Podcasts about setu

South East Technological University (SETU) has been awarded funding as part of a prestigious European consortium delivering the BECEE project - Balanced and Enhanced Collaboration for an Entrepreneurship Ecosystem - a transformative initiative aimed at fostering entrepreneurial talent and strengthening innovation capacity across Europe. Led by Rachel O'Dowd, Prof. Helen Hughes, and Dr Ultan McCarthy from SETU's Department of Land Sciences, with Dr James O'Sullivan, Head of Innovation and Commercialisation at SETU, the project is delivered in close collaboration with Professor Bill O'Gorman of Dungarvan Enterprise Centre. BECEE is supported by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), with cross-funding and endorsement from EIT Digital, EIT Climate, EIT Food, and EIT Health. The €1.34 million project brings together four forward-looking higher education institutions - Hanze University of Applied Sciences (Netherlands), Zurich University of Applied Sciences (Switzerland), South East Technological University (Ireland), and Universiteti "Aleksandër Moisiu" Durrës (Albania) - working in tandem with four innovation-driven enterprises: KPN (Eindhoven, Netherlands), Innofuse (Zurich, Switzerland), Dungarvan Enterprise Centre (Ireland), and Linda Laboratory (Durrës, Albania). Speaking about SETU's role, Professor Helen Hughes said, "We are hugely excited by the opportunity to be part of this excellent European consortium furthering innovative solutions, strengthening and supporting our entrepreneurial talent in the region in conjunction with our industrial partner Dungarvan Enterprise Centre. It further strengthens the focus and expertise available within the Department of Land Sciences for entrepreneurship that has been developing across the last decade." The BECEE project will have a tangible impact on regional and national entrepreneurship by developing practical, scalable models to support innovators, start-ups and SMEs. Activities will include training, mentorship, policy development, and new pathways for academic-industry engagement - all contributing to SETU's strategic ambition of connecting for impact. Dr James O'Sullivan noted, "This initiative reflects SETU's deepening commitment to delivering innovation and knowledge exchange across our region, working hand in hand with our enterprise partners to create a more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem." The project is already underway and will roll out activities over the next two years across the partner regions. It aligns strongly with SETU's focus on collaboration, regional development, and addressing key societal challenges through innovation. More information is available at: https://eit-hei.eu/projects/becee/

Trinity College Dublin's Front Square was the site of this morning's official launch of IrelandQCI's Quantum & Answers Trailer, an innovative mobile engagement unit designed to bring quantum technologies to life for the Irish public. The Irish government was represented by Patrick Neary, Assistant Secretary - Communications at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, the co-funder of the IrelandQCI project, who was joined by Professor Linda Doyle, Provost of Trinity College Dublin, Dr Deirdre Kilbane, IrelandQCI Project Lead and Director of Research at the Walton Institute, South East Technological University (SETU), John Regan, Managing Director of ESB Telecoms and IrelandQCI consortium partner and Professor Dan Kilper, Director at CONNECT Research Ireland Centre for Future Networks. IrelandQCI is a €10 million project aiming to build a national quantum infrastructure for Ireland as part of DIGITAL Europe's EuroQCI, an EU-wide quantum communications infrastructure programme. The goal is to secure critical infrastructure against the threat of cybersecurity attacks due to advances in quantum computing power. The EuroQCI initiative is co-funded by the Irish government's Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications and the European Commission and includes 26 EU member states. Led by Walton Institute at SETU on behalf of CONNECT Research Ireland Centre, IrelandQCI is made up of a consortium of academic and industry partners, including six national universities, ESB Telecoms and HEAnet. IrelandQCI is developing a quantum key distribution (QKD) infrastructure along a major network backbone connecting Dublin to Cork via Waterford. This will integrate cutting-edge quantum technologies with existing classical fibre systems to future-proof Ireland's communications networks against cyber threats. A highlight of this initiative is the IrelandQCI Quantum & Answers Trailer - an interactive mobile unit designed to demystify quantum science. Funded by the European Commission and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications and supported by the CONNECT Research Ireland Centre, the trailer features hands-on experiments and interactive demonstrations to help the public better understand quantum concepts and their real-world applications. It also aims to inspire future generations to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Following the official launch, the IrelandQCI Quantum & Answers Trailer remained on display at Trinity College Dublin today engaging students and general public, with quantum demonstrations taking place on board. The Q & A trailer will now embark on a roadshow tour across the country in the year ahead, exhibiting at national and regional events including showcasing at schools, STEM events and industry conferences, with the objective of educating stakeholders on the benefits of quantum communication technologies. At the launch, Patrick Neary, Assistant Secretary - Communications at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications said: "Quantum technologies represent a critical pillar in building Ireland's secure digital future. The launch of the Quantum & Answers Trailer, as part of the IrelandQCI initiative, is a creative and important step in bringing the science behind these innovations to the public. We are proud to support this initiative, which not only educates but also inspires the next generation to engage with these technologies." IrelandQCI Project Lead, Dr Deirdre Kilbane said: ''Today is an exciting day for the IrelandQCI project, as we have been working towards an innovative initiative to raise awareness of the benefits of quantum technologies to the general public in an exciting way. We encourage anyone interested in learning about quantum technologies to follow the movement of the IrelandQCI Q & A Trailer on our social media channels, pose questions to our experts, and visit us at showcase events. With the c...

