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School of Natural Sciences News

11th March 2026

Rev Sam Millar Award

Congratulations to Prof Grace McCormack on receiving the Rev Sam Millar Award at the weekend. The award is in recognition of outstanding service to the preservation and promotion of the Native Irish Black Honey Bee. (9) Instagram

Smokeless fuel health risks

New research has found that burning "low smoke" manufactured fuels release tiny ultrafine particles that are potentially more harmful to human health. The study was led Professor Jurgita Ovadnevaite (Centre for Climate and Air Pollution Studies, Ryan Institute), in collaboration with partners from Ireland, China, Australia and the USA. More from The Irish Times, Newstalk Breakfast, Phys.org and Irish Medical Times.

Explore Mace Head Atmospheric Research Station, a crucial site for Integrated Carbon Observation System (ICOS), tracking our international success (or not) in reducing levels of greenhouse gases (GHGs) to slow down climate change.

Squirrel and pine marten survey

Professor Colin Lawton (School of Natural Sciences) joined Radio 1’s Mooney Goes Wild @34.07 to discuss the 2026 All-Ireland Squirrel and Pine Marten Survey.

Scorpion venom

Dr Michel Dugon (School of Natural Sciences) joined Ireland AM @1.19.35 to discuss a new study that has identified the environmental factors that determine where the world’s most dangerous scorpion species thrive.

Animal time perception

A new international study co-led by Dr Kevin Healy (School of Natural Sciences) and colleagues in Trinity College Dublin, has revealed that animals experience time at different speeds, with fast-living species processing visual information far more quickly than slow-moving ones. Analysing 237 species, the researchers found 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. More from Phys.org, Earth.com, Science Magazine, My Science, and World Today News.

Congratulations

Dr. Stanley Chid Iheanacho, who has been awarded the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025 for the project “Modelling climate impact and moulting-failure syndrome in the European lobster (Homarus gammarus) and mitigation strategies.” Climate warming and other stressors can disrupt successful lobster moulting, a fundamental biological process in the development of many invertebrates. Moulting failure can threaten the animal’s survival, have consequences in wild stocks, fisheries, and aquaculture. This project will investigate how environmental stressors, such as elevated temperature, affect moulting from biomechanics to gene regulatory pathways, while testing nutritional interventions to enhance resilience and moulting success.

Diploma in Apiculture.

On Saturday, 28^th September, second year adult learners on the Diploma in Apiculture gathered on campus for the workshop on "Honey, Best Practice". This workshop ensures that students meet all the criteria required to sell honey of the highest quality. This is part of a practical module (ZO 1205, Honey Bee Products) which complements the more academic modules in second year (ZO 1204, honey bee genetics and ZO 1202, honey bee health) . We began with a lecture by Sinead Mulcahy (DAFM) on how beekeepers must register as food business operators (FBOs) and what to expect when an inspector visits their premises to check their operation meets EU regulations. In the afternoon students (1) measured the moisture content of their own honey, which must be under 18% in order to prevent fermentation and spoilage; (2) measured the HMF (hydroxymethylfurfural) content of their own honey : this is a chemical marker of quality assurance, that builds up in old and/or overheated honey. Finally, different methods of liquefying honey under controlled conditions, were looked explored. Active assessment ensured that learning outcomes were met and instant feedback could be provided. Students then completed an online quiz . Free native trees were provided by the Tree Council of Ireland in advance of National Tree Week (www.nationaltreeweek.ie). Photo here.

Past Stories

26th Feb 2026

New Article Improvising Climate Conversations Published

New JCOM paper explores how the improv show We Built This City on Rock and Coal helped audiences engage with climate change in creative, emotional ways. By combining surveys with in‑the‑moment observations, the team captured how people connected with the themes. One standout feature is a playful data visualisation of what audiences appreciate about the outdoors, explaining the giant bird and plenty of water! Read the full paper here: https://lnkd.in/drCaG-VZ

New Article on Global Scorpionism Published

Dr. Michel Dugon of the University of Galway’s Venom Systems Lab has published a new article in The Conversation exploring global scorpionism hotspots and the significant risks scorpion stings pose to children. The piece is based on the team’s latest research and highlights the need for greater awareness and improved monitoring in high‑risk regions.

