February

University of Galway has welcomed the award of Government funding to progress the development of a new School of Medicine Building and support the expansion of healthcare education.  The investment was announced by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless T.D., as part of a €75million capital programme which is being made available through the Healthcare Education Activation Programme (HEAP) under Project Ireland 2040.  The Government funding supports the building of the new School of Medicine Building at University of Galway, as well as a new Masters in Pharmacy programme, which is in its first year, and a new Graduate Entry Medicine (Rural and Connected Health) degree which is due to commence in September 2027.  The University’s new School of Medicine Building is to be built on the south campus, a short distance from the Quadrangle, where it will join the Block E building, a protected structure of historical and architectural significance.  The new building development complements the expansion of healthcare courses at University of Galway - the five-year MPharm, which commenced in September 2025 and will offer 75 student places at full roll-out, and the new Graduate Entry Medicine (Rural and Connected Health) programme which is due to begin in September 2027 to address critical medical workforce deficits, with 48 places available for students at full roll-out.  Professor David Burn, President of University of Galway, said: “Government funding for University of Galway to expand of healthcare education and state-of-the-art teaching and learning facilities is a strong acknowledgement of the role which our institution plays both regionally and nationally. I would like to thank Minister Lawless, the Department and the Higher Education Authority for the support. This investment in University of Galway ensures we are primed to play a critical role in the development of the next generation of healthcare specialists and leaders.”   Dr Martina Ni Chúlain, Director of Strategic Development at the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at University of Galway, said: “With investment of this nature and our planned developments in healthcare teaching and learning at University of Galway, we are turning our strategy into action. This new medical school building strengthens our established position as a national and international leader in medical education and research, further advancing the student experience, the excellence of our academics and researchers and delivering meaningful benefits for our region, for patients and for the wider health sector.”  Professor Robert Scully, Programme Director of the new Graduate Entry Medicine, said: “This new facility represents a transformative investment in the future of medicine and health sciences at the University of Galway. Designed as a vibrant, co-located hub for interdisciplinary learning and discovery, it enables us to deliver medical and healthcare education through cutting-edge, technology-enabled teaching practices and redefines how we prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals.”   Professor Laurence Egan, Head of the School of Medicine at University of Galway, said: “The new School of Medicine Building will not only transform how we teach and learn, but also strengthen the way we collaborate across disciplines and engage with our healthcare partners. It will foster a model of medical education that champions innovation, teamwork, and a deep connection to the evolving healthcare needs of our region and beyond.” The University secured planning approval for the development of the new School of Medicine Building last September. The building design runs over four storeys, covering approximately 3,925sq metres, and is integrated, via a glazed atrium link, with the existing Block E building, a protected structure of historical and architectural significance.  It will offer state-of-the-art facilities for teaching and research, including tutorial, seminar and meeting rooms, study spaces and collaboration areas, advanced research laboratories and administration offices.  As part of the University’s broader sustainability goals, the design includes plant systems and solar PV panels to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Ends

Public events held on themes of remembrance, culture and debate  University of Galway has marked the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine with a series of public events on campus bringing together remembrance, film, literature, art and political reflection. The special anniversary programme was organised as part of the University’s involvement in the Global Coalition of Ukrainian Studies, an international initiative coordinated by the office of the President of Ukraine. The events took place on Monday February 23rd and Tuesday February 24th, opening with a special screening of the Sundance Film Festival award winning documentary 2000 Meters to Andriivka.  The programme also saw the unveiling of the Ukraine Shelf, a dedicated collection of Ukrainian literature and scholarship in the University of Galway Library.  Deputy President and Registrar, Professor Becky Whay, said: “Our anniversary programme reflects University of Galway’s commitment to global citizenship and responsibilities as a public university, examining the human, cultural and environmental costs of the war, and the role of memory, language and creativity in resisting erasure.”  Associate Professor Tom Felle, who leads University of Galway’s involvement in the Coalition, said: “University of Galway is one of only two Irish universities in the Global Coalition of Ukrainian Studies, a network of globally recognised institutions advancing teaching, research and public engagement on Ukraine. Our events mark four years on since the full-scale invasion by Russia and demonstrate our commitment to deepening ties with Ukraine at an academic and community level.”  Full details of the anniversary programme: Monday February 23rd at 5.30pm: A special screening of 2000 Meters to Andriivka THB-G011 (Hardiman Research Building) followed by a discussion.  Tuesday February 24th at 11.30am: Service of Hope With Ukraine in the Chapel of St Columbanus, led jointly by Fr Ben Hughes in English and Fr Dmytro Hutnyk in Ukrainian.  Following that, at midday, Words That Remain will feature readings from contemporary Ukrainian poets and writers writing during the war.  Tuesday February 24th at 12:45pm: Launch of the University’s Ukraine Shelf, a dedicated collection of Ukrainian literature and scholarship in the University of Galway Library.   Following that, in THB-G011 (Hardiman Research Building), a panel discussion Resilient Ukraine: Land, Voices and Art will examine how Ukrainians continue to assert identity, culture and survival under conditions of invasion and displacement. It includes contributions from Dr Brendan Flynn, School of Political Science and Sociology and the Ryan Institute, speaking on land, nature and memory in Ukraine’s war for survival, drawing connections with Ireland’s own history of land, dispossession and resistance; journalist and writer Natalya Korniyenko, co-founder of the Ukrainian Cultural Centre in Ireland, reflecting on the ethical role of writing in wartime, based on her work with Ukrainian writers, poets and journalists currently working on the frontline; and Tetiana Vysotska, PhD student at the University of Galway, art therapist, poet, artist and filmmaker, speaking about art as voice and advocacy, drawing on her work with displaced children and adults and the role of creative practice in mental health, recognition and care.  Tuesday February 24th, 4pm: Public screening of the first feature film about the Russian invasion of Ukraine People. The screening is intended for an English-speaking audience. The film is a powerful, honest and deeply human story about five women’s survival after war was visited on them in their homes, cities and destinies. The film is a tribute to the unseen victims.  Ends 

ARC Hub for HealthTech established to fast-track commercial impact of patient-focused solutions Research Ireland’s ARC Hub programme positions Northern and Western Region as global leader in new healthcare technology The new ARC Hub for HealthTech, a multimillion-euro Government investment to drive regional development by accelerating the commercialisation of cutting-edge, patient-focused research, has been officially launched today at University of Galway.  Focused on developing solutions to improve chronic disease management, the aim of the ARC Hub for HealthTech is to fast-track high-potential technologies in areas such as smart implants, advanced wearable medical devices, novel sensors and AI and machine learning-driven modelling.  Hosted by the University of Galway, in partnership with Atlantic Technological University (ATU) and RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, the initiative forms part of Research Ireland’s flagship Accelerating Research to Commercialisation (ARC) programme.  Twenty-three projects are currently in the ARC Hub for HealthTech after being selected for their strong potential to improve patient outcomes.  The launch of the ARC Hub for HealthTech - under the theme of ‘Regional Roots. Global Presence’ - included a call for new projects to be assessed for funding and support on the journey to commercialisation and a showcase of some of the current projects which are being fast-tracked to commercialisation, including advanced sensory detection devices to prevent falls in elderly people and intelligent devices to help control blood pressure.  Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, T.D., said: “The ARC Hub for HealthTech has the potential to deliver game-changing acceleration of research commercialisation that will directly benefit individuals and communities in the West and North-West and further afield. As it continues to ramp up its operations and establish partnerships, the ARC Hub’s ambitions are clear and far-reaching. I look forward to seeing the Hub progress in its endeavours, outputs and impact over the coming years.”  Dr Diarmuid O’Brien, Chief Executive of Taighde Éireann-Research Ireland, said: “The ARC Hub programme is one of the most proactive, imaginative and potentially disruptive programmes ever delivered by Research Ireland. Bringing together our leading researchers, entrepreneurs, investors and industry to create an environment where our best research ideas can be translated from the lab to the market represents an inclusive and scalable model for creating companies of the future.”   Peter Power, Head of the European Commission Representation in Ireland, said: “The ARC Hub for HealthTech is an operation of strategic importance under the European Regional Development Fund programme for the Northern and Western region. It aligns with the objective of EU Cohesion policy to support thriving innovation ecosystems for all regions. Thanks to the ARC Hub for HealthTech, research will be translated into marketable products, thereby boosting the competitiveness of both the Northern and Western region and European competitiveness.”  President of University of Galway, Professor David Burn, said: “Today we are announcing more than a research and innovation entity – the ARC Hub for HealthTech is a remarkable opportunity to create a global powerhouse for healthcare in the Northern and Western regions of Ireland. With our partners and regional collaboration, we are seizing the moment to push the commercial impact of research with new supports, at a faster pace, with the overarching aim of bringing new healthcare, treatments and therapies to patients.”  President of Atlantic Technological University, Dr Orla Flynn, said: "ATU is delighted to be involved in the ARC Hub for HealthTech, working with our partners to advance health‑tech research and innovation. Through this collaboration, we are supporting the development of new technologies, strengthening research and creating clearer pathways for bringing scientific discovery into real‑world healthcare solutions. I wish the team every success in these endeavours, and to thank the funders for their support.”  Professor Cathal Kelly, Vice Chancellor of RCSI, said: “Improving patient outcomes must always be at the heart of health technology innovation. At RCSI, we are proud to be part of this ambitious collaboration, enabling researchers and innovators to work at pace, ensuring new technologies are clinically relevant, patient-focused, commercially translatable and capable of improving outcomes both nationally and internationally.”  Conall McGettigan, Northern and Western Regional Assembly, said: “The project constitutes an innovative initiative designed to accelerate regional development by expediting early-stage, advanced research to commercialisation. In alignment with Ireland’s smart specialisation strategy and by fostering entrepreneurial ideas within the research and innovation ecosystem, the Hub will facilitate the transformation of innovative concepts into tangible economic and societal benefits for the Northern and Western Region.”  Professor Garry Duffy, Professor of Health Technology Innovation at University of Galway, Professor of Anatomy at RCSI and Director of the ARC Hub for HealthTech, said: “The ARC Hub bridges the gap between exceptional medical research and real-world impact. With regional roots and a global presence, we're empowering researchers to become entrepreneurs and ensuring that HealthTech innovations developed in Ireland reach patients and markets worldwide.”  The ARC Hub for HealthTech was established in 2025 with a landmark funding investment of €34.3 million by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Northern & Western Regional Programme 2021-2027. It aims to position the Northern and Western Region as a national and international leader in the commercialisation of health technologies.  The initiative is designed to support the development of entrepreneurial scientists and engineers with the skills to realise opportunities to create start-up companies from research. It will equip researchers with early clinical validation pathways, entrepreneurial skills and commercialisation supports, to transform novel ideas into patient-focused healthcare solutions with global market potential.  To mark the official launch, applications have been opened for new projects to be assessed for funding and support on the journey to commercialisation.  The ARC Hub for HealthTech has the support of a high-calibre Advisory Committee whose diverse expertise will strengthen every aspect of its work. The Committee includes private investors, entrepreneurial training specialists from the US and Europe, industry leaders from various start-ups and multinational corporations, and government and public sector representatives.  The ARC Hub for HealthTech is one of a family of three ARC Hubs announced in 2025 as part of a multi-annual investment programme. The ARC Hub for Therapeutics (led by Trinity College Dublin) and ARC Hub for ICT (led by TU Dublin) are co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the Southern, Eastern and Midland Regional Programme 2021-2027.  The primary objective of the ARC Hub programme is to drive regional development by accelerating the commercialisation of novel, cutting-edge research, while also supporting the development of scientists and engineers with entrepreneurial skills to realise their commercial ambitions.  Ends  

Mol ARC do Theicneolaíochtaí Sláinte curtha ar bun chun dlús a chur le tionchar tráchtála réitigh atá dírithe ar leas an othair Cuireann an clár Mol ARC de chuid Taighde Éireann Réigiún an Tuaiscirt agus an Iarthair chun cinn mar cheannaire domhanda i dteicneolaíocht sláinte nua   Seoladh an Mol ARC do Theicneolaíochtaí Sláinte nua in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe inniu. Infheistíocht de chuid an Rialtais arbh fhiú na milliúin euro í a bhfuil sé mar aidhm aici forbairt na réigiún a chur chun cinn trí dhlús a chur le tráchtálú taighde ceannródaíoch atá dírithe ar leas an othair. An aidhm atá ag an Mol ARC do Theicneolaíochtaí Sláinte réitigh a fhorbairt a chabhróidh le bainistiú galar ainsealach agus dlús a chur faoi theicneolaíochtaí a bhfuil ardchumas acu i réimsí cosúil le hionphlanduithe cliste, ardfhearais leighis inchaite, braiteoirí úrscothacha chomh maith le samhaltú bunaithe ar AI agus ar mheaisínfhoghlaim. Tá an tionscnamh á óstáil ag Ollscoil na Gaillimhe i gcomhpháirt le hOllscoil Teicneolaíochta an Atlantaigh (ATU) agus Ollscoil Leighis agus Eolaíochtaí Sláinte RCSI agus is cuid de mhórchlár Taighde Éireann ‘Ó Thaighde go Tráchtálú’ (ARC) é. Tá 23 thionscadal san áireamh leis an Mol ARC do Theicneolaíochtaí Sláinte faoi láthair tar éis dóibh a bheith roghnaithe i ngeall ar an acmhainn láidir atá acu feabhas a chur ar thorthaí d’othair. San áireamh le seoladh an Mhoil ARC do Theicneolaíochtaí Sláinte, arb é an téama atá aige ‘Fréamhaithe sna Réigiúin, Láithreacht Dhomhanda’, bhí gairm ar  thionscadail nua a mheas le haghaidh a maoinithe agus a dtacaithe féachaint le hiad a thráchtálú.  Cuireadh roinnt de na tionscadail reatha atá á dtráchtálú go mear ar taispeáint chomh maith agus san áireamh leo sin tá ardghairis braite céadfaí chun titim a chosc i measc daoine scothaosta agus feistí cliste a chabhraíonn le brú fola a rialú. Bhí an méid seo a leanas le rá ag James Lawless, T.D., an tAire Breisoideachais agus Ardoideachais, Taighde, Nuálaíochta agus Eolaíochta: “Tá an cumas ag an Mol ARC do Theicneolaíochtaí Sláinte éascaíocht a dhéanamh do thráchtálú taighde a rachaidh go díreach chun tairbhe an duine aonair agus an phobail san Iarthar agus san Iarthuaisceart agus níos faide i gcéin. Tá uaillmhianta an Mhoil ARC soiléir agus leitheadach agus é i mbun a chuid feidhmiúcháin a threisiú agus comhpháirtíochtaí a chur ar bun. Tá mé ag súil le hiarrachtaí, torthaí agus tionchar an Mhoil a leanúint sa blianta seo atá romhainn.” Dúirt an Dr Diarmuid O’Brien, Príomhfheidhmeannach Taighde Éireann-Research Ireland: “Ceann de na cláir is réamhghníomhaí, is samhlaíche agus, seans, is suaití atá seachadta ag Taighde Éireann riamh is ea an clár Mol ARC.  Múnla cuimsitheach agus inscálaithe chun comhlachtaí na todhchaí a chruthú is ea ár gcuid taighdeoirí, fiontraithe agus infheisteoirí is fearr a thabhairt le chéile in éineacht leis an earnáil tráchtála le go gcothófaí timpeallacht inar féidir ár smaointe taighde is fearr a aistriú ón tsaotharlann go dtí an margadh.”  Labhair Peter Power, Ceann Ionadaíocht an Choimisiúin Eorpaigh in Éirinn, mar seo a leanas: “Oibríocht is ea an Mol ARC do Theicneolaíochtaí Sláinte faoin gclár Chiste Forbraíochta Réigiúnaí na hEorpa do Réigiún an Tuaiscirt agus an Iarthair a mbaineann tábhacht straitéiseach léi. Tá sé ag teacht le polasaí Comhtháthaithe an AE tacú le héiceachórais nuálaíochta láidre do na réigiúin ar fad. Tiocfaidh táirgí don mhargadh ó thaighde a bhuíochas leis an Mol ARC do Theicneolaíochtaí Sláinte, rud a chuirfidh le hiomaíocht Réigiún an Tuaiscirt agus an Iarthair, agus le hiomaíocht na hEorpa.”  Dúirt Uachtarán Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, an tOllamh David Burn: “Ní díreach aonán taighde agus nuálaíochta atá á fhógairt inniu againn – deis faoi leith is ea an Mol ARC do Theicneolaíochtaí Sláinte lárionad domhanda don chúram sláinte a chruthú i Réigiúin Thuaisceart agus Iarthar na hÉireann. Tá an deis seo á thapú againn, in éineacht lenár gcomhpháirtithe agus leis na réigiúin, chun tionchar tráchtála an taighde seo a bhrú chun cinn le tacaíochtaí nua agus ag luas níos tapúla, agus an mhóraidhm againn cúram sláinte, cóireálacha leighis agus teiripí nua a chur ar fáil d’othair.  Bhí an méid seo le rá ag an Dr Orla Flynn, Uachtarán Ollscoil Teicneolaíochta an Atlantaigh: “Tá ATU an-sásta baint a bheith aici leis an Mol ARC do Theicneolaíochtaí Sláinte agus a bheith ag obair lenár gcomhpháirtithe chun taighde agus nuálaíocht cúraim sláinte a chur chun cinn.‑ Ligeann an chomhpháirtíocht seo dúinn tacú le forbairt teicneolaíochtaí nua, taighde a láidriú agus conairí níos soiléire a chruthú chun fionnachtana eolaíochta a chur chun feidhme do réitigh chúraim sláinte phraiticiúla. Guím gach rath ar an bhfoireann leis na hiarrachtaí seo, agus gabhaim buíochas leis na maoinitheoirí as a dtacaíocht.” Dúirt an tOllamh Cathal Kelly, Leas-Seansailéir RCSI: “Ní mór don nuálaíocht sa teicneolaíocht sláinte a bheith dírithe i gcónaí ar fheabhas a chur ar thorthaí d’othair. Tá bród orainn san RCSI a bheith páirteach sa chomhpháirtíocht uaillmhianach seo trína gcuirtear ar chumas taighdeoirí agus nuálaithe oibriú go héifeachtach chun a chinntiú go gcuirfear teicneolaíochtaí nua ar fáil atá ábhartha go cliniciúil, dírithe ar an othar, inaistrithe don earnáil tráchtála agus in ann torthaí a fheabhsú go náisiúnta agus go hidirnáisiúnta.” Seo mar a labhair Conall McGettigan, Tionól Réigiúnach an Tuaiscirt agus an Iarthair: “Tionscnamh nuálaíoch is ea an tionscadal seo a bhfuil sé mar aidhm aige dlús a chur le forbairt réigiúnach trí éascaíocht a dhéanamh taighde ardleibhéil luathchéime a thabhairt chomh fada le tráchtálú. Agus é ag teacht le straitéis speisialaithe chliste na hÉireann agus trí smaointe fiontraíochta a chothú laistigh den éiceachóras taighde agus nuálaíochta, éascóidh an Mol claochlú coincheapa nuálaíocha le go mbainfidh Réigiún an Tuaiscirt agus an Iarthair tairbhí inbhraite eacnamaíocha agus sóisialta astu.” Dúirt an tOllamh Garry Duffy, Ollamh le Nuálaíocht Teicneolaíochta Sláinte in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, Ollamh le hAnatamaíocht in RCSI agus Stiúrthóir an Mhoil ARC do Theicneolaíochtaí Sláinte: “Dúnann an Mol ARC an bhearna idir taighde leighis den scoth agus tionchar praiticiúil ar an saol mór. Bíodh is go bhfuil fréamhacha sna réigiúin againn táimid dár gcur féin i láthair go domhanda, agus taighdeoirí á gcumhachtú againn le bheith ina bhfiontraithe. Táimid ag cinntiú chomh maith go mbainfidh othair ar fud an domhain leas as na nuálaíochtaí i dTeicneolaíocht na Sláinte atá á bhforbairt in Éirinn agus go mbeidh fáil orthu ar mhargaí an domhain.” Bunaíodh an Mol ARC do Theicneolaíochtaí Sláinte in 2025 nuair a rinne Rialtas na hÉireann agus an tAontas Eorpach, trí Chlár Réigiúnach an Tuaiscirt & an Iarthair 2021-2027 de chuid CFRE, infheistíocht shuntasach arbh fhiú €34.3 milliún í. An aidhm atá aige ceannaire náisiúnta agus idirnáisiúnta a dhéanamh as Réigiún an Tuaiscirt agus an Iarthair i dtaobh teicneolaíochtaí sláinte a thráchtálú. Féachann an tionscnamh le tacú le forbairt eolaithe agus innealtóirí a bhfuil féith na fiontraíochta iontu agus na scileanna a thabhairt dóibh a chuirfidh ar a gcumas comhlachtaí nuathionscanta a chruthú de bhun an taighde atá siúl acu. Tabharfaidh sé conairí do thaighdeoirí chun bailíochtú cliniciúil luath a dhéanamh, mar aon le scileanna fiontraíochta agus tacaíochtaí tráchtála le go gcuirfear ar a gcumas réitigh cúraim sláinte atá dírithe ar an othar agus a d’fhéadfaí a chur ar an margadh domhanda a dhéanamh as smaointe úrnua. Tá an clár seolta go hoifigiúil anois agus is féidir iarratais a dhéanamh chun go ndéanfar measúnú ar thionscadail nua le haghaidh a maoinithe agus a dtacaithe agus iad ag dul i dtreo a dtráchtálaithe. Tá Coiste Comhairleach láidir ag tacú leis an Mol ARC do Theicneolaíochtaí Sláinte agus láidreoidh a saineolas éagsúil gach gné dá chuid oibre.  Tá infheisteoirí príobháideacha ar an gCoiste chomh maith le speisialtóirí in oiliúint d’fhiontraithe ó na Stáit Aontaithe agus ón Eoraip, ceannairí ón earnáil tráchtála ó chomhlachtaí nuathionscanta éagsúla agus ó chorparáidí ilnáisiúnta, agus ionadaithe rialtais agus earnála poiblí. Ceann de thrí Mhol ARC a fógraíodh in 2025 mar chuid de chlár infheistíochta ilbhliantúil is ea an Mol ARC do Theicneolaíochtaí Sláinte. Tá an Mol ARC don Teiripic (faoi stiúir Choláiste na Tríonóide, Baile Átha Cliath) agus an Mol ARC ICT (faoi stiúir Ollscoil Teicneolaíochta (TU) Bhaile Átha Cliath) á gcómhaoiniú ag Rialtas na hÉireann agus an tAontas Eorpach trí Chlár Réigiúnach 2021-2027 an Deiscirt, an Oirthir agus Lár Tíre. Is é príomhchuspóir an chláir Mol ARC forbairt réigiúnach a chur chun cinn trí dhlús a chur le tráchtálú taighde úrnua ceannródaíoch agus ag an am céanna, tacú le forbairt eolaithe agus innealtóirí a bhfuil scileanna fiontraíochta acu a n-uaillmhianta tráchtála a bhaint amach. Críoch

New international study co-authored by University of Galway researchers shows that how animals live and move determines how quickly they see the world Animals do not just see the world differently from one another, they experience time itself at dramatically different speeds, researchers have revealed. The major new study shows that the speed at which an animal lives and moves strongly predicts how quickly it can visually process the world around it. The team of scientists - a collaboration between the University of Galway and Trinity College Dublin - analysed visual perception across 237 species in the animal kingdom, from insects and birds to mammals and marine life. The findings, published in the international journal Nature Ecology & Evolution, provide the strongest evidence to date that ecology and evolution shape how animals perceive time. The researchers found that that species with fast-paced ecologies - such as flying animals and “pursuit predators”, which chase fast, manoeuvrable prey - have much faster visual perception than slow-moving or sedentary species.             Dr Kevin Healy, co-author and Head of the Macroecology lab at the University of Galway’s School of Natural Sciences, said: “These results support a long-standing idea known as Autrum’s hypothesis, which in simple terms states that sensory systems evolve to match an animal’s way of life. What’s new is that we demonstrate this pattern across the entire animal kingdom, not just within small groups of species.”             Lead author Dr Clinton Haarlem, from Trinity’s School of Natural Sciences, said: “From a dragonfly tracking prey in mid-air to a starfish grazing slowly across the seabed, animals live in very different perceptual worlds. Our results show that these differences are not random. Instead, they are closely linked to how animals move, hunt, and interact with their environments.” Measuring the speed of sight To measure how quickly animals can process visual information, the researchers used a standard metric called “critical flicker fusion (CFF)”, which is the fastest rate at which a flickering light can be perceived as distinct rather than continuous. Higher CFF values indicate faster visual processing. While humans typically perceive flicker up to around 60 Hz, some insects and birds can detect changes at more than 200 flashes per second, effectively experiencing a slower-moving world. The team then tested how CFF relates to ecological traits such as locomotion, foraging strategy, body size, and light environment. Among the key results were: Flying species have the fastest visual perception, with CFF values roughly twice as high as non-flying animals. Pursuit predators have significantly higher temporal resolution than species feeding on stationary or slow-moving food Light environment matters: species active in bright conditions generally have faster vision than those living in darkness or deep water In aquatic environments, smaller, more manoeuvrable species tend to see faster than larger ones Dr Kevin Healy, said: “Species which live in low light environments and have slow lifestyles were found to have extremely slow visual systems. For example, the escolar, a deep sea fish, can see less than ten frames a second while deep sea isopods, a type of crustacean, can only see a couple of frames per second. For these species the world likely passes in a blur.” Why perception speed matters Fast visual processing allows animals to react to rapid changes, which is crucial for flight, hunting, and avoiding predators – but that comes at a cost. Rapid neural processing requires more energy, meaning high-speed vision is only favoured when it provides a clear ecological advantage. The findings also raise concerns about the impacts of artificial lighting and flicker in human-modified environments.             Dr Haarlem continued: “These findings suggest species with fast visual systems may be especially vulnerable to flickering artificial lights. This could affect their hunting success, navigation, and impact predator–prey interactions, particularly in birds and aquatic predators. Understanding how animals perceive time helps us understand how they behave, evolve, and respond to environmental change. It reminds us that the world we experience is just one version of many.” By linking ecology, evolution, and perception, the study ultimately highlights how animals inhabit fundamentally different sensory realities even when they share the same habitat. The full study in Nature Ecology & Evolution is available at https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-026-02994-7 Ends  

