April

Two University of Galway academics have been awarded the 2025 ENLIGHT Impact ambassador award for their research endeavours. Dr Pádraig MacNeela and Dr Muriel Grenon have been honoured as part of the University’s membership of the ENLIGHT European university alliance involving 10 research intensive universities. The ENLIGHT Impact Ambassador Awards were bestowed at the ENLIGHT Impact Conference which took place at the University of Groningen. Dr MacNeela and Dr Grenon were recognised for their impactful projects, highlighting the significant positive change their research brings to society and their endeavours in planning for and achieving impact.  Dr MacNeela and the team involved the Active* Consent programme were recognised for their work on consent, sexual violence and harassment. Dr Muriel Grenon and team were recognised for their work on widening participation in STEM with science outreach. Alex Metcalfe, Vice-President for International, University of Galway, said: “These ENLIGHT Impact Awards are a well-earned recognition of the meaningful societal change being driven by the research of Dr Pádraig MacNeela and Dr Muriel Grenon. Their work on consent education and widening participation in STEM exemplifies how thoughtful, committed research can make a difference in people’s lives. Their success reflects the strength of our research community and the University’s commitment to impact across Europe and beyond.” University of Galway had three nominations, including one for Dr Jessamyn Fairfield and her team with their research-led project ‘We Built this City on Rock & Coal’. ENLIGHT includes University of Galway; Comenius University, Bratislava (Slovakia); University of Groningen (Netherlands); University of Bern (Switzerland); University of Bordeaux (France); Ghent University (Belgium); University of Tartu (Estonia); University of Gottingen (Germany); University of the Basque Country (Spain); and Uppsala University (Sweden). The project is supported by the Government and the European Commission. The aim is for the alliance to develop as a platform for the creation of a new type of European university campus where students and staff have increased opportunities for international study, training, teaching, research and sharing of services. ENLIGHT aims to collaboratively transform higher education, addressing societal challenges and promoting equitable quality of life, sustainability and external engagement with the communities of the partner universities. Ends

University of Galway is inviting the public to contribute to a new initiative aimed at exploring important health-related questions and helping shape the future of health research. In celebration of Citizen Science Month, The People’s Review project allows individuals to become citizen scientists, suggesting important health questions, working alongside researchers, and contributing to a systematic review. Systematic reviews gathers all available research on a topic to provide a clear and accurate understanding of what does and does not work in health treatments. These reviews combine findings from multiple studies to ensure healthcare decisions are based on trustworthy evidence and are used by healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and the public to make informed health choices. Éle Quinn, The People's Review Project Lead from the University’s School of Health Sciences, said: “We are so excited to open up the world of health research to the wider public with The People's Review. We're living in a time where it's harder than ever to know what health information we can trust. That’s where systematic reviews come in — they help cut through the noise by bringing together all the available evidence about health treatments. The People's Review invites everyone to get involved in the process, opening the doors to research in a way that's accessible, inclusive, and even a little bit fun! It's a unique opportunity for the public to have their say, enjoy science, and contribute to a real-life systematic review."   The People's Review is being led by a diverse team within Evidence Synthesis Ireland in University of Galway’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences. The team also includes an International Steering Group hailing from Brazil to Bangladesh and the UK to Canada with various expertise including public partners, experts in systematic reviews, and health communicators.   Derek Stewart, Honorary Professor at University of Galway, Public Partner and member of The People's Review Steering Group, said: “The People’s Review is perhaps the first attempt ever to openly invite the public to identify a health topic for a research review. It shows how research is constantly trying to become more open and transparent. Secondly, it offers a practical opportunity to find out and learn about the different stages and parts of a health research review. It is also designed to be exploratory, interesting and enjoyable, so even if you know nothing about this world, you will be made most welcome by the whole team which includes researchers, reviewers, patients and members of the public. We look forward to learning together.”   Dr Sinéad Hynes  from the School of Health Sciences said: “The power of systematic reviews is extraordinary. Especially in a world where we are bombarded with information 24/7. Finding reliable sources to help make choices, especially health choices is more difficult than ever. The People's Review is an exciting opportunity opening up the world of health research to the wider public in a unique, and even a fun way! People from around the world can suggest a question about health that they want to find the answer to. The public will then vote on the People’s favourite question that we will answer through a systematic review.”   To learn more about The People's Review visit www.thepeoplesreview.ie or watch a video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XY7wdD3yQR0. The team welcome any questions via email at thepeoplesreview@universityofgalway.ie, or follow on Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, Linkedin, and X.   Ends

A research team at University of Galway has revealed that Storm Éowyn generated the highest storm surges ever recorded at key locations on Ireland’s western seaboard. By analysing sea level information from 47 datasets provided by the Irish National Tide Gauge Network and the Office of Public Works, the team based at the University’s School of Engineering have highlighted the unprecedented power of the storm’s surge – more than 2.5 metres above the normal predicted tidal water level. Storm Éowyn, one of the most powerful storms to hit Ireland in recent years, also saw record-breaking winds. The highest gust recorded was 184 km/h, with the highest 10-minute wind speed reaching 142 km/h at Mace Head Atmospheric Research Station in County Galway. Despite the severity of Storm Éowyn in other ways and the devastation wrought by hurricane force winds and lasting damage to power and water supplies, the timing of the tides during storm landfall meant little to no flooding impacts. The research team highlighted data from three coastal locations during Storm Éowyn - Galway Port, Limerick Docks and Shannon Airport. At Galway Port, the storm surge peaked at 2.60 meters above the normal predicted astronomical tide, the highest ever recorded at this station since its operation began in 2007 At Limerick Docks the highest surge along the western coastline was recorded - reaching 2.99 meters above tidal level At Shannon Airport, the tidal gauge recorded surge of 2.70 meters. Had these surges occurred a week earlier during the high water spring tide, the water levels would have been much higher, with data predicting that the water level at Galway Port would have reached 4.96m, Limerick Dock at 5.85m, and Shannon Airport at 5.43m above mean sea level, inundating the areas. Dr Indiana Olbert, School of Engineering at University of Galway’s College of Science and Engineering, said: “Extensive research suggest that flooding has increased in frequency and severity in recent decades around the world and this is attributed to climate change. Our analysis of the drivers of flooding in Ireland show that the anthropogenic climate change – that's the changes related to human activity - will drive more extreme rainfall and generate more intense flooding. Such changes are likely to continue with further warming. In future we will witness more extreme weather events that will result in devastating floods. “Our analysis also shows that a rise in mean sea level rise will significantly increase the risk of coastal flooding in the future. The data we have recovered from the hours around Storm Éowyn shows just how narrowly tens of thousands of people avoided tidal inundation and threats to cities, towns and coastal communities. It is hard to imagine how narrowly we avoided unprecedented storm surge flooding and an inundation, in particular in towns and cities.”                               Dr Niall Madden, Mathematical and Statistical Sciences at University of Galway, said: “In spite of how devastating Storm Éowyn was, in an odd way, we were incredibly lucky. The worst of the storm surge coincided with a low and ebbing tide. Had it hit just a few hours earlier, on a full or flooding tide, Galway could have been dealing with a double disaster of record high winds and record high flooding.” Ends

University of Galway has been successful in its bids to host a number of major international conferences and events in next two years, reinforcing its position as a global hub for academic excellence, collaboration and cultural exchange.    The prestigious International Association for Media and Communication Research Meeting will be hosted by the University in 2026, with 1,500 delegates expected to be welcomed to the Galway region, generating an estimated €2.8 million for the local economy.     In 2027, the University will host the Alliance of Digital Humanities Organisations Annual Meeting, which attracts more than 750 attendees and is forecast to contribute €1.4 million to the local economy.    A further 3,000 visitors will descend on the Galway region in August 2027 when the World Association of Marching Showbands Event takes place. The successful bid to host the event was made in partnership with Galway City Council and the Irish travel agency Celtic Horizons.    Professor Peter McHugh, Interim President of University of Galway, said: “By successfully bidding for events and conferences, the University helps with economic development of our region. These events also offer invaluable opportunities for academic collaboration, industry networking and cultural exchange as well as showcasing Galway as a world-class conference and event destination. This underscores our ambition to be a leader in research, education, innovation and cultural engagement on the international stage, while also delivering tangible benefits to the Galway region.”    Paul Mockler, Head of Commercial Development at Fáilte Ireland, said: “We are delighted to see such diverse business events confirmed for Galway, shining a spotlight on the attractiveness of Galway as a place to invest, visit and live. Working with our passionate Conference Ambassadors, International Association Conferences have the potential to drive significant economic impacts for our country as well as supporting wider government policies in the development of positive social impacts in a sustainable manner. By working in partnership with University of Galway and Galway Convention Bureau to attract business events to the West, Fáilte Ireland can support the sustainable development of Galway while maximising the environmental, societal and economic contribution of tourism to Ireland.”    Patricia Walsh, Head of Conference Services at the University of Galway, highlighted the institution’s ability to attract prestigious gatherings: “Our success in securing these major events is a reflection of the strong connections and leadership of our academic colleagues, whose international networks are instrumental in bringing these conferences to Galway. Equally significant is the robust support ecosystem at University of Galway and the wider region. This includes the University’s dedicated Conference and Events team, world-class facilities, and the support of Galway Convention Bureau, Galway City Council and Fáilte Ireland. We look forward to collaborating with partners across the city and beyond to create exceptional experiences for delegates and visitors alike.”    These successful submissions are just a number of international events that University of Galway is actively bidding to host in the coming years, reinforcing its strategic vision to be a key player in global academic and cultural exchanges.      Ends 

