Faculty of Science and Engineering Researchers Scoop Five President’s Research Excellence and Impact Awards

Friday, December 8, 2023

University of Limerick President Kerstin Mey has spoken of the ‘profound importance’ of research in unlocking new possibilities and addressing challenges.

Professor Mey was speaking at the President’s Research Excellence and Impact Awards at an inaugural event held at the Pavilion on the UL campus, at which a host of winners were announced.

“It is with an immense sense of pride and gratitude that we can come here to celebrate the accomplishments of our dedicated researchers at the President’s Research Excellence and Impact Awards. This occasion is a testament to the unwavering commitment and tireless efforts that have propelled University of Limerick to the forefront of research and innovation.

“At the heart of our gathering today is a recognition of the profound importance of research not only to our academic institution but to the wider society we serve. Research is the engine that propels progress, unlocks new possibilities, and addresses the pressing challenges that confront our world. It is a beacon of knowledge that illuminates the path toward a better future.

“The impact of our research is the measure of its significance beyond academic circles. Our work must resonate with the broader community, effecting positive change and contributing to the betterment of society. Our researchers are not merely scholars; they are agents of transformation, and their impact echoes far beyond the confines of our campus,” Professor Mey added.

The President’s Research Excellence and Impact Awards recognise staff at all University levels who have made outstanding contributions in the excellence and impact of their research (beyond academia).

The awards have been running since 2020 with Research Output Awards category established this year at faculty level. This award supports UL’s commitments as part of DORA and the Coalition for the Reform of Research Assessment.

President’s Research Excellence and Impact Awardees 2023

Dr Clodagh Toomey, Research Fellow, School of Allied Health - Early Career Researcher – Starting

Dr Tadhg Kennedy, Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Bernal Institute - Early Career Researcher – Consolidator  

Professor Rose Galvin and Professor Katie Robinson, Ageing Research Centre - Outstanding Research Collaboration 

Daragh Bradshaw, Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues Research. Research Output Award (Starting), Faculty of Education and Health Sciences.

Siobhán Howard, Department of Psychology Assistant Dean Academic Affairs, Faculty of Education & Health Sciences, HRI and Centre for Social Issues Research  - Research Output Award (Consolidator) Faculty of Education and Health Sciences.

Mathew Herring, Associate Professor, Department of Physical Education & Sports Sciences & Physical Activity for Health Research Centre, HRI – Research Output Award (Advanced) Faculty of Education and Health Sciences.

Darragh Flannery, Associate Professor in Economics, Kemmy Business School. Research Output Award (Interdisciplinary), Kemmy Business School.

Shayon Bhattacharya, Assistant Professor in Physical Science, Department of Physics, SSPC & Bernal. Research Output Award (Starting), Faculty of Science & Engineering.

Daniel Granato, Professor, Department of Biological Sciences & Bernal Institute. Research Output Award (Advanced), Faculty of Science & Engineering.

Subir Halder, Associate Professor, Department of Electronic & Computer Engineering. Research Output Award (Consolidator), Faculty of Science & Engineering.

Elfed Lewis, Professor of Electronic & Computer Engineering. Research Output Award (Interdisciplinary), Faculty of Science & Engineering.

Conor Caldwell, Associate Professor, Irish World Academy of Music & Dance. Research Output Award (Consolidator), Faculty of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences.

Sindy Joyce, Lecturer in Traveller Studies, Department of Sociology, Jennifer Schweppe, Professor of Law, Amanda Haynes, Professor of Sociology. Research Output Award (Interdisciplinary) Faculty of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences.