UCC STEM Awards 2023

17 May 2023

UCC celebrated the successes and achievements of students and staff of the College of Science, Engineering and Food Science (SEFS) at the annual UCC STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Awards held on 16 May.

A total of 51 students and staff were presented with prizes at a special ceremony in Devere Hall. Student awards included the Thermo Fisher Scientific Prize in Organic Chemistry, the Dr Catherine Keogh Memorial Grant (presented by MSD, Ballydine), the Peel Memorial Prize, the Quercus University Scholar, and the College of SEFS Graduate of the Year Awards.

Staff were recognised through the Student Nominated Staff Awards, the Staff Citizenship Award, and the Excellence in Education and Public Engagement Award. 

The Awards also showcase the university’s commitment to advancing research excellence through the Publication of the Year Award. This prize acknowledges the best peer-reviewed academic papers produced by UCC STEM research students.

Professor Sarah Culloty, Head, College of Science, Engineering and Food Science commended the awardees:

“I would like to congratulate all our award recipients on their success. The students celebrated at this year’s Awards are an exemplar for the study of STEM. Through their impressive commitment to academic excellence and personal development, they are an inspiration to their peers and to the wider university.

We are also delighted to recognise the achievements of our outstanding staff whose leadership and support are essential to the success of the College, and whose work extends into the community.” 

The following representatives from the School of Chemistry were honoured at the awards:

Quercus University Scholar 2022 – Ciara Millerick

The Catherine Keogh Memorial Grant – Emily Goff

The Thermo Fisher Scientific Prize in Organic Chemistry – Ciara Millerick

Quercus Scholars – James Hennessy & Fionn Twomey

Student-Nominated Staff Awards – Dr Orla Ni Dhubhghaill

SEFS Excellence in EPE Award 2023 – Dr Davide Tiana

Postgraduate Research Publication of the Year – Ibithaj Albalawi

Congratulating the winners from the School of Chemistry, Head of School Prof. Anita Maguire said, “the recognition of excellence among the students and staff in the School of Chemistry at SEFS level is tremendous – well done to all. Sincere thanks to our sponsors (MSD and Thermo Fisher Scientific) for enabling two awards for our students – the partnership is very much appreciated. The School fondly remembers Dr Catherine Keogh (née Slattery) and is delighted to have this award in her memory each year.”

Please see the STEM Awards 2023 booklet for a full list of the awardees.