Two University of Galway students took home top awards at the GradIreland Undergraduate of the Year Awards 2025. The awards recognise and celebrate Ireland’s most outstanding undergraduate students. This year, 16 University of Galway students were shortlisted for the finals. Second year Electronic and Computer Engineering student Sarah Jane Hughes from Redgap, Co Louth was presented with the Innovation Undergraduate of the Year Award, sponsored by Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard. A Stanford University Innovation Fellow and finalist for the Siemens Innovative Student Engineer of the Year Award, Sarah Jane Hughes developed AscertPro, an app revolutionising construction site inspections. Recognised with University of Galway’s IdeasLab President’s Award for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Sarah Jane is a dynamic leader committed to solving real-world challenges through innovation, collaboration, and sustainable solutions. Passionate about leveraging technology for impact, she has experience in engineering, consulting, and digital marketing and as part of the award she will have the opportunity to earn a Professional Diploma in Digital Marketing from the Digital Marketing Institute. Anna Connors, a fourth year Energy Systems Engineering student, received the Renewable Energy Undergraduate of the Year Award, sponsored by Bord Na Móna, earning a place on the Graduate Programme within renewable energy, personal and professional development. Originally from Ballinalee, Co. Longford, Anna completed an academic work placement at engineering consultancy company Buro Happold in Leeds, UK. In addition to her studies, Anna is passionate about sustainability, the environment and finding carbon neutral energy solutions for the current climate crisis. Marie Laffey, Head of the Career Development Centre at the University, said: “University of Galway is committed to fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability within our university community, and it’s fantastic to see our students leading the way. The prestigious GradIreland Undergraduate of the Year awards are a benchmark of excellence and are highly valued by employers. We are delighted to celebrate Sarah Jane’s and Anna’s success and look forward to seeing the positive difference they will make in their future careers.” Ends

University of Galway is celebrating a standout performance at the 2025 National Student Media Awards with students securing three major awards. The winners were led by first-year Bachelor of Arts Journalism student Vladyslav Piatin-Ponomarenko who secured Film Documentary of the Year for his personal and emotional short documentary, Imagine War – 75 Days of Survival in Mariupol, which documents his escape from Mariupol at the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Students secured two other awards: Emma Van Oosterhout, a fourth-year BA Global Media student, was named “Collaborative Journalist of the Year”, and Áine Ní Shíocháin, a BA Cumarsáid student, received an award for excellence in Irish-language journalism. Tom Felle, Associate Professor of Journalism at University of Galway, said: “We are immensely proud of our students' achievements and these awards are a testament to their talent, resilience, and dedication. I would also like to acknowledge my colleagues across the Journalism and Media team for their hard work and support of our students throughout the year.” University of Galway students were shortlisted for eight awards in total, including a nomination for its hyperlocal news site, Galway Pulse, in the “News Site of the Year” category. Ends

University of Galway has presented Special Irish Recognition Awards to students who achieved a distinction in Higher Level Irish in their Junior Cycle examination. More than 160 students from 46 schools from Donegal, Clare, Mayo, Leitrim, Sligo, Roscommon and Galway attended the awards event on campus to recognise and celebrate their achievements. These students are among the 3.3% of students across the country who achieved a distinction in the Higher Level T2 Irish paper, or the 3.8% of students who achieved a distinction in the Higher Level T1 paper in the 2024 Junior Cycle examinations by scoring between 90% and 100%. University of Galway Interim President Professor Peter McHugh said: “We are very proud of the Irish language here in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe and we are delighted to welcome these exceptional students, who achieved outstanding results in their Irish Junior Cycle examinations last year, here today to present them with these Special Irish Recognition Awards. It is our privilege to give these students the praise and recognition they deserve, and to celebrate their achievements with them at this special event. I would also like to acknowledge the dedication, encouragement and support of their families, teachers, and principals, both at home and in the classroom.”   The importance of thriving Irish-speaking communities in the Gaeltacht and beyond is recognised in University of Galway’s first Irish language strategy, A Strategy for the Irish Language 2021-2025, which was launched in July 2021. These communities were given due recognition each year over the past three years at the Junior Cycle awards event with the University fulfilling its role in leading higher education in the Irish language and showing Irish speakers respect, as is set out in the Strategy. Ends            

