Impact & Opinions | Tionchar & Tuairimí

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In Focus
23 June 2025
26  MINS

What Is Just Transition? Combining Expertise For the Global Public Good

Dr Una Murray, Programme Director MA in International Development Practice, University of Galway

It is well known that the negative impacts of climate change are not evenly shared and that impoverished rural communities are in greater danger from its effects. Researching ways to combat harm brought about by climate change is the cornerstone of Dr Una Murray’s work, particularly the use of social safety nets to alleviate damage. In this article, she explains how her research work across the globe has led her to the concept of the Just Transition, concerned with ensuring fairness in climate actions. Her vision is for a Just Transition cluster at University of Galway, engaging multiple disciplines in working toward the global public good and social justice.

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In Focus
19 June 2025
6  MINS

Spotlight On: Dr Maggie Reddy

Dr Maggie Reddy, Lecturer, School of Biological & Chemical Sciences, University of Galway

Seaweeds and Seaforests: Exploring the DNA of Marine Biodiversity   Complementing Cois Coiribe’s Spring Edition focus on Earth, Ocean, and Natural Sciences, this spotlight feature on Dr Maggie Reddy explores her unique research and motivations. Read on to find out more about both her academic insight and her vision for the years to come.

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In Focus
17 June 2025
8  MINS

Spotlight On: Dr Christina Tadiri

Dr Christina Tadiri, Lecturer, College of Science and Engineering, University of Galway

A Host of Questions on the Biodiversity–Disease Relationship Complementing Cois Coiribe’s Spring Edition focus on Earth, Ocean, and Natural Sciences, this spotlight feature on Dr Christina P. Tadiri explores her unique research and motivations. Read on to find out more about both her academic insight and her vision for the years to come.

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In Focus
05 June 2025
20  MINS

All Together Now: Working Collaboratively For Climate Action Success

Tiarnan McCusker, Community Climate Action Officer, Galway City Council

Winning Hearts and Minds on Climate Action In this article we hear the thoughts of Tiarnan McCusker, the Community Climate Action Officer for Galway City. Tiarnan shares his thinking on young people’s passion for sustainability and nature, the exciting community projects the Council is funding, and the first-of-its-kind 2024 Galway climate festival. He tells us about benefitting from the expertise of University of Galway academics, and how we need all sectors of Galway to work together for successful climate action.

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In Focus
04 June 2025
20  MINS

The SH2AMROCK Project – A Galway Solution to a Global Problem

Dr Rory Monaghan, Professor in Energy Systems Engineering, Head of Mechanical Engineering, University of Galway

From diesel to electric or somewhere in between, vehicles of all types ply our roads and motorways day and night. In our busy modern work culture, transport is an important day-to-day issue for everyone, with much improved public transport likely to be the solution. In this Cois Coiribe feature, Professor Rory Monaghan of the Energy Research Centre, Ryan Institute and School of Engineering examines the promise of hydrogen – one of the newest developments in sustainable energy. He explains his work toward bringing that promise to fruition through creation of a ‘Hydrogen Valley’, and how Ireland, with its enormous renewable energy resources, is ideally positioned to lead in this area. 

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In Focus
03 June 2025
19  MINS

From Connemara to New South Wales: A Chat with Consul General Rosie Keane

Rosie Keane, Consul General of Ireland in Sydney | Alumna

In this article, Cois Coiribe explores University of Galway alumna Rosie Keane’s journey from student to Consul General of Ireland in Australia’s New South Wales. In the latest Australian census, nearly 10% of Australians identify as having Irish heritage. Irish links to Australia remain strong and seen, and we are delighted to have the opportunity to spotlight Keane’s background and impressive career as we get a glimpse into what it means to represent Ireland and Irish citizens abroad.

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In Focus
02 June 2025
19  MINS

Into the Deep: Searching the Ocean For Climate Solutions

Isuri Weerasinghe, PhD Researcher, Department of Earth and Ocean Sciences, University of Galway

Cois Coiribe is delighted to highlight the journey of Isuri Weerasinghe, a current PhD Student with the Ryan Institute at University of Galway. She holds an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree in Marine Environment and Resources, which she regards as changing her whole life trajectory, prompting her move from Sri Lanka. To this day, her experiences continue to inspire her enthusiasm for this area of study. In this article, she explains where her inspiration comes from and her persistent passion for Ocean Sciences. 

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In Focus
28 May 2025
15  MINS

Defining the Future of Agri-Food: Methane Mitigation Strategies For Ruminants

Dr Sinéad M. Waters, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Ryan Institute, University of Galway

In the advent of global climate change and ever-present population growth, food security is something at the top of people’s minds. To ensure that the populace is well fed, our agricultural practices need to align with demand. As the population grows, the demand for livestock productivity increases, which leads to higher, methane emissions which is a by-product of animals’ digestive processes. This means one issue cannot be addressed without tackling the other. In this Cois Coiribe article, Dr Sinéad Waters walks us through what potential and promising solutions look like for a more secure agri-food future.  