Read the full article here:
https://theconversation.com/scorpions-can-pose-a-deadly-threat-to-children-were-identifying-the-global-hotspots-276340

Scorpion hotspots

An international team of scientists, led by Dr Michel Dugon (School of Natural Sciences) and University Ibn Zohr in Morocco, has identified the environmental factors that determine where the world’s most dangerous scorpion species thrive. Using field data from Africa and computer modelling, they found that soil type largely dictates scorpion habitats, while temperature, both average and seasonal ranges, play a key role for some species. These findings could help predict hotspots for scorpion stings in tropical regions worldwide. More from Phys.org, BioEngineer, Irish Mirror, Yahoo News US, Science Magazine, Global News, Nautilus and Scitech Daily.

Protecting Ireland’s Hedgehogs

Hedgehog Conservation Ireland, a new nationwide strategy to protect Ireland’s hedgehogs, has been launched by researchers, conservationists and communities. Led by Elaine O’Riordan (School of Natural Sciences and Ryan Institute), with external partners Dr Amy Haigh, Dr Sophie Lund Rasmussen and Alan Bell, the initiative brings together researchers, wildlife rescuers and community supporters to halt population decline and help the species thrive. Elaine O’Riordan joined Radio 1’s Morning Ireland to explain more about the initiative, or find out more from The Journal and RTÉ News

PhD Researcher Attends RIA Nobel Laureate Masterclass

Astronomy PhD researcher Deirdre Ní Chonchubhair represented the University of Galway at the Royal Irish Academy’s Nobel Laureate Masterclass in Dublin, held in honour of the late Professor Denis O’Sullivan. Supervised by Dr Aaron Golden, Deirdre joined early‑career researchers from across Ireland for a day of advanced discussion, mentorship and engagement with leading scientific experts.

Photos and the RIA news feature are available here:
🔗 https://www.ria.ie/2026/02/19/royal-irish-academy-honours-late-professor-denis-osullivan-with-nobel-laureate-masterclass/

Comenius University Visits Galway for ENLIGHT+ SPARK

Dr John Murray welcomed students and staff from Comenius University Bratislava to the University of Galway as part of the ENLIGHT+ SPARK project. Over two days, visitors explored campus, toured CELT’s teaching facilities, and enjoyed a guided visit to the Geology Museum — including a look at a Neanderthal skull. We look forward to seeing the next steps from this vibrant student‑led collaboration. Image here.

12th Feb 2026

Cunningham College Award

2025 Earth and Ocean Sciences graduate Andrew Rynne was presented with the Cunningham College Award at a recent ceremony hosted by Geological Survey Ireland in Dublin. Andrew’s final year project (Mineral Exploration and evaluation of a layered mafic intrusion in NW Connemara) was one of three winning projects from across the Irish university sector. Members of the Cunningham family were present for the awards and Director of GSI, Koen Verbruggen, presented the awards. Andrew graduated with a first-class BSc in EOS in September and was also presented with the William King Medal for his contribution, engagement and support of his classmates. He was hired by DRM Consulting Engineers (geotechnical engineering company) immediately after he finished his degree and he’s working with the company in their Edinburgh offices. Dr Jake Ciborowski is also on something of a roll: this is the second year in a row one of his students has won a Cunningham College Award. Photos here and here.

Annual Tyndall Lecture

The Irish Institute of Physics Tyndall Lecture and Physics Tour took place on Friday at the University of Galway exploring crystals, quantum physics, and the science behind quantum computers. 🧪💡💻 A fantastic audience of around 300 enthusiastic students from local schools filled the lecture theatre, brilliant energy, participation and a real buzz for science! 🙌
Huge thanks to our guest speaker Dr Felix Flicker, University of Bristol for bringing complex ideas to life with clarity, curiosity, and a touch of wonder. 🌟 A big thank you to the Physics Technical Staff, Tour guides & speakers and the organising committee for inspiring the next generation of scientists and innovators! 🔬🚀 See Photos here, here and here.

Institute of Physics Spring Conference

The IOP Spring Conference registration and abstract submission deadline has been extended to Friday, February 13. The Conference will feature keynote speakers Prof Mark Thomson, CEO of CERN, and Prof Ronan McNulty, University College Dublin, invited talks, a panel discussion, the Rosse Medal Science Communication Competition, and a conference dinner on the Friday. The conference is ticketed and open to all members of the physics community and further afield. Bring a plus-one and register at https://iop.eventsair.com/sw2026/

Women in Photonics: Ireland & UK Lecture Series.