Tá Gradaim Aitheantais bronnta ag Ollscoil na Gaillimhe ar scoláirí ar éirigh leo pas le gradam a bhaint amach i scrúduithe ardleibhéil Gaeilge na Sraithe Sóisearaí D’fhreastail breis agus 160 scoláire as 46 scoil i gCo. Dhún na nGall, Co. an Chláir, Co. Mhaigh Eo, Co. Liatroma, Co. Shligigh, Co. Ros Comáin agus Co. na Gaillimhe ar ócáid speisialta a reáchtáladh ar champas na hOllscoile chun ceiliúradh a dhéanamh ar na héachtaí a bhain na scoláirí meánscoile seo amach.  Áirítear na scoláirí seo i measc an 3.3% de scoláirí na tíre ar éirigh leo pas le gradam a bhaint amach sa pháipéar ardleibhéil T2 Gaeilge go náisiúnta, nó an 3.8% de na scoláirí a bhain pas le gradam amach sa pháipéar ardleibhéil T1 Gaeilge sa tSraith Shóisearach in 2024, agus idir 90% agus 100% bainte amach acu.             Dúirt Uachtarán Eatramhach Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, an tOllamh Peter McHugh: “Tá muid an-bhródúil as an nGaeilge anseo in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe agus tá an-áthas orainn fáilte a chur roimh na scoláirí eisceachtúla seo, a bhain sárthorthaí amach sna scrúduithe Gaeilge sa tSraith Shóisearach anuraidh, agus na gradaim seo a bhronnadh orthu inniu.  Is údar bróid dúinne é go bhfuil ar ár gcumas an moladh agus an t-aitheantas atá tuillte acu a thabhairt dóibh, agus a gcuid éachtaí a cheiliúradh ag an ócáid speisialta seo.  Ba mhaith liom aitheantas a thabhairt dá dtuismitheoirí, múinteoirí agus príomhoidí freisin agus buíochas a ghlacadh leo as an méid tacaíochta agus spreagadh a thugann siad do na scoláirí sa mbaile agus sna seomraí ranga.”     Aithnítear an tábhacht a bhaineann lena chinntiú go mbeidh pobail bhisiúla Ghaeilge sa Ghaeltacht agus taobh amuigh den Ghaeltacht i gcéad straitéis Ghaeilge na hOllscoile, Straitéis na Gaeilge 2021-2025, a seoladh i mí Iúil 2021.  Tugadh aitheantas do na pobail sin ag an ócáid cheiliúrtha seo trí bliana as a chéile agus an Ollscoil ag déanamh cúraim don ról a chuir sí roimpi sa Straitéis, ó thaobh ceannasaíocht a thabhairt don ardoideachas i nGaeilge agus meas a léiriú ar lucht labhartha na Gaeilge. Críoch

Tá buaiteoirí Ghradaim Alumni 2025 fógartha ag Ollscoil na Gaillimhe. Tá ochtar le haitheantas a fháil ag oíche mhór na ngradam Dé hAoine, an 23 Bealtaine 2025. Déanann Gradaim Alumni ceiliúradh ar dhaoine eisceachtúla as 133,000 alumnus na hOllscoile trí aitheantas a thabhairt dá n-éachtaí suntasacha i réimsí éagsúla, idir áitiúil, náisiúnta agus idirnáisiúnta.   Seo a leanas na daoine a mbronnfaidh Ollscoil na Gaillimhe gradam alumni orthu in 2025:   Gradam Alumni do na Dána, an Litríocht agus an Léann Ceilteach Deirdre Sullivan, úrscéalaí a bhfuil gradaim buaite aici Gradam Alumni don Ghnó agus an Tráchtáil - urraithe ag Banc na hÉireann  Anne O’Riordan, Iar-Stiúrthóir an Ghrúpa Dhigitigh ag Jardine Matheson Limited Gradam Alumni don Ghaeilge Rónán Ó Domhnaill, An Coimisinéir um Fhorbairt na Meán, Coimisiún na Meán Gradam Alumni don Dlí, an Beartas Poiblí agus an tSochaí - urraithe ag RDJ Geoffrey Shannon, Breitheamh na Cúirte Cuarda Gradam Alumni don Innealtóireacht, an Eolaíocht agus an Teicneolaíocht  An Dr Fiona Grant, Ceannaire na gClár Idirnáisiúnta in Foras na Mara Gradam Alumni don Leigheas, an tAltranas agus na hEolaíochtaí Sláinte - urraithe ag Medtronic  An Dr Elizabeth Whalen, Stiúrthóir Leighis na hOifige Sláinte Poiblí do Stát Nua-Eabhrac Gradam Alumni don Rannpháirtíocht sa Spórt  Kevin Dinneen, Cathaoirleach Rugbaí Tríú Leibhéal agus Bhord Achomharc an IRFU  Gradam Alumni do Cheannairí Nua An Dr Ríona Ní Ghriallais, comhbhunaitheoir ProVerum               Dúirt Uachtarán Eatramhach Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, an tOllamh Peter McHugh: “Is mór an phribhléid é ómós a léiriú d’éachtaí na n-ochtar iontach seo a rinne sárobair ina réimsí féin sa bhaile agus i gcéin. Tá tionchar mór ag gach duine acu ar a mbealach féin agus tá súil agam go mbeidh a gcuid éachtaí ina n-eiseamláir dár mic léinn reatha agus dár gcéimithe. Táim ag tnúth le fáilte a chur rompu ar ais chuig a n-alma mater i mí Bealtaine.”   Bhí an méid seo le rá ag an Ollamh Becky Whay, Uachtarán Ionaid agus Meabhránaí Ollscoil na Gaillimhe: “Is deis iontach iad na Gradaim Alumni agus an oíche mhór ar an gcampas le haitheantas a thabhairt do chéimithe Ollscoil na Gaillimhe agus ár mic léinn reatha a spreagadh trí bhealaí éagsúla a raibh tionchar ag na céimithe ar an domhan a thaispeáint dóibh. Gan buaiteoirí na bliana seo san áireamh fuair 113 duine ó gach cineál cúlra an gradam go dtí seo. Daoine iad seo a raibh lámh againne ina gcuid oideachais agus, a raibh sé de phribhléid againn aitheantas a thabhairt dóibh agus iad a cheiliúradh as a gcuid éachtaí iontacha ó cuireadh tús leis na gradaim sa bhliain 2000.”   Chun ticéad a chur in áirithe téigh chuig https://www.universityofgalway.ie/alumni/alumniawards/ nó déan teagmháil le Colm O’Dwyer ag 091 494310.   Críoch

University of Galway has announced the winners of our 2025 Alumni Awards. Eight recipients are to be recognised at a gala awards night on Friday May 23, 2025. The University’s Alumni Awards celebrate outstanding individuals among the 133,000 alumni, recognising their remarkable accomplishments across various fields on a local, national and international level.   The winners of the 2025 University of Galway Alumni Awards are:   Alumni Award for Arts, Literature and Celtic Studies Deirdre Sullivan, award winning novelist Alumni Award for Business and Commerce - Sponsored by Bank of Ireland Anne O’Riordan, former Group Director of Digital at Jardine Matheson Limited Gradam Alumni don Ghaeilge Rónán Ó Domhnaill, Media Development Commissioner, Coimisiún na Meán Alumni Award for Law, Public Policy and Society – Sponsored by RDJ Geoffrey Shannon, Circuit Court Judge Alumni Award for Engineering, Science and Technology  Dr Fiona Grant, Head of International Programmes at the Marine Institute Alumni Award for Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences – Sponsored by Medtronic Dr Elizabeth Whalen, Medical Director of the Office for Public Health for the State of New York Alumni Award for Contribution to Sport  Kevin Dinneen, Chair of Third Level Rugby and the IRFU Appeals Board  Alumni Award for Emerging Leaders Dr Ríona Ní Ghriallais, co-founder of ProVerum             Professor Peter McHugh, Interim President of University of Galway, said: “It is a privilege to honour the accomplishments of these eight remarkable individuals who have made outstanding contributions in their respective fields at home and abroad. Each one of them are making a great impact in their own way and I hope their achievements serve as an inspiration to our current students and our graduates. I look forward to welcoming them back to their alma mater in May.”   Professor Becky Whay, Interim Deputy President and Registrar at University of Galway, said: “Our Alumni Awards and our awards night on campus are a wonderful opportunity to recognise University of Galway graduates and to inspire our current students by showcasing some of the many different ways their predecessors have made a positive mark on the World. This year’s winners join an impressive roll call of 113 people from all walks of life who we have had the pleasure of helping to educate and, importantly, the pleasure of recognising and celebrating for their outstanding achievements since the awards began in the year 2000.” For online reservations, visit https://www.universityofgalway.ie/alumni/alumniawards/ or contact Colm O’Dwyer at 091 494310. Ends

Two undergraduate medicine students at University of Galway have led a major study examining how cardioprotective glucose-lowering therapies - medications that lower blood sugar and reduce the risk of heart disease in people with diabetes - affect the risk of developing dementia. The research has been published in JAMA Neurology. The new study involved a systematic review and meta-analysis of 26 clinical trials involving more than 160,000 participants. The researchers found that while most glucose-lowering therapies were not significantly associated with a reduction in dementia risk, one class of drugs – known as GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1Ras) was linked to a significant reduction. The study was conducted by medical students Allie Seminer and Alfredi Mulihano, alongside researchers from University of Galway, the HRB Clinical Research Facility Galway and University Hospital Galway. Key Findings: The research analysed data from 26 randomised controlled trials with a total of 164,531 participants. While glucose-lowering therapies as a whole did not significantly reduce dementia risk, GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1Ras) were linked to a 45% lower risk of dementia. The findings provide crucial insights into the potential for diabetes medications to influence long-term brain health. Dr Catriona Reddin, senior author, researcher at the University of Galway and Registrar in Geriatric Medicine at HSE West North West, said: "This research represents a significant contribution to our understanding of how some diabetes medications may impact brain health. Diabetes is a known risk factor for dementia, but whether glucose-lowering therapies can help prevent cognitive decline has remained unclear. Our findings suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonists, in particular, may have a protective effect on brain health.” Professor Martin O'Donnell, Dean of the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at University of Galway and Consultant Stroke Physician with HSE West North-West said: “Given the increasing prevalence of both diabetes and dementia, findings from this study have important public health implications for prevention of dementia. “What makes this study particularly exciting for the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at University of Galway, is that it was led by two of our undergraduate medicine students. We place a strong emphasis on research as a core component of our undergraduate medicine programme, ensuring that students have opportunities to engage in high-impact studies that shape global healthcare.” Allie Seminer, a third year student from New York and co-lead author, said: "Being involved in a study of this scale as an undergraduate has been an incredible experience. What stood out for me was the sense of responsibility - knowing that our work could help shape understanding of a global health issue. It was incredibly motivating to be part of a team working at this level, and it has shown me how research is an essential part of becoming a well-rounded doctor. It highlights how research is not just an add-on to our degree but an essential part of how we learn to advance medical knowledge." Alfredi Mulihano, a third year student from Dundalk and co-lead author, said:  "Being part of this study has completely changed how I see my role as a future doctor. It brought together clinical insight, data analysis, and critical thinking in a way that lectures alone cannot. The experience opened my eyes to the impact we can have beyond the bedside - contributing to knowledge that could change how diseases like dementia are prevented.” The full study in JAMA Neurology is available here. Ends