South East Technological University (SETU) has emerged as the leading technological university in Ireland for securing Horizon Europe research funding, drawing down a total of €12.79 million to date. This milestone positions SETU at the forefront of European-funded research and innovation among Ireland's technological universities. Horizon Europe is the EU's key funding programme for research and innovation, tackling climate change, helping to achieve the UN's Sustainable Development Goals and boosting the EU's competitiveness and growth. SETU's strong performance underlines the University's growing international profile, research excellence and ability to deliver high-impact outcomes in partnership with European collaborators. The €12.79 million drawdown is the result of strategic leadership and expertise across a range of disciplines. SETU's strong Horizon Europe performance is underpinned by contributions from researchers across the university. Among those leading large-scale, EU-funded projects as coordinators are; Dr Deirdre Kilbane, Director of Research, Walton Institute, Dr Indrakshi Dey, Head of the Programmable Autonomous Systems (PAS) Division, Walton Institute, Professor John Wells, Head (Waterford) Faculty of Health Sciences, James Clarke, Strategic EU Liaison Manager, Walton Institute and Gary McManus, Research Project Manager, Walton Institute. Their leadership in coordinating Horizon Europe projects reflects the University's capability to manage complex international consortia and drive innovation on a global scale. In addition to these lead coordinators, many other SETU researchers play vital roles as partners in Horizon Europe projects across a diverse range of thematic areas - from sustainability and health to advanced manufacturing and digital technologies. Each project contributes to SETU's research ambitions and the University's role in shaping regional and international impact through collaborative research. Speaking about the achievement, Prof Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, said, "This remarkable success is a testament to the calibre of our researchers, the strength of our research environment, and SETU's ambition to be a leader in impactful, international collaboration. Horizon Europe funding is highly competitive, and this level of success reflects our capacity to lead major initiatives that deliver real societal and economic value." Prof Marie Claire Van Hout, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Impact at SETU, added, "Horizon Europe is about addressing the world's most pressing challenges - climate action, digital transformation, health equity and more. Our researchers are not just contributing to these solutions - they are leading them. This funding supports SETU's mission to deliver excellent, engaged and inclusive research that serves our region and beyond." Much of SETU's Horizon Europe success is led by the Walton Institute, a principal contributor to research and innovation within the University focused on information and communication technologies. Projects led by the Walton Institute span areas such as artificial intelligence, future networks, and strategic digital transformation, highlighting SETU's strength in future-focused ICT. Dr Kevin Doolin, Executive Director of the Walton Institute, commented, "These most recent results reflect Walton Institute's consistent drive for excellence across multiple EU funding streams, and are a testament to the continued strong performance of Walton staff." In addition to scientific leadership, SETU's project management capacity and international partnerships have played a key role in this success. SETU continues to build strong consortia across Europe, engaging with SMEs, public bodies and community stakeholders to translate research into meaningful outcomes. This latest funding milestone supports SETU's commitment to connecting research to impact and reflects the strength of the university's research themes, particularly in information...

South East Technological University (SETU) is proud to announce that Dr Laurence Fitzhenry, Principal Investigator of the Ocular Therapeutics Research Group (OTRG) in the PMBRC, and Research Group Manager Tess Ames have secured the prestigious INNOVISION COFUND, a €3.1 million collaborative research programme focused on addressing the global challenges of ocular disease and sight loss. This achievement marks a major milestone, with SETU becoming the first Technological University in Ireland to coordinate a Horizon Europe Marie Sklodowska-Curie COFUND programme. Vision impairment is a major and growing global health challenge impacting the quality of life, and overall health of billions of people worldwide. It also places a significant economic burden on individuals, healthcare systems, and societies at large. INNOVISION will tackle this problem across disciplines, departments, and around the world, enabling researchers to take holistic approaches to this problem. "This is a global health crisis that demands urgent, innovative solutions to preserve quality of life for millions. By putting those living with ocular disease at the forefront of research, INNOVISION gives us the opportunity to really address this crisis." Dr Fitzhenry stated. INNOVISION brings together a world-class network of partners, including the University of Iceland and Experimentica (Finland) to recruit highly qualified postdoctoral researchers to tackle the growing concern of ocular disease. Additional collaborators span the globe, notably McMaster University (Canada) and the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus (USA), and patient advocacy organisations Fighting Blindness (Ireland) and the Dry Eye Foundation (USA). Additional network partners include University College Dublin, Queens University Belfast, University of Birmingham, Instituto Superior Tecnico, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Loyola University Chicago, Rowan University, and industry leaders including Bausch+Lomb, SiriusXT, OcuDel, and OcuMedic. Professor Veronica Campbell, SETU President commented, "We are delighted to launch INNOVISION and work with outstanding global partners to tackle this critical challenge. This initiative not only provides a unique opportunity for researchers and industry alike to make a real difference in people's lives, but it demonstrates that SETU and Ireland's South East are a driver of innovative, impactful, and creative research. We are especially pleased to see such strong engagement from industry partners, whose involvement will help ensure that research outcomes translate into real-world solutions for people living with vision impairment." Over the course of the programme, INNOVISION will recruit 12 experienced postdoctoral researchers to work across this global network. These researchers will embark on cutting-edge projects exploring a wide range of topics, including drug delivery, drug discovery, and novel therapeutic approaches to combat vision impairment and blindness. "Industry involvement is a vital part of INNOVISION's mission. We want to continue to grow the network over the next five years, expanding the potential for impact and real-world benefits", says Programme Manager Tess Ames. Companies or other research organisations interested in contributing to or collaborating with the programme are encouraged to reach out to Tess at tess.ames@setu.ie for more information on how to get involved. This project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie COFUND scheme (Grant Agreement No. 101217199). More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upc...