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In Focus
23 May 2025
17  MINS

All Boats Rising: An Introduction to the Ryan Institute

Prof Frances Fahy, Director of the Ryan Institute, University of Galway

Cois Coiribe is delighted to share the thoughts of our Director of the Ryan Institute, Prof Frances Fahy. Embark on a journey of discovery, ambition, and expertise, and explore the evolving odyssey that is University of Galway’s transformative Ryan Institute. 

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In Focus
23 May 2025
7  MINS

In Focus: The Irish Centre for Human Rights Blog

Dr Pearce Clancy Lecturer, ICHR, University of Galway | Co-Editor of the ICHR Blog, Dr Joel Hanisek Research Fellow, ICHR, University of Galway | Co-Editor of the ICHR Blog

The Irish Centre for Human Rights Blog offers timely analysis and commentary on critical global human rights issues, serving as a vital platform for insightful debate and reflections. 

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In Focus
23 May 2025
15  MINS

Watching the Atlantic: Ireland’s Climate Future and the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation

Dr Audrey Morley, Lecturer in Physical Geography, Ryan Institute (COREx) and iCRAG Researcher, University of Galway

Dr Audrey Morley is a leading voice in Irish climate science. Her internationally leading research on reconstructing past ocean climates, for which she has developed robust innovative climate proxies, was published in Nature Communications in winter 2024. In this article, Cois Coiribe explores Dr Morley’s research and insights into the implications of ocean currents and temperatures. Her work on the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is a crucial part of the global effort to monitor and understand changes that could affect our climate in a major way. 

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In Focus
23 May 2025
38  MINS

The Irish Centre for Human Rights – A Beacon for Human Rights

Prof Siobhan Mullally, Director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights, University of Galway

Prof Siobhán Mullally is Established Professor of Human Rights Law and Director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights (ICHR) at University of Galway. She also holds the role of UN Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, especially women and children. Recognising inequality from a young age, she sought solutions through her research and work across the globe in contexts of conflict and injustice. As the Irish Centre for Human Rights celebrates its 25th birthday, Siobhán takes Cois Coiribe to the heart of the Centre, explaining the real-world impact that human rights researchers have against struggles for justice, in conflict settings, and in dark times. She takes us through her vision for the Centre, its legacy, and its future. 

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In Focus
22 May 2025
29  MINS

Media Regulation: Working Towards Online Safety, Cultural Inclusivity, and Independent Voices

Rónán Ó Domhnaill, Media Development Commisioner, Coimisiún na Meán | Alumnus

A journalist at heart: Upholding integrity, protecting Irish-language culture, and promoting inclusivity through media regulation   University of Galway alumnus Rónán Ó Domhnaill has been an unstoppable force in the Irish media landscape from his early days as a journalist with Nuacht, to nine years as An Coimisinéir Teanga, to his current role as Media Development Commissioner at Coimisiún na Meán.  He gave Cois Coiribe an insight into his role in combatting mis/disinformation, the vital importance of independent journalism, and working with the European Commission in the area of online safety. He explains his positive view of how traditional and digital media can work together, and of the strong role regulation can play in protecting truth, restoring trust in media, and promoting cultural inclusivity. Read on for a fascinating journey through the worlds of media, regulation and Irish-language culture. 

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In Focus
22 May 2025
17  MINS

Dr Fidelma Donlon: Advocating For a More Just and Equal World

Dr Fidelma Donlon, Registrar of the Kosovo Specialist Chambers | Alumna

The Irish Centre for Human Rights has acted as a foundation for successful careers for law and policy professionals the world over. One such individual is Dr Fidelma Donlon, Registrar at the Kosovo Specialist Chambers. In this Cois Coiribe article, we explore her time with the University, and her motivations to become involved in this area of practice. 

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In Focus
22 May 2025
2  MINS

In Focus: University of Galway Strategy | Straitéis 2025-30

University of Galway, Office of the President

University of Galway   Of Galway, for the world.  

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In Focus
22 May 2025
4  MINS

Foreword by Interim President Prof Peter McHugh / Focal ón Uachtarán Eatramhach Ollamh Peter McHugh

Interim President Prof Peter McHugh

Fáilte is fiche go dtí eagrán an tsamhraidh d’Iris Alumni Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, Cois Coiribe.

