foirne ar fad go hOllscoil na Gaillimhe. Tá oidhreacht láidir cluichí Gaelacha againn san Ollscoil agus ba mhaith liom borradh a fheiceáil ag teacht faoin réimse seo, tarlóidh sé sin trí bheith san iomaíocht, comórtais a reáchtáil, sult a bhaint as na spóirt, oideachas a chur ar dhaoine agus tacú le cluichí Gaelacha in iarthar na hÉireann.” Dúirt John Prenty, Rúnaí CLG Chonnacht: “Tá an-áthas ar CLG Chonnacht a bheith ag obair i gcomhpháirt le hOllscoil na Gaillimhe in eagrú na gcraobhchomórtas CLG don tríú leibhéal. D'eagraíomar na cluichí ceannais peile tríú leibhéal in 2017, deireadh seachtaine Pheil na mBan sa Chraobh Ardoideachais in 2023 agus deireadh seachtaine na Camógaíochta in 2024. Is iontach an rud é laochra na todhchaí a fheiceáil ar an bpáirc ag an tríú leibhéal agus iad á dtraenáil agus á mbainistiú ag mic léinn i mórán cásanna. Is é seo an rud is maith linne sa CLG a fheiceáil ag tarlú ag an tríú leibhéal, ceannairí na todhchaí á gcruthú. “Comhghairdeas le CLG Ollscoil na Gaillimhe as iománaíocht, peil, peil na mban agus camógaíocht a chuimsiú san obair iontach atá ar siúl acu agus iad ag feidhmiú mar cheannaire CLG ag an tríú leibhéal. Míle buíochas le gach éinne sa roinn spóirt agus in oifigí riaracháin na hollscoile as a dtacaíocht. Is léiriú ar an gcomhoibriú breá idir an dá eagraíocht atá go mór ar son óige na tíre an chomhpháirtíocht iontach idir CLG Chonnacht agus an Ollscoil san urraíocht ar Dhóm Aeir CLG Chonnacht agus Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, ionad a bhfuil clú domhanda air. Thar ceann gach duine in CLG Chonnacht, táimid ag tnúth le seachtain iontach spóirt i Feabhra.” Tá gach eolas ar fáil ar www.gaa.ie agus www.camogie.ie agus beidh na scéalta is déanaí le fáil @Camogie_OG, @camogie, @ElectricIreland agus trí leas a bhaint as #FirstClassRivals. Críoch