South East Technological University (SETU) and ESB Networks Training were pleased to announce a new collaboration aimed at enhancing the energy sector in Ireland. The collaboration will create learning opportunities, foster innovation, and strengthen industry-academic partnerships in the sector. The collaboration leverages the outstanding strengths and expertise of each partner that will benefit the wider community. This initiative builds on the unique strengths and expertise of both organisations. SETU's Extended Campus, based within the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, began preliminary consultations with ESB Networks Training in August 2024. These discussions have since led to the formation of a dedicated steering group tasked with guiding the partnership. The group's focus is on delivering key outcomes in education, skills development, instructor upskilling, and technological innovation within the energy industry. The collaboration was officially launched this week at the ESB Networks Training Centre in Portlaoise. Speaking at the event, Dr Frances Hardiman, Head (Carlow) of the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, said, "This partnership with ESB Networks Training represents a significant step forward in bridging the gap between academia and industry. By working together, we are not only enhancing learning opportunities but also driving innovation in the energy sector." Anne Meaney, SETU's Head of Extended Campus, added, "Our upskilling programme will be tailored to enhance the teaching and learning skills of ESB Networks instructors, fostering a culture of teaching excellence within the organisation. Alongside this will be the creation of a strong community of practice, to facilitate knowledge-sharing and collaboration. It will be comprised from a network of electrical lecturing staff from SETU, and instructors and subject matter experts from ESB Networks' Training Centre." Keith Kavanagh, Senior Manager, Technical Training and Development at ESB Networks, stated: "At ESB Networks, we are committed to fostering a highly skilled workforce equipped to meet the evolving demands of the energy industry. Our collaboration with SETU will enable us to share expertise, develop cutting-edge training programmes, and ultimately benefit the entire sector." The partnership highlights the shared commitment of SETU and ESB Networks to skills development, education, and technological progress. This ensures a sustainable and innovative future for the energy sector. The partnership will explore new methods of technology-enhanced learning, including blended delivery models and virtual reality applications. One of the steering group's initial priorities is to focus on the development of an SETU-accredited training programme in Electrical Network Operations. Learners enrolled on this programme will be formally registered as SETU students. Upon successful completion, this programme will pave the way for a broader suite of validated training opportunities. Access to vital infrastructure, including high-voltage substations, will provide learners from both organisations with invaluable, hands-on experience in real-world environments - ensuring Ireland's energy workforce is prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Fine Gael Senator Cathal Byrne, who has welcomed a significant €5.57 million funding injection for South East Technological University (SETU). The funding, announced by Minister Patrick O'Donovan, aims to upgrade research equipment and infrastructure, bolstering SETU's capacity to support innovation and meet the evolving R&D needs of Irish industry. Senator Byrne shares what this means for students, researchers, and the wider South East region.

South East Technological University (SETU) proudly hosted the fifth annual Women in Technology event at the SETU Arena in Waterford recently. Designed to empower young women, the event aimed to break down barriers in the tech industry, showcase career opportunities, and highlight relevant courses at SETU. Over 1,100 female students from Cork, Tipperary, Kilkenny, Wexford, and Waterford attended, gaining inspiration from keynote speakers and industry professionals through engaging discussions and one-on-one conversations. Kim McKenzie-Doyle of The Big Idea delivered an insightful keynote address, empowering the young women to think creatively and solve real-world problems by connecting with industry to forge their futures, while RTÉ broadcaster and advocate Zoe Ryan, acted as MC for the event. Guest speakers Rebecca Troy, Associate Engineer at Sun Life, and Zara Grunner, Software Development Engineer at Security Risk Advisors, spoke about their career journeys, emphasising the wealth of opportunities available for women in technology. Leading tech companies from the region also participated, offering students valuable insights into career pathways within the sector. Unum's Business Architect Sarah Adderley facilitated a successful Stemming Ahead workshop with attendees. Amanda Freeman-Gater, Assistant Head of the Computing and Mathematics Department at SETU, highlighted the increasing need for more women in technology. "The tech industry needs more female graduates, and studying the wide range of technological courses available at SETU opens pathways to dynamic careers. Graduates of these courses can take up technical roles that offer flexibility, teamwork, and the chance to develop innovative ideas, services, and products," she said. "Now is the time to nurture the next generation of female tech talent to ensure a more balanced pipeline of professionals. Achieving gender equality in technology is essential - not just for the industry, but for society as a whole," added Ms Freeman-Gater. The event not only challenged perceptions about careers in technology but also showcased the diverse opportunities available in computing, physics, and engineering. Attendees explored exhibitions, interactive technology demonstrations, and insightful discussions led by female industry leaders. They also received information about the wide range of third-level programmes at SETU.

South East Technological University (SETU), in collaboration with the Engineering the South East Cluster (ESE) and its automation sub-group, is proud to announce the launch of an innovative multi-company automation scholarship designed to retain top engineering talent within the region. A recent Higher Education Authority (HEA) report revealed that 62% of engineering students from the southeast region leave to study elsewhere, with a significant impact on the local workforce. In response to this, SETU's Autom8 scholarship initiative aims to attract and support students pursuing automation and robotics engineering careers, while addressing the region's growing demand for skilled professionals in industry. Speaking at the launch of the scholarship, Stephen Rooney, Cluster Manager, Engineering the South East, SETU, said, "The Autom8 scholarship is set to enhance local career opportunities, reduce brain drain, and strengthen industry-academic collaboration. It aligns with SETU's mission to support regional economic growth by fostering a pipeline of skilled graduates who can drive technological innovation in the southeast." The Autom8 scholarship brings together a group of leading manufacturing and automation companies to offer students financial support, industry experience, and professional mentorship throughout their undergraduate studies at SETU. Companies partnering with SETU on this initiative include MSD Ireland, Integer, Teva, Sanofi, and Bausch + Lomb. Edmond Connolly, Manager, South East Regional Skills Forum, said "SETU and Engineering the South East encourage interested second-level students to apply and seize this opportunity to advance their careers in automation engineering within a thriving local industry." The scholarship is open to students enrolling on SETU's Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.) in Automation Engineering (Waterford campus) and the Bachelor of Robotics and Automated Systems (Carlow campus) Each participating company will provide a €2,000 annual contribution towards a student's educational expenses, along with access to paid summer work, a third-year industrial placement, and a dedicated industry mentor. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