Minister Noel Grealish today officially launched the British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) Early Career Symposium, at the historic Quadrangle at the University of Galway. This important gathering brings together emerging young scientists, respected industry professionals, and distinguished academic experts to encourage collaboration, innovation, and resilience among early career animal scientists. The symposium highlights the British Society of Animal Science’s commitment to nurturing future leaders in animal science, providing attendees with essential skills, networking opportunities, and insights from established researchers and industry professionals. Minister Noel Grealish, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, said: “I’m delighted to welcome the British Society of Animal Science Early Career Symposium to Ireland. There are many positive benefits that livestock farming can contribute to our economy, society, rural areas and our food system and this symposium helps to ensure the next generation of talent will drive innovation for decades to come." Dr David Kenny, British Society of Animal Science President, commented: “Investing in our early career scientists is crucial for the future of sustainable animal science research. Today's symposium is an exciting opportunity for participants to exchange ideas, build valuable connections, and enhance their professional growth.” Professor Peter McHugh, Interim President of University of Galway, said: "We are delighted to host this event with the British Society of Animal Science, reflecting our dedication to supporting the next generation of scientific talent. Events like today’s symposium greatly enrich our academic community and drive innovation in animal science research. They are pivotal in cultivating fresh thinking and equipping future scientists with the tools and networks they need to tackle the pressing challenges facing the sector.” Dr Sinéad Waters, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences and Ryan Institute, College of Science and Engineering, University of Galway, said: "It has been a pleasure to help bring this exciting event to life as one of the symposium organisers. The energy and enthusiasm of the early career community is inspiring, and today’s programme provides a platform to share knowledge, explore career pathways, and build lasting connections." The British Society of Animal Science Early Career Symposium sets the stage for the upcoming British Society of Animal Science Annual Conference, running from 8th -10th April at the Galway Bay Hotel, where leading international researchers and industry stakeholders will explore the latest developments and future directions in animal science. Ends

University of Galway has hosted a symposium on Delivering Ireland’s National Life Sciences Strategy, in partnership with Medtronic plc.  The focus of the event is to provide a platform for discussion, collaboration and policy recommendations to support delivery of a national Life Sciences Strategy that will provide a cohesive framework to sustain and enhance Ireland's future competitiveness through research, innovation, talent development, entrepreneurship and technology. Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke T.D., delivered the keynote address at the event in the Royal College of Physicians in Dublin. Minister Burke said: “The Life Sciences sector is one of the key drivers of Ireland’s economic success, accounting for over 100,000 jobs and over €130 billion in exports and we are proud to be home to the world’s leading Life Sciences companies. In the new Programme for Government, we have committed to developing a National Strategy for the Life Sciences to ensure this important sector remains competitive, and that we have a coherent and ambitious approach to future opportunities. This morning’s symposium is a great opportunity for stakeholders in this field to connect and look to the future of Ireland’s Life Sciences sector.” Professor Peter McHugh, Interim President of University of Galway, said: “University of Galway is at the forefront of research and innovation, particular in the area of biomedical sciences and engineering, and medical devices, and we are recognised as among the top 30 universities in Europe for spinout value. By hosting this symposium, in partnership with Medtronic, University of Galway is leading the conversation on a call for action to creating Ireland’s National Life Sciences Strategy , recognising the critical role of the higher education sector in enabling the life sciences ecosystem and economic growth.” The symposium Delivering Ireland’s National Life Sciences Strategy brought together government, industry, healthcare and academic leaders, as well as patient advocacy groups, to explore how Ireland can strengthen its position as a global life sciences leader.    University of Galway and Medtronic announced a Signature Innovation Partnership in 2023 to advance medical technology and healthcare innovation. The collaboration combines the University’s research expertise with Medtronic’s leadership in medical devices with the aim of driving progress in healthcare delivery, talent development and global healthcare solutions. University of Galway has established two key research institutes in recent years, as part of a strategic drive for deeper impact through research and innovation. The new Institute for Clinical Trials was launched in May 2023 and the second, the Institute for Health Discovery and Innovation was established in 2024, with a focus on health discovery science, medical technologies and advanced therapeutics.   The institutes operate in close collaboration with CÚRAM, the Research Ireland-Taighde Éireann centre for medical devices, and BioInnovate, the fellowship programme under the Enterprise Ireland Innovators’ Initiative, both of which are based in University of Galway. Following the symposium, recommendations will be developed to support the life science sector’s future development and competitiveness.     Ends   