Please join us for the first session of the series hosted by Dr. Emanuele Pelucchi, Tyndall, Ireland, with a special guest lecture by Dr. Jaya Sagar from the University of Bristol. When: @11am Wednesday, February 11^thWhere: Hybrid, in-person B0.17 and online- Teams Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/33025517530110?p=jNJFowSGViAl4qD2pf Meeting ID: 330 255 175 301 10 Passcode: S5hN6pN3 Title : Engineering Quantum Key Distribution Transmitters for a Global Secure Network

Our Aquatic Environment: Conservation and Restoration Coreference

Thursday 12 February 2026 from 10:30am to 3:30pm.

Ulster University Belfast Campus, York Street, Belfast, BT15 1ED. Book your ticket here.

Tickets for the public lecture can be booked directly on the Northern Ireland Science Festival website.

22^nd Annual Marine Biological Postgraduate Conference

Takes place in Newcastle University 15^th – 17^th April Register Here.

28th Jan 2026

International Council for Exploration of the Sea

Congratulations to Dr Anne-Marie Power on her new appointment as Chair of the Working Group on Cephalopod Fisheries and Life History (WGCEPH). This is an amazing achievement and a testament to her expertise and leadership in the field.

The 2026 All-Ireland Squirrel and Pine Marten Survey is inviting the public to become Citizen Scientists and help track red and grey squirrels and pine martens across Ireland. Led by Dr Colin Lawton and researchers in the School of Natural Sciences, Ulster Wildlife and the Vincent Wildlife Trust, the year-long initiative will map changing distributions of these iconic woodland mammals. More from RTÉ News, RTÉ Radio 1’s News at One, Newstalk Breakfast @13.18, Agriland, Irish Independent, Galway Bay FM’s Galway Talks @101.33. Sightings of all three mammals can be recorded at www.biodiversityireland.ie.

The PEACE-Air Project Launch marked a key milestone in advancing cross‑border cooperation to improve air quality and public health across the region.
The official launch event brought together stakeholders committed to strengthening evidence, collaboration, and action on cleaner air.
For those who couldn’t attend, a video recap captures the highlights and momentum of the day. Dr Liz Coleman, an air‑pollution specialist in SNS, continues to advance community‑focused air‑quality research that complements initiatives like PEACE‑Air.
Her work helps deepen understanding of pollution impacts and supports the shared goal of healthier, more resilient communities. [galwaycult…company.ie]

Institute of Physics Tyndall lecture

The annual Institute of Physics Tyndall lecture will take place in the Kirwan Theatre on Friday 6 February 2026.

Dr. Felix Flicker from the University of Bristol will deliver the lecture “How to Grow a Quantum Computer” to second level students.

15th Dec 2025

Big Congratulations to Emmanuel Chevassus who did an excellent job defending his thesis entitled “Disentangling Source, Biogeochemical, and Transport Influences on Marine Aerosol Properties via Long-Term Observations in the North-East Atlantic” The PhD viva examination was chaired by Prof. Martin Leahy with external examiner Prof. Sally Ng, Love Family Professor at Georgia Institute of Technology and Editor-in-Chief, ACS ES&T Air and internal examiner Dr. Liz Coleman, SNS. Congratulations also to supervisor, Prof. Jurgita Ovadnevaite. Photo here.

What Physics can tell us about outer space and medical science.

There's more in common between stars and the clinic than you might think. See article in Cois Coiribe, Dr Aaron Golden, Director of the Centre for Astronomy and Professor in Interdisciplinary Physics at the School of Natural Sciences, University of Galway explains.

Events

The annual Institute of Physics Ireland Spring Conference will take place at the Tower Hotel, Waterford on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 February 2026.

The conference will shine a light on CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research. With Ireland becoming an associate member of CERN, the nation is poised to assume a significant role in this world-leading research project. The conference will include the Rosse Medal Science Communication Competition, invited talks, a panel discussion, networking opportunities, and an evening dinner on the Friday. It is ticketed and open to all members of the physics community and further afield.

For more details and to register your interest visit: https://iop.eventsair.com/sw2026/

Please note registrations are limited. Registration deadline: Friday 6 February.

Rosse Medal Abstract submission deadline: Sunday 8 February.

8th Dec 2025

Professor Matt Redman Appointed Head of School of Natural Sciences

We are delighted to announce that Professor Matt Redman has been confirmed as Head of the School of Natural Sciences for a full four-year term. This appointment, effective immediately and back dated to October 1st, follows his interim leadership of the School.

We extend our sincere thanks to Professor Grace McCormack for her dedication over the past four years. Her contributions have left a strong foundation for Matt to build upon as he leads the School into its next chapter. Congratulations, Matt, and thank you, Grace!