In this episode of the podcast, we are joined by poet and essayist Gustav Parker Hibbett whose debut poetry collection, High Jump As Icarus Story was shortlisted for the TS Eliot Prize and the 2025 John Pollard Foundation International Poetry Prize. Nominated for numerous other prizes and published in a wide range of literary magazines, they hold a BA in English from Stanford University and are currently pursuing a PhD in Literary Practice at Trinity College Dublin, where they are an Early Career Research Fellow at the Long Room Hub. Parker gave a talk on their poetry at SETU in March and was interviewed by two final year English students, Chika Dike and Naoise Murphy, who also join the discussion in studio along with Dr Christa de Brún who organised the event. This event was made possible through funding from the National Forum's Strategic Alignment of Teaching Learning Enhancement.

Walton Institute at South East Technological University (SETU), Waterford, has been awarded nearly €350,000 through the prestigious Research Ireland U.S.-Ireland R&D Partnership Programme to lead a pioneering project aimed at enhancing the resilience of future mobile networks. The three-year project, titled NeTS: Small: Fungibility in Mobile Networks for Resilient 6G, is set to redefine how mobile networks operate under disruption, including cyberattacks, technical failures, and natural disasters. Led by Dr. Indrakshi Dey, Head of the Division of Programmable Autonomous Systems (PAS) at Walton Institute, SETU, the project will explore innovative methods for increasing the adaptability and robustness of networks. It is a collaboration with Professor Nicola Marchetti of Trinity College Dublin, the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative (CCI) at Virginia Tech (VT), USA, and the Centre for Wireless Innovation (CWI) at Queen's University Belfast (QUB) in Northern Ireland. This project, funded by Research Ireland, will advance the global conversation on future-proofing mobile communication systems. At its core, the NeTS: Small project focuses on "fungibility", a concept that enables mobile network components to be replaced or reconfigured seamlessly, maintaining network functionality even amid disruptions. This revolutionary approach to network management ensures that, in the event of a cyberattack, technical fault, or natural disaster, mobile networks can reconfigure themselves to maintain connectivity and reliability for users. Dr. Dey, the Principal Investigator, emphasised the significance of the project. "We are pioneering a transformative approach to mobile network resilience. This project is not just about advancing technology; it's a crucial step in ensuring that societies remain connected during crises." Dr Deirdre Kilbane, Director of Research at Walton Institute, SETU says this project is just the beginning of a new era of digital connectivity. "With increasing reliance on mobile communication for everything from daily interactions to critical services, building resilient networks is paramount. This is particularly evident in the wake of recent events like Storm Eowyn, which disrupted electricity and water supplies, underlining the critical importance of robust communication systems." The enhanced resilience of 6G networks will have far-reaching benefits, particularly in times of crisis. The ability to sustain communication lines during disasters is crucial for emergency response teams and the public. The project will contribute to improving national security by ensuring that communication networks can withstand cyber threats and large-scale disruptions, guaranteeing secure channels for government and defence. Technologically, NeTS: Small pushes the boundaries of mobile network capabilities, particularly with the dawn of 6G, which requires ultra-reliable and fast communications. This project promises to offer enhanced network reliability by ensuring that mobile networks continue to function effectively, even in the event of partial failure or attack.

South East Technological University (SETU), in collaboration with Carlow County Council and Carlow Community Enterprise Centres CLG, has launched Station House, a new rural innovation hub in Hacketstown, County Carlow. The initiative is part of SETU's TU RISE programme, designed to strengthen regional enterprise by connecting businesses with university expertise and support. As the only university in the region, SETU is committed to driving research and innovation that delivers real impact. Station House is the first of four rural innovation hubs being developed under TU RISE, creating dedicated spaces for enterprise owners to engage with SETU and its partners. The hub will provide opportunities to develop key skills in areas such as innovation, digitalisation, succession planning, and sustainability. Brian Ogilvie, Head of Entrepreneurship and Rural Engagement at SETU, said: "This initiative offers business owners outside of the main urban areas access to SETU's expertise and support. The hub will play an instrumental role in empowering the area, equipping it with the necessary tools and skills for sustainable growth. SETU is committed to working with industry, ensuring that regional businesses can leverage cutting-edge research and enterprise support to help grow their business." By bringing together university resources, partner organisations, and the expertise of local business owners, Station House will serve as a key asset to the local community. Professor Marie Claire Van Hout, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Impact at SETU, highlighted the hub's role in supporting economic growth: "This endeavour aligns with SETU's mission to drive progress, nurture economic growth, and elevate the competitiveness of the region. Station House is the first of four rural-based hubs which SETU is developing under the TU-RISE initiative in the South East region. SETU's experience in fostering rural innovation has shown that these hubs are more than just spaces; they are catalysts for economic growth, equipping micro, small, and medium enterprises with the skills, technology, and networks needed to compete in an increasingly fast-paced global economy." Station House has been developed through a partnership approach, bringing together key stakeholders to support rural enterprise. Coilín O'Reilly, Chief Executive of Carlow County Council, said: "Enterprise spaces and rural hubs are crucial for fostering entrepreneurship and economic resilience. Carlow County Council is proud to deliver this project in partnership with Carlow Community Enterprise Centres CLG, with funding from the Town & Village Renewal Scheme. This investment has also enabled an exciting collaboration with TU RISE at South East Technological University, strengthening the support ecosystem for enterprise development. Station House is a flagship example of how strategic partnerships can drive meaningful opportunities for rural communities, ensuring businesses have the space, resources, and support to start, scale, and succeed." SETU encourages business owners to take advantage of the opportunities available through Station House and the broader TU RISE initiative. SETU TU RISE is co-financed by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-27. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Inst...

