15 March 2024
Teagasc Researchers Inspire Young Minds at ESB Science Blast 2024
Eimear Ferguson, Science Communication and Engagement officer at Teagasc, tells us that last week Teagasc returned to support the ever popular children’s science competition, the ESB Science Blast held at RDS Simmonscourt.
Students from across the country came in their droves to proudly display their classes research projects on a variety of topics from “How do different animals see the world” by the students of John Scottus NS, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 to “How do we improve Biodiversity on the school grounds” from the students in Dunboyne SNS, in Country Meath. For its part Teagasc brought the marvels of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) to life at our bespoke engagement stand with a variety of age-appropriate experiments and demonstrations to showcase some of the work taking place across the organisation. Over four dynamic days, Teagasc researchers engaged with upwards of 3,500 primary school students and their teachers each day, igniting curiosity and fostering a passion for scientific exploration.
Walsh Scholar, Michael Arthur based in Teagasc Ashtown, illustrates aspects of his work on the microbial quality of rainwater to students attending the ESB Science Blast, held recently in the RDS Simmonscourt.
On Monday 4th March, Simranjit Kaur, Postdoctoral researcher, based in Teagasc OakPark, shared her expertise in plant and soil pathology, captivating students with handheld microscopes to observe aphids and worms up close. Tigist Shonte and Mehraj Fatema Mulla based in Teagasc Ashtown, showcased sustainable packaging innovations inspiring environmentally-conscious solutions. Also based at Ashtown, Walsh Scholar, Michael Arthur delved into the microbial wonders of rainwater, revealing its potential beyond hydration. Eimear Hutchinson from VistaMilk SFI Research Centre, based in Teagasc Moorepark elucidated the digital revolution in dairy farming, offering insights from farm to fridge.
On Tuesday 5th March, Walsh Scholar, Xinyue Dai introduced students to her work in artificial intelligence at VistaMilk SFI Research Centre, inviting them to explore a web-based game called “Coding with Cows” developed by the team. Walsh Scholar, Monjurul Hoque based at Ashtown, continued the exploration of sustainable packaging, highlighting Teagasc’s commitment to eco-friendly solutions. Postdoctoral researcher, Niall Hammond from the Teagasc Rural Economy and Development programme engaged students with an agriculture-themed quiz, making learning fun and interactive. Finally, Walsh Scholar, Animesh Singh Sengar showcased alternative meat products, reflecting Teagasc’s innovative approach to food technology.
On Wednesday 6th March, recently appointed Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral researcher, Marta Niedzicka, based at Teagasc OakPark, guided students through plant genotyping, culminating in a vibrant display of hand-drawn flowers. Multimedia intern based at Teagasc Moorepark, Alex Oltean from Munster Technological University, Cork, wowed students with his bespoke farming game, challenging them to test their agricultural knowledge on a variety of topics in a fastest-finger type quiz game. Education and Public Engagement manager at VistaMilk SFI Research Centre, Elena Hayes, immersed students in digitalising dairy farming with a miniature cow replica, simplifying complex concepts and comparing it to human anatomy and physiology. Walsh Scholar from the Grassland Department at Teagasc Moorepark, Rochelle van Emmenis, empowered students to explore environmental science through hands-on activities, enriching their understanding of the nitrogen cycle.
Finally on Thursday 7th March, researchers engaged with thousands of students from Ireland’s Gaelscoileanna (Irish speaking schools in Ireland). Research Officer at Teagasc Moorepark, Orla O’Sullivan, illuminated the microbiome’s mysteries across various ecosystems, sparking curiosity in microbial sciences. Site manager at VistaMilk SFI Research Centre, Cheryl Nolan, introduced students again to “Coding with Cows,” a game fostering computational skills. Last but not least, Walsh Scholar based at Johnstown Castle, Bridget Fox, showcased freshwater ecosystems, captivating students with microscopic investigations of local river samples.
Researchers Dheeraj Singh Rathore, Marta Niedzicka and Rochelle van Emmenis at the Teagasc Stand at the ESB Science Blast. Research support staff Eimear Ferguson and Alex Oltean pictured on the right.
Teagasc’s commitment to STEM education and public engagement was exemplified throughout our participation in the event. The presence at the event was coordinated by research operations staff Eimear Ferguson and Aoife Quinn.