University of Galway has announced a new partnership with Davy, Ireland’s leading provider of wealth management and investment banking services, to expand uptake in careers in finance for students from underrepresented groups. The initiative, part of Davy’s centenary celebrations, aims to support undergraduates through two new scholarships, one of which is dedicated to female students. The scholarships are designed to strengthen pathways into the financial sector at a time when demand for diverse talent continues to grow. Each year, they will be awarded to first-year students who are taking part in the University of Galway Student Managed Fund - a student‑led, global, diversified equity investment fund, established to offer students hands‑on experience in portfolio management and to enhance financial education through experiential learning. Professor Karena Yan, Dean of J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, University of Galway, said: “Davy’s support has strengthened the University of Galway’s Student Managed Fund and accelerated its impact as a high‑quality learning platform. Innovation in the financial sector begins with a diverse and dynamic learning environment. Through these new scholarships, we are helping to remove financial barriers and broaden access to opportunities in finance. This partnership reflects the School’s commitment to openness and excellence, supporting students to plan for their future and gain a competitive edge in a growing industry.” The partnership was launched by Orla Graham, Chief People Officer at Davy, and University of Galway alumna who studied Business Studies at J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, along with Eoin Cotter, Director and Head of Western Region, Davy. Orla Graham, Chief People Officer at Davy, said: “As we celebrate 100 years of serving our clients and communities, we are proud to partner with University of Galway to support the next generation of talented students as they begin their careers in financial services. At Davy, helping people plan for the future is a core part of our service – these scholarships will help shape the future of tomorrow’s leaders.” Davy’s support will create meaningful and immediate impact for recipients, equipping students with the confidence and support needed to pursue their academic goals. The scholarships are open to first-year undergraduates who are registered on a degree programme with a finance or economics component and who demonstrate strong academic potential. The successful students will be provided with €1,000, paid annually over the four years of their studies. The new partnership will support the two scholarships and the Student Managed Fund, providing both financial support as well as mentorship and guidance of the fund. The two new scholarships are: - Davy Centenary Scholarship to support students entering Year 1 of a Finance or Economics degree who are members of the Student Managed Fund. - Davy Scholarship for Females in Finance to support female students entering Year 1 of a Finance or Economics degree who are members of the Student Managed Fund, to increase participation and progression of women in finance‑related disciplines. Davy established its office in Galway in 2006 and continues to build its presence serving clients in Galway and the West. Eoin Cotter, Director and Head of Western Region, Davy, said: “This partnership represents an important milestone in our ongoing commitment to supporting education and opportunity in the West. We are proud to deepen our relationship with University of Galway as we look ahead to the next chapter.” Applicants can apply for the scholarships here: Davy Centenary Scholarship and here: Davy Females in Finance Scholarship. Learn more about eligibility and the selection process here. Ends

An international team of scientists have detailed a new technique to repair and restore function to injury-ravaged nerve tissue.  The research team at CÚRAM, the Taighde Éireann-Research Ireland Centre for Medical Devices based at University of Galway, along with colleagues from Queen Mary University of London and the Mayo Clinic in the US, have published findings of the study in the prestigious journal Cell Biomaterials.  The scientists set out to discover whether new methods to fix damaged nerve tissue could be identified, as the injury can cause irreversible loss of motor and sensory function, chronic pain and long-term disability for patients.  The team reviewed current approaches for repair of nerve tissue, including autografts which are made from a patient’s own nerve tissue; artificial nerve guides or scaffolds, which guide the growth of new nerve tissue; and gene therapy, which would essentially enable new growth.  The research led to the development a collagen-based, neural guidance conduit that embeds and releases specific proteins which promote the survival and development of neurons at the site of injury to promote nerve regeneration.  Dr Secil Demir, scientist with CÚRAM and lead author on the study, said: “Repairing nerve tissue presents a significant technical challenge. Our process was a case of putting together the pieces of a puzzle, based on data generated from years of previous research, to really understand how nerve tissue regenerates and what exactly what is missing at the injury site, that prevents its repair and regeneration. Then we considered all of the current treatment approaches to see if we could address some of the limitations to treating these injuries.”  The treatment system uses proteins which assist with neuronal survival, growth and blood vessel development.  Dr Demir said: “Collaboration with colleagues at the Mayo Clinic in reviewing data from previous studies led us to a combination of the geneserythropoietin (EPO) gene and nerve growth factor (NGF) a protein that promotes the survival and development of neurons. We were able to figure out the best ratio of EPO and NGF to accelerate nerve regeneration and improve functional recovery in larger nerve injuries.”  The model developed by the research team in the lab enables continuous, targeted release of protein within the repair zone, re-engaging key regenerative pathways, offering a clinically translatable strategy to improve peripheral nerve repair.  The research is the first time a non-viral, gene-functionalised collagen conduit, containing optimal ratios of these specific proteins has been used to achieve nerve and blood vessel activation in a large injury.  Professor Abhay Pandit, senior author and Scientific Director of CÚRAM, said: “Integration of this protein-delivery strategy into a clinically validated collagen conduit, addresses some of the core limitations of traditional neural guidance conduits, including limited translation beyond short-gap injuries. These findings align with the growing body of work on biomaterial systems that help regenerate complex tissue and we are excited to look at the next stage of this research.”  The full article is available at here.  Ends

University of Galway receives highest number of research awards from Environmental Protection Agency University of Galway has received the highest number of successful research awards from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that aim to address urgent challenges in climate and environmental challenges. Eight projects were awarded a total of €2.4 million for innovative, policy-relevant research to identify knowledge gaps and support the development of vital research capacity in strategically important areas that are relevant to environmental and climate policy. Aengus Parsons, Acting Vice-President for Research and Innovation at University of Galway, said: “Our researchers are to be commended for their vision and dedication to addressing the urgent environmental challenges of our times. We thank the Environmental Protection Agency for this support, which strengthens our commitment to research and innovation around sustainable and resilient environments. I look forward to seeing these projects progress to impacts across climate policy, coastal risk, air quality, emissions reduction, peatland resilience, the bioeconomy, and water quality.” The eight research projects awarded funding are: Dr Edelle Doherty leads the €158,470 Seasonal WAC (Low-Flow statistics for Assimilative Capacity Assessments) project, which is developing a better way to measure how river levels change between wetter winters and drier summers in Ireland as the climate changes. The project’s aim is to help the EPA set fair but protective pollution limits for wastewater discharges; protecting rivers during dry summer periods while making smarter use of higher river flows in winter.Dr Doherty is a Lecturer/Assistant Professor in Civil Engineering, College of Science and Engineering. Professor David Styles leads the €329,420 BIO-INSIGHT (BIOeconomy INdicators for foresight) project, which will evaluate the sustainability of production systems that utilise biological resources in a cascading and circular way to maximise value. A decision support tool will generate key performance indicators for a range of biomaterials and bioenergy produced from the biorefining of wet wastes and cascading uses of wood. David Styles is a Professor in Agri-sustainability in the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, College of Science and Engineering.   Dr Féidhlim McGowan leads the €163,663 LE CHÉILE (Local Examples of Cooperation and Harnessing Experimental Insights to Lower Emissions) project, which will generate evidence on how to foster effective collective action between individuals and between groups to achieve climate mitigation targets. Dr McGowan is a Lecturer/Assistant Professor in the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, College of Business, Public Policy and Law. Professor Jurgita Ovadnevaite along with project co-lead Dr Damien Martin will lead the €470,108 SEASON (SourcEs And Sinks Of methane) The project will identify methane sources, sinks and ‘hot spots’ in Ireland by deploying and further developing state of the art emissions verification system that consists of the operational network of precise measurements, a top-down inversion model, and satellite data.Professor Ovadnevaite is Director of the Centre for Climate and Air Pollution Studies, College of Science and Engineering. Dr Martin is a Research Fellow in the Centre for Climate and Air Pollution Studies, College of Science and Engineering.   Dr Vaios Moschos leads the €329,990 AEROTREND (Air pollutant Evolution and Regulatory Outcomes through TRend EvaluatioN and Diagnostics) project, which will bring together air-quality data from monitoring stations and satellites to show how pollutants like soot and ozone are changing across Ireland, where they come from, and how well regulations are working.Dr Moschos is a Research Fellow in the Centre for Climate and Air Pollution Studies, College of Science and Engineering.   Dr Liz Coleman and Professor Karyn Morrissey will lead the €330,221 INPACT (Investigating National Policy Impacts on Atmospheric Climate) project, which will assess the impact of historical policy interventions on Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions, atmospheric composition and climate indicators. This project will help to identify effective policy pathways to facilitate emission reduction and provide interactive data tools to work towards future climate targets and commitments.Dr Coleman is from the Centre for Climate and Air Pollution Studies, College of Science and Engineering and will work on this project with a cross-disciplinary team that includes Professor Karyn Morrissey, J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, College of Business, Public Policy and Law, and Dr Andy Donald, a Research Fellow at the Insight Research Ireland Centre for Data Analytics. Dr Saeed Hamood Alsamhi leads the €494,999 project SMART-Sinks (Dataspace for Empowered Monitoring of Peatland Stability and Climate Resilience in Ireland), which supports evidence-based peatland restoration, ecosystems, and climate resilience in Ireland. The project is an AI-powered environmental dataspace designed to protect and enhance Ireland’s peatlands. SMART-Sinks integrates data from satellite imagery, in-situ sensors, climate models, and land-use records into a FAIR-compliant platform to enable real-time monitoring of peatland vitality and carbon flux dynamics. The decision-support system will provide early warning alerts and restoration scenario simulations for policymakers and land managers. Dr Saeed Hamood Alsamhi is a Senior Research Fellow, Data Science Institute, Insight Research Ireland Centre for Data Analytics. Dr Indiana Agnieszka Olbert leads the €164,910 JointFloods (Joint probability of multi-driver floods along Ireland’s coastline) Implementing flood adaptation measures requires good understanding of the dynamics of compound coastal-fluvial floods and future flood risks. The JointFloods project aims to develop a set of tools and resources for a risk assessment associated with compound floods and provide an in-depth understanding of mechanisms of floods around the coast of Ireland. The outputs of this project can be used to inform national-to-local level adaptation planning and facilitate informed decision-making for flood risk management. Dr Indiana Agnieszka Olbert is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Engineering, College of Science and Engineering. Dr Eimear Cotter, EPA deputy director general said: "We face complex challenges in becoming a resilient, competitive and sustainable society. Research, such as that funded through the EPA research call, will play a vital role in supporting robust policy and decision-making while ensuring the protection of our environment and climate. The projects announced today will support targeted, policy‑relevant research and build connections with policy-makers and practitioners, and ultimately support more effective action. I congratulate the successful teams and look forward to seeing the positive impacts of their work." The EPA is partnering with Met Éireann and the Office of Public Works to co‑fund several of the research projects. Ends  