Did you know that women hold a mere 5% of leadership positions in the Irish tech industry[1]? Compared to 24% across all sectors in Ireland[2]? These are staggering statistics. It is widely known that women are significantly underrepresented in the technology sector, particularly in leadership roles. One must ask, is there a stigma preventing women from joining the tech sector? Does the narrative need to change and instead of highlighting the overall meagre sector statistics which creates additional barriers to young girls studying STEM - focus on the organisations who are recognising that talent doesn't choose a gender; talent is earned, developed and honed. A stalwart in the Irish tech sector is Walton Institute at South East Technological University (SETU). With almost 30 years providing R&D support for industry, as well as leading pioneering national and European projects playing a role in technological advancements throughout Europe, Walton is spearheading women in STEM. While the staff of 78 has over 52 male, in the Leadership Team of 12 the scale is tipped with 8 women at the centre of the strategic direction of the organisation. The Institute has four research divisions all led by women. Of these, three have been promoted from within over recent years, including the Institute's Director of Research. Having joined in 2018 as a research fellow, Dr Deirdre Kilbane quickly became Head of Division in 2020 before being appointed as Director of Research in 2022. The following year, her outstanding performance leading the strategic IrelandQCI project earned her the designation of the quantum communication expert for Ireland. Dr Frances Cleary and Catherine Cunniffe joined the organisation in its early days and have played a pivotal role in the growth of Walton Institute. They have seen the digital transformation of industries and technologies and are at the forefront of identifying innovative solutions for companies. Dr Lizy Abraham joined Walton Institute in 2021 and became head of division in 2024 where she drives impactful research in emerging areas while nurturing and developing early-stage researchers alongside Dr Indrakshi Dey who has a lengthy CV of accomplishments along with her fellow heads of division. Herein lies another question: how can Walton Institute have a leadership team where two-thirds are women? If the Institute, based within SETU, must follow strict public sector recruitment policies to ensure equality and fairness to all candidates, why can't private sector entities naturally improve their gender balance? Instead of promoting a woman because an organisation needs to fulfil gender balance obligations, it should be that women are rightly promoted because they deserve it. We are seeing a generational shift of a woman's role in society. The rise in female participation in the labour force in 2024 reached a record high of 61.6% which may be partly attributed to the increased flexibility offered by hybrid working models.[3] Additionally, organisations adopting a fully flexible, hybrid model sees a significant 34% of senior leaders being women, compared to 29% in office-based roles. [4] This is the key to Walton's success, not only in their approach to research but also by offering staff a flexible approach to their working week. The directors recognise that life can't be put on hold while at work. Trust is instilled in the team, and it is repaid with dedication and success. Since its inception, the incredible team of researchers collaborate with 850 partners globally and have secured over €756m in total project funding. In 2024 alone, the total project value was €52m, of that Walton directly received €8.1m. The unwavering dedication is clear from these figures and is to be celebrated. Gender equality at a leadership level in Walton Institute, SETU, isn't an ongoing topic of conversation, it has been an organic, natural progression of the Institute. However, this unique position within the research-tech sect...

This episode of the podcast follows on from a visit by the author Jan Carson to Waterford as part of the Creative Ireland Shared Island initiative. This project is a collaboration between Mid and East Antrim Borough Councils and Waterford City and County Council who are aiming to develop and enhance a shared sense of community through various means, one of which is creativity and literature. Jan gave a talk at SETU, entitled, “Untangling the Knots of Northern Identity” which explored her identity as a Northern Protestant who identifies as an Irish writer. Jan's novel The Raptures was published in 2022 and was shortlisted for the An Post Irish Novel of the Year award and the Kerry Group Novel of the Year. Her novel The Fire Starters won the 2019 EU Prize for Literature for Ireland. She has written a number of short story collections, and her writing has been featured on BBC Radio 3 and 4, and on RTÉ. She has most recently worked alongside Duke Special in adapting The Velveteen Rabbit for the stage and the run begins this month at the Lyric Theatre, Belfast. Her next novel, Few and Far Between, will be released next year.The episode also features Katherine Collins, the Creative Ireland Coordinator in Waterford who discusses the value of the Shared Island project and the power of the arts in helping us to understand one another better.

Neste episódio analisamos o investimento "histórico” de dois mil milhões de euros da CALB em Sines e o potencial interesse de outros investidores arrastados pelos chineses. Olhamos ainda para o projeto da Galp com a Northvolt para uma refinaria de lítio em Setúbal que acabou por cair e o atual estado do projeto da mina de Boticas, explorada pela Savannah Resources. Na segunda parte, avaliamos as possíveis respostas da União Europeia às tarifas de Trump e os impactos para a região. Com a jornalista Bárbara Silva e o editor de Economia Paulo Ribeiro Pinto. Diogo Mendo Fernandes é o anfitrião.

In this episode, Jenny is joined by Dr Hazel Farrell and Dr Don O'Neill of the Sustainability in the Arts Festival to talk about winning the Strategic Alignment of Teaching and Learning Enhancement (SATLE) Impact Award and to offer an overview of this year's festival, which will take place from 7th – 11th April. The SATLE Impact prize money of €25,000 will help to expand the work of the previous two festivals  which involved multidisciplinary collaborations between undergraduate and postgraduate students from a variety of disciplines across the Faculty of Arts and Humanities such as Music, Visual Art, Graphic Design, Culinary Arts, Languages and Internationalisation. The aim of the festival is for students to explore the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals and the event will take place across all SETU campuses in Waterford, Carlow and Wexford.

