A FOUL TALE TRIUMPHS AT SCIENCE SPEAK

The science behind the prevention of furry deposits and scum build ups formed the basis of the prize-winning presentation from University College Dublin’s Charles Nwankire at the ‘SCIENCE SPEAK’ competition which took place in the RDS Concert Hall on April 27, 2010.

Entitled ‘Nano Engineered Surfaces to Prevent Fouling’ Mr Nwankire’s presentation illustrated the environmental importance of finding suitable coatings to prevent the deposition of unwanted material onto surfaces of industrial machinery, fish farm nets and even radiators in our homes. Speaking with an obvious passion for his research, using ordinary language and avoiding the use of scientific jargon, Mr Nwankire was described by the panel of judges as being “a wonderful science communicator with an inherent ability to inspire”.

Now in its fifth year, ‘SCIENCE SPEAK’ continues to showcase the research of a postgraduate finalist from each of the Republic’s seven Universities. They are asked to individually present their research in an easy to understand manner to a non-specialist audience in a competition that tests both their communication skills and their ability to make their science accessible to all. This win is a double coup for UCD having also claimed the ‘SCIENCE SPEAK’ title in 2006.

Opening the event, An Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, Mary Coughlan TD, said “initiatives like ‘SCIENCE SPEAK’ provide an important platform for our best postgraduate science communicators to present their research to a general audience in a manner that is easy to understand and generates interest in the subject. These events not only stimulate young people’s interest in science and technology but also reach out to their parents who can play a strong influential role when it comes to choosing subjects at both second and third-level.”

Mr Nwankire received €1,000 for his winning presentation. Second place and a cheque for €300 went to Heather McLaughlin from University College Cork for her talk, ‘Listeria Monocytogenes and the Battle for Iron Inside the Body’. Third prize, worth €200, went to Susan Byrne, representing University of Dublin, Trinity College with her presentation ‘Why do Genetic Epidemiologists like Climbing Family Trees?’ Each runner-up also received a cheque for €100.

Master of ceremonies for the night was RTÉ presenter Pat Kenny who, together with the panel of judges, had the unenviable task of selecting the winning presentations. The judging panel included Dick Ahlstrom, Science Editor, The Irish Times; Peter Brabazon, Programme Director, Discover Science and Engineering; Evelyn Cusack, RTÉ meteorologist; Keelin Shanley, RTÉ and Aoibhinn Ní Shúilleabháin, TV presenter and teacher. 

‘SCIENCE SPEAK’ is a joint initiative organised annually by the RDS and The Irish Times in association with Irish Universities Promoting Science. It is sponsored by Discover Science and Engineering and by Pfizer at Grange Castle.

The RDS, founded in 1731, continues to fulfil its commitment to advancing agriculture, arts, industry and science. The coordination of Science Speak is part of the RDS Foundation’s programme which aims to support excellence in scientific endeavour and communication and emphasise the importance of science and technology in economic and social development.

Picture Caption - Charles Nwankire, UCD, winner of Science Speak 2010, pictured with his 7 month old son Chidiebabe. Science Speak, which took place in the RDS Concert Hall on April 27, 2010, is a joint RDS The Irish Times initiative organised in association with Irish Universities Promoting Science to encourage excellence in science communication