Galway is to be the venue for Ireland’s first participation in the European Researchers Night which takes place in 800 venues across 320 cities on Friday, September 23.
The ‘Sea2Sky’ themed event will see hundreds of scientists present their research from the fields of marine, atmospherics and astronomy. It also promises to be a fun filled event for all the family with thousands expectedt to visit Leisureland in Salthill on the night, to participate in experiments, competitions and quizzes, to watch demonstrations and simulations, and to exchange ideas and get to know the researchers.
NUI Galway’s Dr Andrew Shearer, who is heading up the event, said: “It is very exciting to be part of such a large European celebration, and in terms of research, Ireland has much to celebrate. Around the world our reputation is growing as a hub of science, discovery and innovation. This event on September 23 offers the opportunity for us to explore the future being created on our doorstep. We envisage an evening full of fun, surprise and wonder.”
As part of the build-up to the big event, the details of the schools competition was announced this week by the organisers - NUI Galway in collaboration with the Marine Institute and Galway Atlantiquaria. The challenge is to design a futuristic research vessal for the year 2040, where the Sea2Sky scientists, inventors, and dreamers teamer will use it for exploring new discoveries from the ocean to the sky. The competition is open to participants aged eight to 18 years old and the prizes include a two-night family break at the McWilliam Park Hotel in Co Mayo, membership to the aquarium and book hampers.
Details and entry guidelines for the competition are available at www.sea2sky.ie Closing date for entries is Wednesday, September 21, and all designs will be displayed during Sea2Sky at Leisureland on September 23.
The Sea2Sky event is being funded under the European Union’s Marie Curie Programme and by Discover Science & Engineering. Sea2Sky is a free event open to all ages and will take place in Leisureland and Galway Atlantaquaria, Salthill from 11am-11pm.