Researchers at University of Galway are joining forces with conservationists and the community as part of a mission to save Ireland’s hedgehogs. The group has launched a new initiative, Hedgehog Conservation Ireland, which aims to develop a nationwide conservation strategy to protect the much-loved animals. The initiative brings together researchers, wildlife rescuers and community supporters to stop population declines and ensure hedgehogs can thrive across Ireland. It is led by Elaine O’Riordan, University of Galway’s School of Natural Sciences and Ryan Institute, Dr Amy Haigh, Veon Ecology, Dr Sophie Lund Rasmussen, Natural History Museum Denmark and WildCRU, University of Oxford, and Alan Bell, Eco Restoration Trust. Hedgehog numbers have plummeted across Western Europe, and the species is now listed as ‘Near Threatened’ on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Populations are estimated to have fallen by 16-33% across their range due to habitat loss, road traffic and pesticides. Long-term monitoring in Britain shows declines of up to 75% in some rural areas, although urban populations appear more stable, highlighting the critical role that gardens, parks, and other managed green spaces play in hedgehog survival. Elaine O’Riordan, a researcher with University of Galway's School of Natural Sciences and lead of the Irish Hedgehog Survey, said: “Since 2021, the Irish Hedgehog Survey has collected over 10,000 records from the public, helping researchers track population trends and understand where hedgehogs live. The Irish public clearly love hedgehogs and want to support them, and I encourage everyone to sign up as a hedgehog helper to learn how they can make a difference at home, at work, or at school. “Everyone can help by taking simple steps to make their garden hedgehog-friendly. For example, leave some areas a little wild, create a small hole in your fence to let hedgehogs pass through, avoid using slug pellets, and cover open drains.” To learn more and become a hedgehog helper, visit https://www.hedgehogsireland.com/ Dr Sophie Lund Rasmussen, also known as Dr Hedgehog, from WildCRU at the University of Oxford, said: “The European hedgehog is declining rapidly. We are causing this decline! The good news is that there is still time to make amends! If we work together to monitor the population and provide accessible, hedgehog friendly gardens, we can save the hedgehogs.” Dr Rasmussen will also chair a stakeholder workshop in Clontarf. Co Dublin, on February 20th to discuss Ireland’s new hedgehog conservation strategy. Further workshop details are available at https://www.hedgehogsireland.com/ . Ends

University of Galway, in partnership with the HRB Diabetes Collaborative Clinical Trial Network, has announced the Novo Nordisk Ireland Scholarship recipient.  Originally from India, Dr Beenu Maria Joseph, a pharmacist with advanced training in public health, was selected in recognition of her outstanding academic achievements, strong commitment to patient-centred research, extensive community volunteering, and ongoing efforts to improve health outcomes in diabetes and chronic disease.  The award will support Dr Joseph’s completion of a Master of Science in Clinical Research this year and enable her to conduct research while strengthening her role within the Diabetes Collaborative Clinical Trial Network and the broader diabetes community. The Novo Nordisk Ireland Scholarship, supported by the Galway University Foundation, provides full financial support for a student completing their chosen Master of Science in either Clinical Research, Applied Clinical Data Analytics, or Evidence-Based Future Healthcare.             Dr Beenu Maria Joseph said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the Novo Nordisk Scholarship, which represents a significant milestone in my academic and professional journey. This award provides an exceptional opportunity to further develop my expertise in both clinical and academic research. With a background in pharmacy and formal training in public health, I am committed to building a career that bridges clinical practice, research, and population health. I aim to pursue work where evidence-based research informs practice and policy, contributing to long-term improvements in healthcare systems. My volunteering experiences have been central to shaping this motivation, reinforcing my dedication to patient engagement and the delivery of compassionate, evidence-based care.”             Professor Fidelma Dunne, Director of the HRB Diabetes Collaborative Clinical Trial Network and the Institute for Clinical Trials at University of Galway, said: “We are delighted to acknowledge Dr Beenu Maria Joseph as the recipient of this scholarship and to commend the impressive achievements she has made to date. Her passion for research, strong academic record and commitment to improving patient care exemplify the purpose of this award. We are deeply appreciative of Novo Nordisk Ireland for their generous support, which allows us to invest in the next generation of researchers whose work will shape the future of diabetes care in Ireland and beyond. Their partnership is instrumental in advancing education, research and patient outcomes.”           Dr Jennifer Day, Clinical Research Manager, Novo Nordisk, said: “We are delighted to be working with University of Galway to award Dr Beenu Maria Joseph the Novo Nordisk Ireland scholarship for her research work on diabetes. Our purpose is to drive change to defeat diabetes and other serious chronic diseases. We are committed to fostering pioneering scientific breakthroughs, expanding access to our medicines, and working to prevent and ultimately cure disease. Novo Nordisk has a 100-year history as leaders within the therapeutic area of diabetes, using our innovations to find solutions for patients with the chronic disease.” Ends

 University of Galway is opening its doors to families of all ages for a free, hands-on event designed to inspire the next generation of engineers and showcase the vital role engineering plays in everyday life. As part of Engineers Week 2026, ‘Engineering Our Future: Family Fun Day’ takes place on Saturday February 28th from 10am-4pm, at the Alice Perry Engineering Building. Organised by the School of Engineering, the event offers an exciting programme of interactive demonstrations, creative workshops, and hands-on activities. Visitors can explore the world of engineering through fun experiences like building structures, discovering the science behind water networks, experimenting with robotics and 3D printing, enjoying virtual reality, tackling LEGO challenges and even engineering through slime, and much more. Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet engineers and researchers, learn about cutting-edge innovations, and see first-hand how engineering shapes homes, cities and the world of tomorrow.             Professor David Burn, President of University of Galway, said: “Engineering turns imagination into reality. Engineers shape the world by solving problems, building connections and improving lives every day. This is particularly important in addressing current global challenges of climate change and providing technology and infrastructure required by the growing human population.”             Professor Jamie Goggins from the University’s School of Engineering and Director of Construct Innovate, said: “Children are natural engineers. They love to design and build things, using whatever they can get their hands on. With knowledge, innovation and creativity, engineers change the reality and future of all human beings. Join us for the Engineering Our Future: Family Fun Day and explore Engineering through exciting and fun hands-on activities and shows, as well as meeting with practicing engineers to better learn about the world around us, understand the role of Engineering in our lives and its impact on our future.” Tickets are free and can be booked in advance for some shows and activities, but it will also be possible to attend shows without pre-booking on a first-come-first-served basis on the day. For more information and booking details, visit: https://www.universityofgalway.ie/engineersweek/familyfunday/ The event is supported by Engineers Ireland West, Construct Innovate, Arup and MaREI Centre. Ends