The triumphs and endeavours of athletes, sports clubs and coaches have been celebrated at the 40th University of Galway Sports Awards. Among the winners were Under-23 World Rowing Champion Donnacha Keeley, senior international cross country athlete Fiona Everard and the University Women’s Hockey Club. Donnacha Keeley won sports person of the year, while Caitlin Hughes from the Athletics Club won individual performance of the year for her contribution to the Irish Under-20 European Cross Country team. Some other winners on the night were Kate Ní Ghacháin (Unsung Hero award), Tiffanie Fitzgerald, for her contribution to University of Galway Camogie over her four years as an undergraduate student, and the Swimming and Waterpolo clubs for hosting the best event. The awards ceremony was held at the Radisson Red Hotel in Galway and hosted by RTÉ Sport’s Darren Frehill. Des Ryan, Director of Sport and Physical Wellbeing, University of Galway, said: “Our Sports Awards are a celebration of Sport in the University of Galway. They recognise our dual aspiration of achieving High Performance and Sport for All. The awards recognise the performances, achievements and hard work of our athletes, players, teams, coaches, committee members and volunteers. Our mission in the University of Galway Sports Unit is to be the most progressive and caring University sports programme on the island of Ireland. All the nominees and award winners are helping us on that mission. “Everyone involved in our Clubs bring honour, often glory, and also enjoyment, in no small amount, to University of Galway. “Many of the awardees will with certainty go on to achieve greatness in their chosen sport and all have and will continue to contribute great social capital to our environment and their future environments. For us in the Sports Unit, it is an honour and a pleasure to work with them and to get to know such talented individuals and to support all those involved in Clubs. We look forward to bright futures for all of our sporting community and take this opportunity of the awards to recognise all those who have greatly contributed to sport in the University of Galway.” Ciara Meehan, Dean of Students, University of Galway, said: “Congratulations to each of the awardees and a special word of thanks to all those who promote our university values of respect, openness and excellence through our Clubs. “Our annual sports awards reflect not only the excellence of our students in terms of preparation, performance and competing, but also the contribution they and their clubs make to promoting wellbeing and belonging in our community.” The University of Galway Sports Awards recognise performance, leadership and participation, as well as those that contribute to the running and development of the Clubs. They also celebrate remarkable final year individuals who have made an outstanding and sustained contribution to sport; shown an impeccable example of sportsmanship and a high level of performance and achievement; been an excellent ambassador within the University and for student sport; and competed at a regional level or above. University of Galway is now home to 40 plus active sports clubs, which are student-led and organised, with approximately 6,000 students participating in sport and activity daily at the University. 2025 Sports Award Winners Best Event of the Year The Relay Gala – Swimming and Waterpolo Club Captain of the Year Eoin Kenny (Baltinglass, Co. Wicklow) Boxing Club of the Year Rowing Club Coach of the Year Sebastian Locteau (Craughwell Co. Galway/France) Swimming and Waterpolo Most Improved Club Camogie Club Fundraising of the Year Fundraising Achievements 2024-2025 – Hockey Club Individual Performance of the Year Caitlin Hughes (Swinford, Co. Mayo) Athletics University Honours Fiona Everard, (Enniskeane, Co. Cork) Athletics Kara McCleane (Roscahill, Co. Galway) Basketball Tiffanie Fitzgerald (Gowran, Co. Kilkenny) Camogie Lauren Murray (Killiney, Co. Dublin) Sailing Thomas McStay (Claregalway, Co. Galway) Athletics Sports Person of the Year Donnacha Keeley (Clonmel, Co. Tipperary) Rowing Unsung Hero Kate Ní Ghacháin (Foxford, Co. Mayo) Kayak Team of the Year Women’s Senior 4 National Champions - Rowing Student’s Union Club Captains Choice – Female Dimana Nedeva, (Galway City/Sofia, Bulgaria) Badminton Student’s Union Club Captains Choice – Male Oisín Mc Laughlin (Moville, Inishowen, Co. Donegal) Pool and Snooker Dean of Student Award Adam Mullins (Clonmany, Inishowen, Co. Donegal) Mountaineering Sarah Hontz (Galway City/USA) Lacrosse Subacqua Club Muireann O’Reilly (Castlegar, Co. Galway) Camogie Surf Club Boxing Club Róise Ní Mhurchú (Belmullet, Co. Mayo) Surf Anna Sheehy (Tralee, Co. Kerry) parkrun Volleyball Director of Sports Award Mohammed Zajeer Ahmed (India/Galway) Cricket Swimming and Waterpolo Men’s Soccer Athletics Hockey and Mixed Hockey Colm O’Riordan (Furbo, Co. Galway) Judo Louise O’Connor (Moycullen, Co. Galway) Camogie Dave Daly (Gaelcarraig, Galway City) Men's Soccer Martin Hughes (Corrandulla, Co. Galway) Hockey Sean Byrne (Carlow town) Rowing Tom Keal (Crosshaven, Co. Cork) - Student’s Union Clubs Captain 2024-2025 Gradam Gaelach Award Swimming and Waterpolo Ends