This very special episode features members of the English and Theatre Studies teaching team at SETU who share their innovative approaches to teaching and research. In studio with Jenny are Dr Kate McCarthy, Dr Christa de Brún, Dr Úna Kealy, Dr Helena Walsh-Kiely and Deirdre Grant who each bring a variety of skills and to their roles. During the episode, we discuss approaches to teaching and learning, the team's ongoing research and creative work, and what we love about our jobs and our students!

Are you interested in studying computing but feel a bit daunted by entering a field that can seem overwhelming? As professional computer science educators, we are often asked questions by prospective students about what's actually involved in studying computing, the types of roles one can expect after graduating, the skills a student needs, and more. For this episode, we tried to distil some of those common questions into a podcast. If you're someone who thinks computing is only for math wizards and “hardcore” programmers, this is the podcast for you! (Spoiler alert: The answer is NO!) We discuss tech innovation and how ethical IT professionals can have a positive impact on the world. We also explore the hidden perks of IT careers, beyond the good salaries. Join Amanda Freeman-Gater, TJ McDonald, and Rob O'Connor - all from the Department of Computing and Mathematics at SETU - for an easy-to-follow conversation on why you should study computing. Useful Links: Articles Careers Portal – Information Technology https://careersportal.ie/sectors/sectors.php?sector_id=8 Brightwater Salary Survey 2024 https://online.flippingbook.com/view/692494949/ Technological university graduates more likely to be employed after leaving college (Irish Times) https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/education/2024/12/19/technological-university-graduates-more-likely-to-be-employed-after-leaving-college/ The highest paying sectors for new graduates (BusinessPlus) https://businessplus.ie/business-insights/highest-paid-graduates/   Courses BSc (Hons) in Computer Science (SE600) https://www.setu.ie/courses/bsc-hons-in-computer-science-common-entry BSc (Hons) in Software Systems Development https://www.setu.ie/courses/bsc-hons-in-software-systems-development BSc (Hons) in Computer Forensics and Security (SE602) https://www.setu.ie/courses/bsc-hons-in-computer-forensics-and-security BSc (Hons) in Creative Computing https://www.setu.ie/courses/bsc-hons-in-creative-computing BSc in Information Technology https://www.setu.ie/courses/bsc-in-information-technology BSc in Creative Computing  https://www.setu.ie/courses/bsc-in-creative-computing BSc in Software Systems Development https://www.setu.ie/courses/bsc-in-software-systems-development Personal profiles Amanda Freeman-Gater https://www.setu.ie/staff/amanda-freeman-gater TJ McDonald https://www.setu.ie/staff/tj-mcdonald Robert O'Connor https://www.setu.ie/staff/robert-oconnor

Robert Frede Kenter is a multiple Pushcart-nominated poet,  a BOTN nominee, a writer of experimental prose, a performer, an editor, a visual artist, a multiple grant recipient, book designer & EIC/Publisher of Ice Floe Press (www.icefloepress.net). Books include FATHER TECTONIC (forthcoming, Ethel Zine Press, 2025), & hybrid collections, EDEN (2021), & Audacity of Form (Ice Floe Press, 2019). Robert's in many anthologies incl. Shine #1 (2024 publ. by Samantha Terrell), Kireji /Cutting Words (Nun Prophet Press, 2024), After Hours: Beat Culture Made New (Broken Spine Press, 2024).  The Book of Penteract (Penteract Press, 2022), Seeing in Tongues (Steel Incisors, 2023), Reformatting the Pain Scale (Olney Books, 2023), Glisk and Glimmer (Sidhe Press, 2023), Deep Time #1 (Black Bough Press, 2021),  & numerous Fevers Of The Mind anthologies incl.: The Chelsea Underground (2023) for John Cale, Warhol & the Factory. Recent journals: Cable Street, Harpy Hybrid, Storms Journal, Cutbow Q, Street Cake,  Feral, Erato, Setu, WatchYrHead, Visual Verse, & others. Robert contributed poetry to the recent 40th anniversary exhibition for the band, Bronski Beat (UK).   

On 13 November, South East Technological University (SETU) proudly welcomed early career researchers to the third PROMOTE Project training session, an initiative involving four partner universities to provide guidance on career progression for female researchers at the early stages of their careers. The event aimed to showcase the wealth of skills and experience researchers bring to diverse sectors, both within and outside academia, and to inspire attendees to explore a range of career opportunities. Dr Allison Kenneally, Vice President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at SETU, opened the session by underscoring the importance of retaining women in research and emphasised the transformative role of the PROMOTE project. She encouraged participants to engage with the PROMOTE online platform and reflected on the critical role of mentorship, including peer-to-peer mentoring, throughout a research career. A career panel offered valuable insights into the professional journeys of its members, illustrating how academic research experience can shape varied career paths. Panellists, including Dr Geraldine Canny, Dr Aisling O'Neill, Dr Denise McGrath, Dr Luciana Herda, and Dr Blanca Suarez-Bilbao, discussed key topics such as identifying personal values and goals, balancing work with family life, and practical strategies for working parents. The importance of mentoring, networking, and leveraging available supports was also highlighted. Reflecting on the event, Dr. Geraldine Canny, Head of Research at SETU, stated, "The PROMOTE training session exemplifies our commitment to fostering an inclusive research environment. By equipping early career female researchers with the necessary tools and networks, we are paving the way for a more equitable and innovative research community." Dr Michael Scriney from the Insight Research Ireland Centre for Data Analytics at Dublin City University provided an overview of the PROMOTE online platform. The platform offers early career researchers access to career progression resources, networking opportunities, and support, all designed to empower researchers in advancing their careers. The event also featured a career skills workshop on transferable skills, led by SETU's HR Business Partner for Research, Eimear Fitzpatrick. The session focused on translating research skills for new sectors and crafting compelling applications. Eimear shared practical advice, emphasising the importance of presenting research experience in a format that resonates with employers, ensuring researchers feel confident and prepared for new opportunities. The day concluded with in-person networking, interactive discussions, and resource-sharing to foster a supportive culture as researchers transition to the next phase of their professional lives. The PROMOTE project is funded by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and supported by the Insight SFI Research Centre for Data Analytics. Partner institutions include Maynooth University (MU), South East Technological University (SETU), Munster Technological University (MTU), University of Limerick (UL), Dublin City University (DCU), University College Cork (UCC), and the University of Galway. Together, these partners are championing the call to #promotewomen and #buildthenetwork online. The project is coordinated by Christine O'Sullivan, PROMOTE Project Manager, Maynooth University.

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South East Technological University (SETU) proudly hosted the highly anticipated launch of TU RISE (TU Research and Innovation Supporting Enterprise) on Wednesday, 20 November, at SETU's Cork Road Campus. The event brought together industry leaders, academics, and policymakers to celebrate the transformative impact of TU RISE and its role in driving regional development. SETU President Professor Veronica Campbell's welcoming address highlighted the University's commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration through TU RISE. Prof. Marie Claire Van Hout, SETU's Vice President for Research, Innovation and Impact, followed with a strategic overview of the initiative, underlining its importance in enhancing SETU's engagement with regional enterprises. Prof. Campbell said, "The launch of TU RISE today represents not just a new initiative but a bold step forward in our collective journey toward excellence, opportunity, and impact. "The launch of TU RISE is a defining moment for SETU, but it is also an invitation: an invitation to all of us to step forward and be part of something greater. As we continue to build and grow this initiative, we must remember that it is only through collaboration, curiosity, and bold thinking that we will achieve the transformative impact we seek." Dr Geraldine Canny provided attendees with insights into TU RISE offerings, outlining the opportunities it presents for businesses and researchers. A highlight of the event was a round-table discussion on regional development and the critical role research plays in driving economic growth. Facilitated by Prof. Felicity Kelliher, the discussion featured leading experts, including Prof. Dominique Foray from EPFL, Dr James O'Sullivan, Head of Innovation and Commercialisation at SETU, and Louise Grubb, entrepreneur and director at Trivium Vet. Attendees also benefitted from thought-provoking presentations, including: • Dr Patrick Lynch's introduction to the TU RISE Digital Masterclass. • Ed Murphy of Greentech HQ, who shared actionable insights on adopting sustainability in regional companies. • Dr Laurence Fitzhenry and the OTRG team, who detailed their successful collaboration with Bausch + Lomb. • Michael Flynn of FLI Global, who spoke about his experience working with SETU on collaborative projects. The event was attended by a wide range of regional companies, SETU academics and staff, as well as representatives from regional development agencies and the Southern Regional Assembly. TU RISE is co-financed by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-27.

Sharon Horgan of ‘Bad Sisters' fame has been doing the rounds for their new season and sparked some interest when she introduced the Irish phrase “Gee” on the Late Show with Stephen Colbert to an audience who had never heard it before.So what are other Irish slang and phrases we adore, and why do we Irish have so many sayings?Joining Kieran to discuss is Edward Hayden, TV Chef and Culinary Lecturer at SETU and Claire Ronan, Broadcaster.Image: Apple

South East Technological University (SETU) is thrilled to announce its role in the ambitious EVEREST project. Led by the University College Dublin (UCD), the project is a collaboration of 21 institutions from 11 countries, focused on harnessing the potential of extracellular vesicles (EVs) to transform biomedical research. With a €1.3 million budget funded through the prestigious Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) programme under Horizon Europe, the project will commence in January 2025 and continue over a four-year period. Extracellular vesicles are small, cell-derived particles that serve as messengers between cells, carrying proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids essential for intercellular communication. By standardising methods for isolating and characterising these vesicles, EVEREST aims to leverage their potential for non-invasive diagnostics and personalised treatments, enabling more precise and effective interventions for complex diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular conditions. Prof Marie Claire Van Hout, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Impact at SETU, highlighted the significance of the project for the university: "The EVEREST project exemplifies SETU's commitment to advancing impactful research that can improve lives globally. Through collaboration with leading institutions and industry partners, we are contributing to innovative biomedical solutions that hold the potential to change the landscape of diagnostics and treatment. This is an exciting opportunity to showcase SETU's research capacity on an international stage." SETU's Ocular Therapeutics Research Group (OTRG), led by Dr Laurence Fitzhenry, is excited to contribute to this interdisciplinary initiative. Reflecting on the project, Dr Fitzhenry shared, "EVEREST provides a platform for researchers to develop valuable scientific skills while actively advancing transformative treatment options for those affected by challenging diseases. Our team is looking forward to expanding our expertise and collaborating with a consortium that spans multiple disciplines and industries." The EVEREST consortium unites leading academic and non-academic partners, with academic collaborators including University College Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, and Queen's University Belfast, among others across Europe. Industry partners such as SiriusXT, Bioreperia, and Fox Biosystems bring critical commercial perspectives, ensuring a robust approach from fundamental research to practical applications. Prof Breandan Kennedy and Dr Yolanda Alvarez, project leaders with significant experience managing European projects like CRYSTAL3 and 3D-NEO-NET, will ensure the project's effective progress. EVEREST will benefit greatly from the MSCA Staff Exchange programme, which promotes international collaboration, knowledge transfer, and innovation, with the goal of generating solutions to some of healthcare's most pressing global challenges. Through EVEREST, SETU and its partners are set to push the boundaries of biomedical science, leveraging extracellular vesicles to advance early diagnostics and pave the way for future treatment breakthroughs. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