International research team pinpoints high-risk areas to inform global scorpion sting prevention   An international team of scientists have identified how to pinpoint and predict hotspots for some of the most dangerous species of scorpion in the world. The researchers have established the key environmental conditions that determine where lethal, venomous arachnids thrive - findings that could help shine a light on flashpoints for scorpion stings in tropical regions across the globe. The team of scientists used field observations in Africa combined with computer modelling to predict where dangerous scorpion species are most likely to be found and what factors influence their distributions. Their analysis uncovered a striking pattern - soil type largely determines where most scorpions live, while temperature, both average and seasonal ranges, play a key role for some species. Crucially, not all scorpions behave alike. Some are adaptable and widespread, while several others showed extremely restricted predicted distributions, suggesting narrow habitat requirements and localised risk zones. The research was conducted by an international team from University of Galway, in partnership with University Ibn Zohr in Morocco. The findings of the study are published in Environmental Research Communications. It focuses on central Morocco, one of the most severe global hotspots for scorpion stings, and aims to guide prevention strategies, as well as the development of new diagnostic tools and antivenoms.             Dr Michel Dugon, Head of the Venom Systems Lab at University of Galway and senior author of the study, said: “The findings could save lives. By pinpointing where dangerous scorpions are most likely to appear, health authorities can target awareness campaigns, train frontline medical staff, and focus community prevention in high-risk areas, especially protecting children. The approach can be applied wherever scorpions pose a threat, from Brazil to the Middle East and India.” Scorpion stings are a hidden global public health crisis, particularly across tropical and subtropical regions. Every year, more than 2 million people are stung. While most stings cause pain and swelling, some species can deliver venom that leads to very severe illness and death, especially in children and older people. Globally, scorpion stings are estimated to claim the lives of more than 3,000 children annually. While antivenoms exist for a range of scorpion species, medical teams often struggle to identify which species is responsible, making timely, effective treatment difficult. To address this issue, the researchers used a computer-mapping tool called Maximum Entropy to predict where dangerous scorpions live and what environmental conditions they prefer. The analysis uncovered the striking patterns. Using globally available data on soil, temperature, and other habitat factors, the scientist demonstrates a way to pinpoint high-risk scorpion areas outside Morocco, including regions of the tropics where detailed species records are limited. The research was carried out by established and doctoral scientists from both universities, with support from University of Galway undergraduate students who travel to Morocco annually as part of their Bachelor of Science Zoology programme.             Dr Dugon added: “Overall, we know very little about the ecology of scorpions, their venom and the best way to treat scorpion stings. Our international collaborative efforts aim to develop new tools for the prevention, diagnostic and treatment of scorpion stings globally. This requires multidisciplinary teams including public health specialists, clinicians, zoologists and members of local communities.”                 Fouad Salhi, doctoral researcher at the University Ibn Zohr of Agadir and first author of the study, said: “This research shows how biodiversity data can inform public health policies. By combining long-term fieldwork with ecological modelling, we were able to identify where dangerous scorpions are most likely to occur. We aim to have real-world impact — supporting prevention strategies, improving medical preparedness, and ultimately contribute to the reduction of the burden of scorpion stings, both in Morocco and beyond.”             Dr Colin Lawton, Head of Zoology at University of Galway and co-author of the study, said: “University of Galway is gaining momentum as a centre of excellence in zoological research, addressing questions of global importance, from fish stock to mammal conservation and animal-borne disease mitigation. We are very proud to integrate our BSc Zoology students into our research activities and international partnerships.” The full study in Environmental Research Communications is available at https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/2515-7620/ae3fef. Ends

Spoonful of honey can delay corrosive process in children as researchers stress the importance of better awareness of risks   New research from University of Galway raises awareness of the devastating injuries that can be caused to young children by button battery ingestion.  The study is the first of its kind in Ireland and highlights that children between the ages of six months and six years are at particular risk.  The research revealed that almost nine out of 10 people surveyed were not aware that a spoonful of honey can help delay the corrosive damage caused if a child swallows one of these batteries.   The team also called out concerns around a lack of safety and awareness among the general public over the risks from ingestion as well as inconsistent packaging and safety warnings.  The study has been published in the peer reviewed international Journal of Laryngology & Otology. The full paper is available to read here.   Professor Ivan Keogh, Head of the Discipline of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology at the University of Galway and Consultant Otolaryngologist-Head and Neck Surgeon at Galway University Hospitals, said: “In Ireland, button battery ingestion occurs a number of times each year, and in otherwise healthy young children it can lead to devastating, long-term, and sometimes fatal consequences.  “Button battery ingestion is a time critical, life-threatening emergency, but a spoonful of honey can reduce damage until urgent removal under general anaesthetic by experienced consultants.”  Button batteries are cheap and shiny and attractive to young children. They are found in many common household items, such as toys and remote controls.   If swallowed, larger button batteries, especially those measuring approximately 2cm in diameter, can lodge in a child’s upper oesophagus/swallow passage. Within minutes of ingestion, the negative pole of the battery starts generating an electrical current that causes ongoing caustic/burn injury to the lining of the swallow passage.   If the ingestion is unwitnessed, symptoms can be non-specific and lead to a delayed diagnosis. Eventually batteries can erode through the oesophagus into the aorta, leading to catastrophic bleeding and death.  The research, led by Professor Ivan Keogh and supported by Dr Anmol Mahesh and Mr Khalid Majeed as part of a Health Research Board grant, involved a questionnaire-based survey of 561 adults to assess public awareness of this serious and often under-recognised childhood risk.  The study revealed:  - Despite 87 per cent of respondents reporting the use of button batteries in their homes, 65 per cent had not considered their safety, and 68 per cent felt that existing packaging warnings were inadequate.  - While 80 per cent were aware that button battery ingestion can be dangerous, 88 per cent were unaware that giving a spoonful of honey can help delay the corrosive damage caused by the battery.  - Awareness of a simple, potentially life-saving intervention was particularly low, with only 11.4 per cent of participants reporting knowledge of honey as an immediate home measure to slow injury following ingestion.     The research team highlighted the need to educate the public on the dangers of button batteries among consumers including parents, the general public, healthcare professionals and retailers, to prevent further devastating impacts to young children. It noted that prevention, awareness and the development of safer technologies is key.  There are also numerous reports of devastating life changing injuries and unfortunately deaths reported in the international press.  Removal of a swallowed button battery is a time critical emergency. Safe removal involves urgent endoscopy under general anaesthetic by experienced consultants.  While some manufacturers are investing in research to develop safer button battery technologies, significant risks to children remain.   According to the National Poison Data System in the USA, button battery ingestions have increased from 745 in 1985 to 3467 cases in 2019. In the US, Reese’s Law was introduced in 2022, which mandates federal safety requirements around button battery use, making their compartments safer and more difficult for children to open.  Professor Keogh added: “Challenges persist regarding the design and marketing of button batteries and public awareness of the risks associated with ingestion. Action is required to prevent further tragedies.”  Ends   

University of Galway has hosted the UN Special Rapporteur on the human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment as part of an official country visit to Ireland. The visit of Special Rapporteur Astrid Puentes Riaño to the country focused on good practices and challenges in the implementation of human rights obligations relating to climate change and environmental protection. At University of Galway, academics in the Ryan Institute and Irish Centre for Human Rights shared expertise on issues related to rights associated with the environment and access to justice. The UN Special Rapporteur also took part in an open forum with civic and social organisations on issues linked to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment, including FairSeas, Údarás na Gaeltachta, Love Leitrim, Galway City Community Network, GLAN (Global Legal Action Network), Easkey Britton, Corrib Beo and Swan Sanctuary. Deputy President and Registrar at University of Galway, Professor Becky Whay, said: “Hosting the UN Special Rapporteur Astrid Puentes Riaño has been an excellent opportunity for University of Galway to bring our research-based insights to bear on a significant assessment of our country’s progress and obligations towards the environment and climate justice.” UN Special Rapporteur on the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment, Astrid Puentes Riaño said: “I am delighted to visit the University of Galway and to hear first-hand about the research and public policy engagement work of the Irish Centre for Human Rights and the Ryan Institute. Engagement with academia and civil society is important to my work, at a challenging time globally for human rights protection and the environment.” During the visit to Ireland, the UN Special Rapporteur is examining substantive elements of the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment in the country, including air, the sustainable use of water, healthy food systems, healthy biodiversity and ecosystems, non-toxic environments and a safe climate. She is also examining procedural elements of the right, including access to information, public participation and access to justice and issues related to the protection of environmental human rights defenders. Ms Puentes Riaño said: “My visit to Ireland is part of the ongoing work of the United Nations Special Procedures, to promote human rights and a clean healthy environment. My final report will be presented to the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, and published in all six UN languages. The work of the Irish Centre for Human Rights on climate justice and access to justice, and of the multidisciplinary Ryan Institute on the marine, environment and sustainability, is hugely important to recognising and strengthening the links between human rights and the environment.” The Special Rapporteur will present a public report on report on the Ireland visit to the United Nations Human Rights Council in March 2027. Ends