Spotlight on the Research & Innovation Committee

We are delighted to welcome Dr Liam Morrison as Director of the Research & Innovation Committee, a group central to advancing the school’s research excellence and innovative initiatives. Our thanks to Prof Alan Ryder for his valuable contributions, and a warm welcome to Dr Richard Lalor, joining as Postdoctoral Research Staff representative.

We also acknowledge and appreciate all members, past and present, whose expertise drives this vital work for the School: Karen Bacon, Adam Collins, Anthony Grehan, Jurgita Ovadnevaite, Ayesha Sharif, Christina Tadiri, Darius Ceburnis, and Eve Daly.

24th Nov 2025

Diploma in Scientific Studies (Apiculture)

Dr Helen Mooney attended the graduation ceremony with the adult learners who graduated with a Diploma in Scientific Studies (Apiculture) on Saturday, November 22nd. They had the pleasure of gathering for a group photograph with the new president, Prof David Burns. The students are competent beekeepers from all corners of Ireland, North and South, with one student from the UK. Many of these students are great ambassadors for adult learning at the University of Galway and now teach at local level. They are all members of various Irish Beekeeping organisations including the Native Irish Honey Bee Society which was set up in 2012 to protect our native dark European bee, Apis mellifera. See image here.

Diploma in Gemmology Graduation.

The University of Galway proudly celebrated the graduation of the Diploma in Gemmology Class of 2023–2025 last Saturday, with the sun shining on a day full of achievement. Led by the passionate Dr. Alex Costanzo, this unique programme combines hands-on practicals, expert guest lectures, and exciting field trips to destinations like London and Lisbon. Graduates praised the course for its engaging content, exceptional facilities, and supportive learning environment, highlighting how it balanced academic rigor with flexibility for busy professionals. Many spoke of lasting friendships and newfound expertise in the fascinating world of gemstones—proof that this diploma truly sparkles! See Images here and here.

Congratulations - We Built This City on Rock and Coal finalist for Falling Walls Engage

The climate engagement project We Built This City on Rock and Coal, led by Dr Jessamyn Fairfield, was a finalist for this year’s Falling Walls Engage award at the Falling Walls Science Summit in Berlin. The 15 finalists were selected from over 230 applications worldwide. We Built This City was also recently presented at the Theatre About Science conference, and the PACESETTERS Polyclinic of Creative Practice. Read more: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7394042717992873984/

The Songs of Travel (SOT) Research Report is here!

A multidisciplinary team of researchers at the University of Galway including Dr Liz Coleman from Physics partnered with SOT to develop our Green Commitments — a set of sustainable production guidelines — and assess their real-world impact. The report showcases the positive outcomes of these commitments and provides actionable recommendations for embedding sustainability into future festival planning. Read the full report: https://lnkd.in/es8JmbwG

New Papers

Prof Alan Ryder and team are delighted to announce the publication of our latest paper, “Using Rayleigh-Mie scattered light and polarised multidimensional fluorescence emission in combination for protein quantification in a model clarified bioreactor harvest” in Analytica Chimica Acta (Elsevier). This work, led by Dr Bernard Boateng as part of his PhD in the Nanoscale Biophotonics Laboratory, explores innovative methods for monitoring bioprocesses and improving protein therapeutic production. By combining light scatter and polarized fluorescence, the study demonstrates a robust approach to measuring protein concentration in clarified bioreactor samples. The research was supported by Science Foundation Ireland and co-funded under the European Regional Development Fund (Grant 14/IA/2282). Special thanks to HORIBA NJ for providing the Aqualog spectrometer.
Read the full paper here: https://lnkd.in/e-HQwxJr.

12th Nov 2025

Galway Science Person of the Year

Congratulations to Dr Michel M. Dugon, (Zoology), founder of the Venom Lab, and creator of The Bug Doctor series, who has been named Galway Science Person of the Year! For over 14 years, Dr Dugon has inspired children and students through live workshops on bugs, spiders, and snakes, alongside his groundbreaking research.

NatureWorks Conference Champions Greener Futures

The NatureWorks conference at University of Galway brought together researchers, community leaders, and nature advocates to explore pathways to sustainability. The day began with a grounding session in the Pocket Forest led by Dr Caitriona Carlin and Fiona Roche. Keynote speaker Prof. Cecil Konijnendijk introduced his impactful 3-30-300 urban greening formula. Chaired by Dr Alma Clavin and Dr Sinead Sheehan, lightning talks featured Dr Nora Ward, Dr Terry Morley, Dr Liam Morrison, Dr Gesche Kindermann, Dr Mary Jo Lavelle, and Dr Caitriona Carlin. A lively panel chaired by Catherine Cleary included Paula Kearney, Galway City Biodiversity Officer, highlighting youth engagement with nature. Co-created by Pocket Forests CLG and the Ryan Institute, the event was generously supported by the Lifes2good Foundation.