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People
20 May 2025
11  MINS

Student Voice: Peter O’Neill, 2024 Student Sustainability Leadership Award Recipient

Peter O'Neill, College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Celtic Studies (History) | Undergraduate Student

Peter O’Neill is a second-year history student from Ballymacward, Mountbellew, Co Galway. Peter has been involved in youth activism for four years, culminating in representing Ireland at the 13th UNESCO Youth Forum. In April 2024, University of Galway marked Earth Day by announcing the winners of the Student Sustainability Leadership Awards 2024, which students Molly Hickey and Peter O’Neill were recipient of. Cois Coiribe had the chance to catch up with Peter a year on from his award. Read on to hear what he had to say!

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23 April 2025
8  MINS

Navigating Tomorrow: Leadership, Cybersecurity, and AI in the Future of Work

J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics

How are businesses preparing for the tipping point of artificial intelligence? And how can leadership be reimagined amidst this technological shift? These were the animating questions of the University of Galway Business Summit 2025, held on Friday, 4 April. Drawing over 400 attendees, the high-impact event offered a critical lens on the rapidly evolving nature of work and enterprise. 

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28 February 2025
31  MINS

A Quarter-Century Milestone: 25 Years of Human Rights Programmes

Irish Centre for Human Rights at University of Galway

For 25 years, University of Galway has been a proponent of the crucial analysis and activism associated with human rights. As part of this effort, the University first established its position as a leader in human rights research in the year 2000. A quarter of a century later, Cois Coiribe is pleased to celebrate a great milestone of the lasting presence and impact of these programmes.

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Innovate Together
28 February 2025
5  MINS

CÚRAM | Spotlight On: Dr Eoin McEvoy

Dr Eoin McEvoy, Associate Professor in Biomedical Engineering, University of Galway

Complementing Cois Coiribe‘s article on Finding Ways to Live Well as We Age from Prof Abhay Pandit, Founding Director of CÚRAM, this spotlight feature on Dr Eoin McEvoy explores his unique research and motivations. Read on to find out more about both his academic insight as well as his vision for the years to come.

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19 February 2025
36  MINS

Human Rights and the Care of Older People: Dignity, Vulnerability, and the Anti-Torture Norm

Dr Maeve O'Rourke, Lecturer in Human Rights at the Irish Centre for Human Rights (ICHR), School of Law, University of Galway

First published in the Irish Centre for Human Rights Blog, this article featuring Dr Maeve O’Rourke covers key arguments from her recently published book, Human Rights and the Care of Older People: Dignity, Vulnerability, and the Anti-Torture Norm (Oxford University Press 2024). Dr O’Rourke’s monograph explores international anti-torture norm in the conceptualisation of older people’s human rights. As described by Felice Gaer, former Vice-Chairperson of the UN Committee Against Torture in Geneva and pioneering international lawyer, it presents ‘a new and important assessment of standards for consent and care.’ Cois Coiribe is delighted to have the opportunity to spotlight this great achievement and provide insight into this topic which delves into core societal issues.

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Innovate Together
06 February 2025
8  MINS

CÚRAM | Spotlight On: Dr Andrew Daly

Dr Andrew Daly, Assistant Professor in Biomedical Engineering, University of Galway

Complementing Cois Coiribe‘s article on Finding Ways to Live Well as We Age from Prof Abhay Pandit, Founding Director of CÚRAM, this spotlight feature on Dr Andrew Daly explores his unique research and motivations. Read on to find out more about both his academic insight as well as his vision for the years to come.

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Innovate Together
04 February 2025
19  MINS

Ireland’s Youth: Informing Health Policy and Practice Through Research

Professor Saoirse Nic Gabhainn, Professor of Health Promotion, University of Galway; Co-leader HBSC Ireland Group, Professor Colette Kelly, Professor of Health Promotion, University of Galway; Co-leader HBSC Ireland Group

In this article, Cois Coiribe connects with Prof Colette Kelly and Prof Saoirse Nic Gabhainn, both Personal Professors of Health Promotion at University of Galway. They lead the University‘s Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) Ireland team, based in the Health Promotion Research Centre, a World Health Organization Collaborative Centre. Founded in 1990, the Centre is now based in the School of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences.    Over the last 30 years, University of Galway has made major contributions to research in child and adolescent health policy and practice through the Irish HBSC study. This national study has been repeated seven times, every four years since 1998. Over time, it has had a substantial impact on policy and strategy around children’s and young people’s health and wellbeing. As a long-term project, it has established, monitored and shaped national indicators of child health. Through the Irish HBSC team’s leadership, it has significantly enhanced youth participation in European policy making.

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Innovate Together
04 February 2025
30  MINS

Bridging the Gap: How BioInnovate Is Bringing Health Technology from Laboratory to Industry

Prof Martin O’Halloran, Established Professor in Medical Electronics, University of Galway; Executive Director of BioInnovate

How do you get fantastic ideas that will improve people’s health from the university lab to the local clinic? This is the challenge BioInnovate has been tackling for 12 years as part of the MedTech sector in Galway. In this article Prof Martin O’Halloran, Established Professor in Medical Electronics at University of Galway and Executive Director of BioInnovate, explains the unique recruitment process BioInnovate uses to find the health champions of the future, and his passion for bridging the gap between research and patient care through innovation. 

