In an exciting new collaboration, UCD and Explorium - Ireland’s leading sport and science centre - have joined forces to bring cutting-edge research to the public in engaging and interactive ways.
The collaboration connects UCD's world-class academic expertise with Explorium's ability to captivate and inspire diverse audiences, to make STEM accessible and exciting for everyone. It provides an opportunity to translate research into experiences that educate and engage the public, inspiring future generations of scientists and innovators.
UCD researchers have reached more than 800 school students so far, sharing their fascinating insights on conservation, human nature interaction, electrical engineering, earth sciences, climate change and sustainable food with eager young minds.
With 300 interactive exhibits designed to ignite curiosity and help visitors discover the wonders of science through sport and hands-on experiences, Explorium has three main sections: Science, Sport and Junior. The science section includes Ireland’s largest Tesla coil, a Maker's Lab and VR Planetarium. In Sport, visitors can test their speed, strength and agility on the same equipment used by the world’s best sportspeople. The Junior section has more than fifty science and sport activities, and a reading nook, perfect for reading your stories of research to budding scientists. Visitors of all ages can explore the wonders of science through touch, experimentation, and play.
Through the UCDxExplorium collaboration, communities can gain access to cutting-edge research that complements the exhibits and programmes. The infusion of real-world research shows visitors that scientific advancements are happening on their doorstep, creating a space where research can be communicated in an approachable and exciting way, while giving UCD researchers the opportunity to reach a broader audience, fostering a culture of curiosity and community engagement.
The partnership aims to inspire the next generation of thinkers, researchers, and innovators, and demonstrate the essential role of public engagement in the research process. Opportunities for researchers to get involved in UCDxExplorium in 2025 will be shared on the UCD Research & Innovation Workvivo space in the coming weeks.
Upcoming talks
Sat 30 Nov, 12-2PM: Melissa Kinch
Melissa Kinch is a PhD candidate and a registered nurse. Her research focuses on helping young people and their families living with a rare kidney condition to transition from child to adult health services. Melissa collaborates with patients and healthcare teams to design a tool that will support this important process in hospitals.
Sat 30 Nov, 12-2PM: Karin Vancikova
Karin Vancíková is a PhD student with a master’s in Biomedical Physics. She uses advanced imaging techniques to study the development and regeneration of articular cartilage. Her research aims to improve treatments for joint injuries and diseases like osteoarthritis.
Images: (Left) Dr Paul Cuffe, UCD School of Electrical & Electronic Engineering giving a talk on energy systems at Explorium;(Top) Dr Anna Moulter and Juan Quintero Marin, UCD School of Architecture, Planning and Environmental Policy, engaging with Explorium visitors on the I-CHANGE citizen science project.