A new digital archive of Threshold, one of Northern Ireland’s longest-running literary periodicals of the 20th century, has been digitised and made available online from University of Galway Library Archives. The new digital archive includes more than 3,000 pages of all published issues of the journal, including special themed issues on topics ranging from W.B. Yeats to Irish-America to literature during the Troubles. The archive also includes a selection of wider letters, pamphlets and advertisements from the journal’s archive. First published in 1957 by its founding editor, Mary O'Malley of the Lyric Players Theatre, Belfast, the journal provided an outlet for leading and emerging writers across poetry and fiction, as well as topical essays, reviews, and criticism for over thirty years. Its final issue was published in 1990. The Threshold digital archive will be formally launched during the Cúirt International Festival of Literature alongside an exhibition of original issues, photographs and correspondence relating to publication and from the wider Lyric Theatre/O'Malley archive. It can be viewed at https://digital.library.universityofgalway.ie/p/ms/categories?collection=629 Catriona Cannon, Head of Heritage Collections and Digitisation at University of Galway Library, said: "Threshold holds a special place in the literary history of Ireland, offering a platform for some of the most influential Irish voices of the 20th century over its thirty-three year run. We're excited to share this invaluable resource with a global audience online. By preserving over 3,000 pages of poetry, fiction, and essays, we ensure future generations can continue to engage with the journal's rich cultural legacy.” Conor O’Malley, son of Pearse and Mary O'Malley, said: “We are delighted that the full content of Threshold will now be accessible online to researchers from whole of Ireland and beyond. University of Galway Library is to be warmly congratulated on its initiative and vision.” University of Galway Archivist Dr Barry Houlihan said: “The new digital archive of Threshold opens up a hugely significant part of our literary heritage and an important journal of new writing since it was founded in 1957. Through its online archive Threshold will find a new global readership today.” Jimmy Fay, Executive Producer of the Lyric Theatre, said: “University of Galway Library Archives are providing a wonderful resource for students and enthusiasts of Irish theatre and literature with this welcome online presence of Threshold. It is an astonishing source of inspiration and another reason to celebrate the long-reaching and all-embracing vision of Lyric Theatre founder Mary O’Malley.” The Threshold archive launch events coincide with other activity at University of Galway as part to Cúirt International Festival of Literature, including those featuring students and staff, such as: University of Galway MA Showcase https://www.cuirt.ie/whats-on/ma-showcase/ Writing masterclasses, in association with Faber Academy, including one with Eimear McBride, author of A Girl is a Half-formed Thing, The Lesser Bohemians, Strange Hotel and The City Changes Its Face https://www.cuirt.ie/whats-on/fiction-masterclass/ As part of Arts in Action - University Translator-in-Residence Astrid Huisman and Keith Payne in conversation with Lorna Shaughnessy https://www.cuirt.ie/whats-on/arts-in-action-on-translation-with-keith-payne-and-the-university-translator-in-residence/ As part of Arts in Action - University of Galway Writer-in-Residence, Molly Hennigan: Visual and Literary Histories of Incarceration https://www.cuirt.ie/whats-on/university-of-galway-writer-in-residence-visual-and-literary-histories-of-incarceration/ Launch of the 33rd edition of ROPES Literary Journal by the MA in Literature and Publishing class https://www.cuirt.ie/whats-on/ropes-launch-5/ The Threshold journal archive lies within the wider Lyric Theatre/O’Malley archive at University of Galway Library, which documents and preserves a richly detailed history of theatre production, design, art, and music at the Lyric since its foundation. Overt the course of more than three decades, Threshold welcomed contributors and guest editors including Seamus Heaney, Mary Beckett, Kate O'Brien, Gerald Dawe, John Hewitt, John Montague, among others. Volume 1 of Threshold was introduced with the following foreword: “The History of Irish periodicals is not encouraging. Despite high literary standards and imaginative presentation of general topics, few have survived. No one, however, would deny the value of their contribution to creative writing and objective criticism.” The launch event on Friday April 11th at 4pm will include a panel discussion about the story and history of Threshold, its writers, editors and publications and on the future of literary periodicals. Speakers include Conor O’Malley, Dr Barry Houlihan, and Jimmy Fay, moderated by Lindsay-Ann Reid and introduced by Monica Crump. Ends