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04 February 2025
32  MINS

Irish Culture, Transformed: A Conversation with Brian Molloy

Brian Molloy, Head of Transformation at the Irish Defence Forces; Uachtarán, The Camogie Association

Cois Coiribe is delighted to have the opportunity to highlight University of Galway alumnus Brian Molloy, who has worked in the private sector for over 30 years, earned his MBA at University of Galway, and applied his experience towards large-scale transformation across the Department of Social Protection following his appointment in 2019. Mr Molloy is now Head of Transformation at the Irish Defence Forces and is spearheading a Government-approved High Level Action Plan, leading organisational reimagining on a broad scale. The plan itself has been recognised as a significant change in the State. Mr Molloy was appointed as the first male Uachtarán (President) of the Camogie Association in 2024 due to his staunch support of female participation in sport alongside being a vocal proponent for the structural integration of the Gaelic Games. Here, Mr Molloy discusses his experiences both governmentally and as a leading voice of camogie in Ireland.

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Innovate Together
30 January 2025
13  MINS

Crossing Oceans and Building Solutions: Dr Emir Muñoz’s Journey to Senior Manager, Machine Learning at Genesys

Dr Emir Muñoz, Senior Manager, Machine Learning at Genesys | University of Galway Alumni

Dr Emir Muñoz is a Senior Manager, Machine Learning at Genesys as well as a graduate of University of Galway. Dr Muñoz worked with the University’s Data Science Institute (DSI), previously the Digital Enterprise Research Institute (DERI). This experience provided a stepping stone into the world of industry engagement, leading to a permanent position with Genesys, a global cloud leader in AI-Powered Experience Orchestration. Read below to learn about Dr Muñoz’s journey from Santiago, Chile to Galway, Ireland, and how University of Galway paved a path toward success. 

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Innovate Together
28 January 2025
26  MINS

Collaborating for Health: The New Institute Looking at Tomorrow’s Health Solutions

Professor Ted Vaughan, Professor in Biomedical Engineering, Interim Director of the Institute for Health Discovery and Innovation, University of Galway

Cois Coiribe talks to Professor Ted Vaughan, Professor in Biomedical Engineering and Interim Director of the brand-new Institute for Health Discovery and Innovation at University of Galway. The new Institute consolidates a huge amount of the activity across the University in the fields of biomedical science, biomedical engineering, regenerative medicine and beyond, bringing researchers together to work in health discovery and innovation. Prof Vaughan explains how the Institute looks to tomorrow’s healthcare by focusing on gaining new understanding of disease and developing disruption solutions to health-based challenges, while benefitting from the support of Galway’s close MedTech community. Read on as we get a glimpse into Prof Vaughan’s experience as a researcher and Institute Director. 

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Innovate Together
24 January 2025
21  MINS

Listening to Young People – The Key to Tackling the Climate Crisis

Dr Kathy Reilly, Lecturer in Human Geography, School of Geography, Archaeology and Irish Studies, University of Galway

The climate crisis, a global challenge, disproportionately affects young people. They face the consequences of environmental changes and policy decisions made today; however, they are often excluded from the decision-making processes. The CCC-CATAPULT project, co-led in Ireland by Dr Kathy Reilly, Lecturer in the field of Human Geography here at University of Galway, offers a powerful platform for young people to actively engage, placing human experiences and perspectives at the forefront and ensuring young people have a voice. In conversation with Cois Coiribe, Dr Reilly delves into the intersection of geography, activism, and education, illustrating how projects like CCC-CATAPULT are a critical shift toward a more inclusive and equitable approach to global discourse. Read more about the project and her involvement as a geographer who’s passionate about positive impact. 

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Innovate Together
22 January 2025
< 1  MINS

Galway MedTech Timeline

The latest edition of Cois Coiribe, our interactive alumni magazine, explores MedTech and more! Take a look at the incredible medical innovation that’s taken place in the Galway region, its impact extending far beyond.

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Innovate Together
21 January 2025
31  MINS

Why Ireland Is a Standout Choice for Clinical Trials

Prof Fidelma Dunne, Professor in Medicine, College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences and Interim Director of the Institute for Clinical Trials, University of Galway

Ireland offers a centre for MedTech and healthcare innovation; why can’t it be a leader in clinical trials as well? Here, Cois Coiribe connects with Prof Fidelma Dunne, Professor in Medicine at the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Galway and Interim Director of the Institute for Clinical Trials. She offers insight into the state of healthcare and clinical trials, and she explores advancements in diabetes medicine and management. Read more below to get a glimpse into Prof Dunne’s vision for Ireland. 

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