A new scholarship supporting women in engineering and digital health has been awarded for the first time at University of Galway. Jescintha George Poruthur, a postgraduate student on the MSc in Medical Electronics and Digital Health, is the inaugural recipient of the Maev Creaven Scholarship. Dorothy Creaven established the scholarship in memory of her sister, Maev Creaven, a University of Galway graduate and healthcare innovator. An Electronic Engineering graduate, Maev Creaven was widely regarded as a pioneer in her field in Ireland, combining her scientific training with a commitment to wellbeing, education and practical innovation in healthcare.             Dorothy Creaven said: “Maev believed in pushing the boundaries of innovation in healthcare and encouraging people to think beyond conventional paths. This scholarship was established in her memory to support women who are applying engineering and technology in ways that can genuinely improve lives. My family and I are proud to see her name associated with a programme that looks forward and supports the next generation of healthcare innovators.”             Professor Edward Jones, Programme Director of the MSc in Medical Electronics and Digital Health at University of Galway, said: “We’re very proud of Jescintha as the inaugural recipient of the Maev Creaven Scholarship. She is a wonderful example of the energy and commitment to innovation in medical device technology that we aim to foster in this programme, reflecting the values – innovation, compassion, and impact – that defined Maev’s work. We thank Dorothy for creating a lasting tribute to her sister’s contribution to healthcare.”             Professor Laoise McNamara, Head of the School of Engineering at University of Galway, said: “We are sincerely grateful to Dorothy Creaven for establishing this scholarship for women pursuing the MSc in Medical Electronics and Digital Health. This scholarship was created in honour of our former student Maev Creaven and reflects her strengths, passions, and commitment to these fields. This scholarship will support talented students with the potential to thrive, creating a legacy that will inspire and empower our graduates to make a meaningful difference in engineering and digital health.” Ends

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary T.D. has launched a digital edition of An Gaodhal, the world’s first newspaper dedicated to the Irish language community. The project at University of Galway was borne out of an international partnership with New York University shedding new light on the global history of the Irish.  An Gaodhal was a bilingual newspaper, published monthly in Brooklyn, New York, at the end of the 19th century, between 1881 and 1898, and is considered a seminal influence on the Irish-language movement and media.   The founder, editor and publisher of An Gaodhal was Michael J. Logan, from Milltown, Co Galway. He died in 1899.  Minister Calleary T.D., said: “I am delighted to launch this project celebrating the newspaper An Gaodhal and that my Department was able to fund a significant portion of the work. Thanks to the digitisation of this newspaper and the development of innovative OCR resources, this collection will be valuable to researchers and to the general public alike. It will enable everyone to engage with the work of Mícheál Ó Locháin and to enjoy it. Projects such as this ensure that the Irish language will have a strong presence in the digital age, which is a specific objective of the Government.” Professor Tadhg Ó hIfearnáin, Established Professor of Modern Irish at University of Galway, said: “The story of An Gaodhal reminds us of the power and position of media in public life as well as the value of the Irish language among Irish people at home and abroad. We treasure the opportunity to build on the rich legacy of Michael J. Logan toward strengthening digital humanities research and toward ensuring the digital future of the Irish language.”  The only surviving, complete series of the newspaper is preserved as part of the Special Collections at the University of Galway Library, having been bound in New York and sent to the Professor Tomás O Máille at the University in 1924 by Rev. Daniel Murphy. It contains 147 issues running to 2290 pages.  The wealth of material in the newspaper, including articles, advertisements, lists of subscribers, folklore, poetry and song along with the diversity of dialects of Irish, inspired the project team to extract the text in order to make a digitally searchable edition. The project used AI machine learning technology known as optical character recognition.  The project was completed with the support of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, Irish Institute of New York, Glucksman Ireland House, New York University, University of Galway, the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, and Foras na Gaeilge.  In the 1890s, an estimated 40% of the world’s Irish speakers were living overseas, with 400,000 Irish speakers in the US and 70,000 of them in New York.  Founder and editor of An Gaodhal, Michael J. Logan, is highly-regarded for his pioneering work. The long-running Irish-American newspaper, The Irish World named him “Father of the Irish Language Movement in America” and shortly before his death, he became the first secretary of the Gaelic League in the US.  Kathryn M. Curran, Executive Director of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, said: “These early newspapers are a historic resource for every aspect of a specific community's daily life. They offer insight into social, economic, political and cultural issues of note and concern. This project will bring a richer voice to that more detailed story."             Professor Nicholas Wolf of New York University described the methodology: “An Gaodhal was printed using Cló Gaelach – the Irish script derived from the manuscript tradition. When our project began, there were no publicly available models suitable for the team to use to create a searchable, digitised edition of the newspaper. In order to bring this pioneering publication to life in the 21st century, we trained an AI model in the Irish language and then used it to develop a bilingual model. Making An Gaodhal digitally searchable has shown how technology can help deliver parity of esteem for different language communities and their shared historical sources, including those that are under-resourced or considered minority languages.”  Dr Deirdre Ní Chonghaile, Research Fellow on the project, said: “Michael Logan and his international network of supporters and subscribers hoped for a world where Irish would thrive and, through our project, their vision can now inspire a new generation of Irish speakers to continue that legacy of dreaming big.”  The project was completed with the support of University of Galway Library and the Data Science Institute.  The AI machine learning technology used – Optical Character Recognition (OCR) – is available worldwide for many languages, including Irish. The project’s bilingual model is the first of its kind to combine multilingual and multiscript functionality and is free for other researchers to use.  All digitised issues of An Gaodhal are available through the University of Galway Digital Repository at https://digital.library.universityofgalway.ie/p/ms/categories/an-gaodhal. Ends

