10 January 2025
Teagasc Inspires the Next Generation at BT Young Scientist 2025
Teagasc is delighted to once again sponsor the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, now in its 61st year, Ireland’s largest secondary school Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths competition.
Eimear Ferguson, Education and Public Engagement Officer, who coordinates the Teagasc presence at the event, highlights why this event is so important and what visitors can expect this year: “Teagasc’s presence at the exhibition reflects its commitment to inspiring future leaders in agriculture while demonstrating the vital role research plays in shaping sustainable, competitive food production systems.”
In addition to sponsoring the competition, Teagasc has an interactive stand in the Exhibitor’s Hall over the three days, showcasing the fascinating intersection of agriculture, science, education and technology. Whether you’re curious about forestry, fascinated by food science, or looking for a future in agriculture, the Teagasc stand at the event is a must-see during your visit to the BT Young Scientist 2025. With a packed schedule of engaging demonstrations, the stand promises to captivate participating students, teachers, parents, and members of the public alike.
Gavin Fowler, Technician at Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens engaging with visitors to the Teagasc stand at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition 2025.
Visitors can explore a variety of activities and displays that highlight the breadth of agricultural research, education and advisory at Teagasc including:
- Integrating Forestry into Agriculture: Experience Ireland’s diverse forestry ecosystems through an immersive virtual tour. Forestry experts will challenge attendees to identify native tree species and guess the age of an Ash tree, showcasing the potential of integrating forestry into agriculture.
- Plant Virology: Led by postdoctoral researcher Marta Niedzicka, students will play a board game simulating the challenges faced by plants. This fun, hands-on activity introduces critical concepts in plant health and ecology.
- Grass-Fed Science: Walsh Scholar Sarah Kearney will dive into the science behind grass-fed versus concentrate-fed beef, emphasizing the role of phytochemicals in flavour, nutrition, and sustainability.
- Milk’s Hidden Science: Research Technician Martina O’Brien will unravel the secrets of milk’s complex composition and its nutritional properties, providing a fascinating look into this everyday staple.
- Sensory Science: Emily Flanagan invites participants to explore the science of perception and how our senses influence our experience of flavour and aroma.
- Education at Teagasc: Discuss our educational offerings, with experts on hand to discuss pathways to exciting careers in agriculture and food science through courses, degrees, and new apprenticeships.
On Friday night, January 9, Teagasc Director, Professor Frank O’Mara will award the Teagasc prize to the project that best demonstrates a thorough understanding of the science of agricultural or food production, or the use of science to improve technologies available to agricultural or food production. This prestigious prize celebrates the ingenuity and innovation of young minds across Ireland, and Teagasc is proud to play a pivotal role in supporting the next generation of agricultural researchers and innovators.
Join us at the BT Young Scientist 2025 for a celebration of innovation, curiosity, and the power of science to transform agriculture.