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