Tá leagan digiteach de An Gaodhal, an chéad nuachtán Gaeilge ar domhan a foilsíodh do chainteoirí Gaeilge, seolta ag Dara Calleary, T.D., an tAire Forbartha Tuaithe agus Pobail agus Gaeltachta. D’eascair an tionscadal in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe as comhpháirtíocht idirnáisiúnta le hOllscoil Nua-Eabhrac a fhéachann le taighde úrnua a dhéanamh ar scéal na nÉireannach sa domhan mór.  Nuachtán dátheangach ab ea An Gaodhal a foilsíodh go míosúil in Brooklyn, Nua-Eabhrac, ag deireadh an 19ú céad, idir 1881 agus 1898, agus meastar go raibh tionchar an-mhór aige ar ghluaiseacht agus ar mheáin na Gaeilge.   Is é Micheál Ó Lócháin, as Baile an Mhuillinn, Co. na Gaillimhe, a bhunaigh agus a d’fhoilsigh An Gaodhal agus a bhí ina eagarthóir air. Cailleadh in 1899 é.  Bhí an méid seo le rá ag Dara Calleary, T.D., an tAire Forbartha Tuaithe agus Pobail agus Gaeltachta: “Is cúis áthais dom seoladh an tionscadail seo ag ceiliúradh an nuachtáin An Gaodhal agus go raibh mo Roinn in ann cuid shuntasach den obair a mhaoiniú. A bhuí le digitiú an nuachtáin seo agus forbairt acmhainní nuálacha OCR, beidh an bailiúchán seo luachmhar do thaighdeoirí agus don phobal i gcoitinne araon. Beidh sé ar chumas gach duine dul i ngleic le hobair Mhíchíl Uí Lócháin agus taitneamh a bhaint as. Cinntíonn tionscadail mar seo go mbeidh láithreacht láidir ag an nGaeilge san aois dhigiteach, rud atá mar sprioc shonrach ag an Rialtas.” Seo mar a labhair an tOllamh Tadhg Ó hIfearnáin, Ollamh Bunaithe le Nua-Ghaeilge in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe: “Meabhraíonn scéal An Gaodhal dúinn faoina chumhachtaí atá na meáin sa saol poiblí chomh maith lena luachmhaire atá an Ghaeilge do mhuintir na hÉireann sa bhaile agus thar lear. Is mór againn an deis tógáil ar oidhreacht shaibhir Mhichíl Uí Lócháin chun taighde sna daonnachtaí digiteacha a láidriú agus todhchaí dhigiteach na Gaeilge a chinntiú.”  Is i mBailiúcháin Speisialta i Leabharlann Ollscoil na Gaillimhe atá an t-aon sraith iomlán den nuachtán atá fós ar marthain ar choimeád, ó chuir an tAthair Domhnall Ó Morcadha clúdach crua orthu i Meiriceá agus sheol chuig an Ollamh Tomás Ó Máille san Ollscoil iad i 1924. Tá 147 eagrán ann arb ionann sin agus 2290 leathanach.  Tá raidhse ábhar sa nuachtán, agus áirítear ar chuid den ábhar sin ailt, fógraí, liostaí síntiúsóirí, béaloideas, filíocht agus amhráin, chomh maith le héagsúlacht chanúintí na Gaeilge. Is é an meascán saibhir ábhair sin a spreag an fhoireann tionscadail tabhairt faoin téacs a asbhaint agus leagan digiteach inchuardaithe a chur ar fáil. Baineadh úsáid as teicneolaíocht mheaisínfhoghlama AI a dtugtar aithint optúil carachtar uirthi don tionscadal.  Cuireadh an tionscadal i gcrích le tacaíocht ó Fhondúireacht Robert David Lion Gardiner, Institiúid na hÉireann, Nua-Eabhrac, Glucksman Ireland House, Ollscoil Nua-Eabhrac, Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, Foras na Gaeilge, agus an Roinn Forbartha Tuaithe agus Pobail agus Gaeltachta.  Meastar go raibh 40% de chainteoirí Gaeilge an domhain ina gcónaí thar lear sna 1890idí, agus go raibh 400,000 acu sna Stáit Aontaithe agus 70,000 acu sin i Nua-Eabhrac.  Tá an-mheas ar bhunaitheoir agus eagarthóir An Gaodhal, Micheál Ó Lócháin, as an obair cheannródaíoch a rinne sé. Bhaist an nuachtán seanbhunaithe Gael-Mheiriceánach, The Irish World, 'the Father of the Irish Language Movement in America' air agus ceapadh é ina chéad rúnaí ar Chonradh na Gaeilge sna Stáit Aontaithe go gairid sular cailleadh é.  Dúirt Kathryn M. Curran, Stiúrthóir Feidhmiúcháin Fhondúireacht Robert David Lion Gardiner: “Acmhainn stairiúil is ea na nuachtáin luatha seo trínar féidir gach gné de ghnáthshaol pobail ar leith a chíoradh. Tugann siad léargas ar na saincheisteanna sóisialta, eacnamaíocha, polaitiúla agus cultúrtha a bhí ag dó na geirbe ag an bpobal sin. Léireofar a scéal siúd ar bhonn níos saibhre agus níos mionsonraithe a bhuíochas leis an tionscadal seo.”             Chuir an tOllamh Nicholas Wolf, Ollscoil Nua-Eabhrac, síos ar an modheolaíocht: “Baineadh úsáid as an gCló Gaelach chun An Gaodhal a phriontáil, cló a d’eascair as traidisiún na lámhscríbhinní. Nuair a chuireamar tús leis an tionscadal, ní raibh fáil ar aon samhail phoiblí a d’fheilfeadh don fhoireann agus muid ag féachaint le leagan digitithe inchuardaithe den nuachtán a sholáthar. Chuireamar oiliúint ar shamhail OCR don Ghaeilge agus bhaineamar úsáid as an tsamhail sin chun samhail dátheangach a fhorbairt d’fhonn a chur ar ár gcumas an nuachtán ceannródaíoch seo a chur ar fáil do lucht léitheoireachta an 21ú haois. Léiríonn an obair seo chun leagan digiteach inchuardaithe de An Gaodhal a sholáthar an chaoi ar féidir leis an teicneolaíocht cothromas a thabhairt do phobail teanga éagsúla agus dá bhfoinsí staire, agus san áireamh leo sin tá teangacha atá gann ar acmhainní nó a mheastar iad a bheith ina mionteangacha.”  Thagair an Dr Deirdre Ní Chonghaile, Comhalta Taighde ar an tionscadal, don obair mar seo a leanas: “Tríd an tionscadal seo, spreagann an fhís a bhí ag Micheál Ó Lócháin agus ag an lucht tacaíochta idirnáisiúnta agus síntiúsóirí a bhí aige – is í sin, go mbláthódh an Ghaeilge – an glún nua de lucht labhartha na Gaeilge agus tógtar ar an oidhreacht atá fágtha acu dúinn.”  Cuireadh an tionscadal seo i gcrích le tacaíocht ó Leabharlann Ollscoil na Gaillimhe agus ón Institiúid Eolaíochta Sonraí.  Tá an teicneolaíocht mheaisínfoghlama AI a úsáideadh – Aithint Optúil Carachtar (OCR) – ar fáil do go leor teangacha, an Ghaeilge san áireamh. Tá an tsamhail dhátheangach a chruthaigh an tionscadail seo ar an gcéad cheann a cheadaíonn feidhmeanna ilteangacha agus ilscripte le chéile agus is féidir le taighdeoirí eile úsáid a bhaint as in aisce.  Tá fáil ar gach eagrán digitithe de An Gaodhal i Stór Digiteach Leabharlann Ollscoil na Gaillimhe ag https://digital.library.universityofgalway.ie/p/ms/categories/an-gaodhal. Críoch

Specialist facility supports world-leading medical devices firm to expand research and innovation links University of Galway has today launched its new Medical Device Prototype Hub, supported by medical device company Medtronic.  The development of the facility is part of the five-year €5million signature innovation partnership between Medtronic and the University, announced in 2023, which focuses on three pillars: developing the MedTech ecosystem, STEM engagement and research.  President of University of Galway, Professor David Burn, said: “The launch of the Medical Device Prototype Hub at University of Galway marks a hugely significant milestone in our signature partnership with Medtronic but it also sends a strong message to all those in the sector and all those who are driving innovation – University of Galway is creating the ecosystem in which our partners in research and innovation can thrive. We look forward to celebrating the the breakthroughs and successes that this initiative enables.”               Ronan Rogers Senior R&D Director, Medtronic, said: “Today’s launch of the Medical Device Prototype Hub represents an exciting next step in our long‑standing partnership with University of Galway. Medtronic has deep roots in the west of Ireland, and this facility strengthens a shared commitment to advancing research, accelerating innovation, and developing the next generation of medical technologies. We are proud to invest in an ecosystem that not only drives technological progress but also supports talent development. This Hub will unlock new avenues for discovery and accelerate the path from promising ideas to real‑world medical solutions for patients.”  The Medical Device Prototype Hub forms part of the Institute for Health Discovery and Innovation which was established in the University in 2024, as part of the signature innovation partnership. It will be further supported through collaborations with government agencies and industry leaders.  The Medical Device Prototype Hub sits within University of Galway’s new Technology Services Directorate, which provides shared research infrastructure and technical expertise to underpin activities across both the Institute for Health Discovery and Innovation and the Institute for Clinical Trials, established in 2024 and 2023 respectively.  The Hub will be further enhanced through partnerships with government agencies and industry leaders, creating a collaborative environment that supports translation, innovation, and regional growth in life sciences and medical technologies.  The development is part of an integrated ecosystem at University of Galway which enables sustained, research-led development further positioning Galway as the centre of Ireland’s global MedTech hub and the University as integral to research for the public good on the world stage.  Aoife Duffy, Director of Technology Services Directorate at University of Galway, said: “The Technology Services Directorate brings together key research facilities that support fundamental research at University of Galway. It aims to advance our research excellence by bringing together state-of-the-art core facilities and making strategic decisions on infrastructure and investment. The new prototype hub significantly enhances the innovation pathway available for the university research community and wider, and we look forward to working with Medtronic on this partnership”.  Professor Ted Vaughan, Director of Institute for Health Discovery and Innovation (IHDI), said: “The Medical Device Prototype Hub will serve as a central core facility, providing the engineering infrastructure and expertise to design, build and test new devices. It adds to the vibrant healthtech and medtech ecosystem in the west of Ireland and provides fertile ground to drive its growth.  “Our vision is to make sure we have the best possible conditions for the R&D of new technologies for healthcare. Our aim is to address remaining gaps in the development pipeline, from discovery to innovation."  The Medical Device Prototype Hub has expert staff to facilitate concept creation, development and manufacturing of innovative medical device prototypes. The team offers a comprehensive suite of services to support early-stage medical device innovation, including both virtual and physical prototyping, enabling rapid design iteration through Computer Aided Design, modelling and simulation.   The Medical Device Prototype Hub provides a full service, one-stop, solution for 3D printing needs, which includes a host of expert-led design, printing and consultancy and is equipped with state-of-the-art additive manufacturing technologies for validation of prototypes.  Ends

University of Galway engineering student Nicola Latham has been awarded the Cunningham Civil and Marine Engineering Scholarship. The scholarship supports students studying civil and marine engineering providing financial assistance alongside industry recognition and is awarded based on academic performance and interest in the field. A first-year civil engineering student at University of Galway from Rosenallis, Co. Cavan, Nicola was awarded the scholarship for her dedication to her studies and her potential to contribute to the future of the engineering profession.             Danielle Cunningham, Director of Cunningham Civil and Marine Ltd, said: “Supporting young people and increasing female participation in civil engineering is essential for the future of the industry. We are proud to support students like Nicola as they begin their engineering careers.” Headquartered in Westport, Co Mayo, Cunningham Civil and Marine Ltd employs more than 80 construction professionals. The company has grown to become one of Ireland’s leading Marine Contractors with a long list of successfully delivered complex projects including major works at Greenore, Dublin and Cork Ports. Ends