New EPA-Funded Research on Ozone Pollution in Ireland

A new study, Understanding Ozone Levels in Ireland, led by Liz Coleman and her team including Nikhil Korhale (University of Galway), is now live on the EPA website. The research reveals that rural and coastal areas face higher ozone levels than urban zones, with urban ozone on the rise due to falling NOₓ emissions. Methane is identified as the key precursor, and the study urges Ireland to fully commit to the Global Methane Pledge. Read more: https://lnkd.in/ecya5GSE

27th Oct 2025

University of Galway Honoured at Áras an Uachtaráin
It was a special week as University of Galway President, Professor David Burn, met with President Michael D. Higgins during a courtesy visit. Astrophysics researchers, who discovered a new planet earlier this year, were also honoured guests at the Áras’s final Afternoon Tea Reception. The visit celebrated Irish scientific achievement and strengthened academic ties.
📷 Link Image 2: Pictured (l-r) are Richelle van Capelleveen (Leiden University), Professor Frances Fahy (Director, Ryan Institute), Jake Byrne and Dan McLachlan (Astrophysics PhD students), Sabina and President Michael D. Higgins, Dr Christian Ginski (Astrophysics), Chloe Lawlor (Astrophysics PhD student), John Caulfield (President’s Office) and Dr Ann Ryan (College of Science and Engineering).

16th Oct 2025

Showcasing Irish Marine Restoration on the Global Stage: Dr. Anthony Grehan of the University of Galway recently participated in the 11th World Meeting of the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER2025) in Denver. He presented a case study focused on marine restoration in Ireland during a dedicated session chaired by Sahar Stevenson-Jones of SER-Europe. His contribution highlighted Ireland’s unique restoration challenges and solutions, drawing international attention to local efforts. The session formed part of a broader global dialogue on ecosystem restoration, aligning with the launch of the REVIVE initiative and the EU Nature Restoration Regulation.

Celebrating 50 Years of Marine Innovation in Carna: This week, the University of Galway marked the 50th anniversary of its Carna Research Station with a special event, Todhchaí Ghorm – Blue Future. The two-day celebration featured a dynamic programme of innovation showcases, workshops, and networking sessions. The event honoured five decades of excellence in marine research and looked ahead to the future of Ireland’s marine bioeconomy. It brought together marine entrepreneurs, researchers, fishers, community members, and policymakers to shape a shared vision for sustainable marine development. Coverage of the event is available from Tuairisc.ie, Raidió na Gaeltachta’s Iris Aniar, and Irish Tech News.

10th Oct 2025

Science stories: Dr Jessamyn Fairfield (School of Natural Sciences) joined Newstalk’s Futureproof with Jonathan McCrea to discuss the latest science stories making the news this week.

3rd Oct 2025

A seminal new review paper on the North Atlantic deep-sea biodiversity has been published in Deep-sea Research Part I journal. This paper originates from the UN Ocean Decade endorsed Challenger 150 programme's North Atlantic Ocean working group and is led by Prof Louise Allcock of University of Galway's Ryan Institute in Ireland. Read more here.

Restoring Seas & Shaping Change

In September, NCI staff took part in a dynamic two-day marine restoration training with CLIMAREST and SER Europe. A field trip to Merrion Strand showcased the challenges of seagrass restoration in a shifting coastal landscape.
Workshops led by Diana Pound (Dialogue Matters) explored inclusive stakeholder engagement, highlighting the power of storytelling and social norms in driving change.
Thanks to Sahar Stevenson-Jones, Dr Liam Morrison, and Dr Juan Lugilde Yáñez for their excellent coordination and support. Read more here.

11th Sept 2025

Planet in Formation Discovered by Physics Team

A newly forming planet, WISPIT 2b, has been discovered by an international team co-led by researchers from the School of Natural Sciences. Estimated to be just 5 million years old, this gas giant is orbiting a young Sun-like star and offers rare insight into early planetary formation. The study, involving Leiden University, University of Galway, and University of Arizona, was co-authored by Dr Christian Ginski and Physics graduate students Chloe Lawlor, Jake Byrne, and Dan McLachlan. 📷 View the stunning image from the European Southern Observatory here.
🎥 Watch short videos about the discovery here and here.
📰 Coverage includes RTÉ, USA Today, Space.com, BBC Sky at Night, and more.