South East Technological University (SETU) lecturer in aerospace engineering, Dr Mark Wylie, and SETU postgraduate researcher, Theeba Shafeeg, were delighted to witness the launch of NASA's SpaceX's 31st commercial resupply services mission from the Kennedy Space Center at approximately 2:30am GMT on 5 November. The mission includes studies of solar wind, a radiation-tolerant moss, spacecraft materials, and a cold-welding experiment for space applications. Contributions have been made from an international team of researchers, with SETU's Dr Wylie and Ms Shafeeg working on the cold-welding experimental payload as part of the ASTROBEAT project; a project financed by Xjenza Malta through the Space Upstream Programme. ASTROBEAT marks the first investigation of the cold-welding phenomenon for use in spacecraft hull repair following a hypervelocity impact by space debris or micrometeorite. This morning's launch saw an experimental test rig being sent for testing and qualification, at TRL 6, on the International Space Station (Bishop Module) for a 3-month period. Astrobeat investigates the use of cold welding to repair perforations in the outer shell or hull of a spacecraft from the inside. Some micrometeoroids and space debris traveling at hyper velocities could perforate the outer surfaces of spacecraft, possibly jeopardizing mission success or crew safety. The ability to repair impact damage from inside a spacecraft may be more efficient and safer for crew members. The project will also improve knowledge about the range of applications of cold-welding for terrestrial uses as well. SETU's Dr Mark Wylie, lecturer in aerospace engineering with postgraduate researcher, Theeba Shafeeg. Both Dr Wylie and Ms Shafeeg, through their collaboration with Dr Leonardo Barilaro of Malta College of Arts, Science & Technology (MCAST), worked on the mechanical design of the cold-welding experiment. This 1U payload will remotely actuate several spring-loaded chambers to yield material samples into one another. A novel method to measure the weld onset using a custom milli-ohm meter will be tested. Embedded cameras will also monitor the experiment. Speaking about the importance of the research, Dr Wylie commented, "This is a paradigm shift in the way space engineers and agencies will view cold-welding. It was considered as a detrimental effect of the space environment, causing unwanted fusion and locking of deployable mechanisms. Instead, this new approach exploits this low temperature fusion phenomenon for spacecraft repair." Dr Wylie continued, "This is a momentous occasion for SETU to have contributed to a pan-European project that will both further specialist knowledge in this field but also demonstrates the design, manufacturing, and qualification of an open-source experimental payload that can be developed into other space bound materials experiments by others. I was delighted for Theeba to get an opportunity to demonstrate her research in-situ at such an early stage. It will provide a unique opportunity to gather data in the space environment." Theeba Shafeeg, whose research calculations are being employed in the project, said, "I'm very grateful to my supervisor, Dr Mark Wylie, for the opportunity to contribute to the ASTROBEAT project. This project forms a chapter of my ongoing PhD research on 'An Investigation into Cold-welding in the Space Environment' here at SETU. It is exciting to see the research develop into a real-world project within the space industry and it's been an incredible experience overall." The SETU and MCAST teams will also collaborate with the Centre of Studies and Activities for Space (CISAS) "G. Colombo" of the University of Padova and the Skyup Academy, Italy, for the second phase of this research project. Moreover, MCAST started a prestigious collaboration with NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), facilitated by H.E. Ambassador of Malta in UAE, Madam Maria Camilleri Calleja.

Coming out of our latest Computing Week on campus in SETU, Rob spoke with two members of the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau – Detective Sergeant Eoin O'Connell and Detective Noel O'Gorman. They spoke about the work of the Bureau, how cybercrime threats have evolved over the past few years and what individual and organisations can do to help protect themselves. TRIGGER WARNING: the podcast includes discussion of offences around online sexual abuse and child pornography. The conversation is not graphic but listeners may want to exercise discretion.   By an amazing coincidence, in the period from when the interview was recorded and published, SETU has been the victim of a cyberattack. At the time of podcast publication, all systems on the Waterford campus are offline and the site is under active investigation. So the podcast is particularly timely for the SETU community …   For more information on the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau, please visit https://www.garda.ie/en/about-us/organised-serious-crime/garda-national-cyber-crime-bureau-gnccb-/ To keep up to date with The Machine or for any follow-ups, you can contact Rob via the SETU website https://www.setu.ie/staff/robert-oconnor

[This episode which we released on September 12 for Premium subscribers of The Ken on The Ken's app and on Apple Podcasts is now available to listen for free for a limited time. Stream the full episode on Spotify, Amazon Music , Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your podcasts.]It seems like ‘invite only' is a rite of passage for Stripe. If Stripe entered India with an invite-only step, then it seems reasonable to assume that it's leaving India on the basis that it's doing invite-only again. Over seven years, Stripe, the world's mightiest fintech, currently valued at $70 billion (and at $95 billion at its peak), could not make a dent in India. It had a great product, a massive untapped opportunity in India, and didn't have much competition. And yet, it failed. Why? There's an internet quip that was quite popular until recently. The Amazon of China is Alibaba, the Uber of China is Didi, and the Google of China is Baidu, the Apple of China is Xiaomi. In India, the thinking was : Amazon of India is Amazon, the Uber of India is Uber, the Google of India is Google, and the Apple of India is Apple. In today's episode of  Two by Two, we discussed why Stripe couldn't become the Stripe of India.And to discuss this, hosts Praveen Gopal Krishnan Rohin Dharmakumar were joined by two guests.Arundhati Ramanathan, Deputy Editor at The Ken. Arundhati is India's preeminent Fintech reporter, and she's demonstrated it over a career of 8 years at The Ken.Our second guest is Vikram Bhat. Vikram is one of India's most accomplished Product leaders, he was in product leadership roles at Myntra, Abof, Ekstep Foundation, LendingKart, Capillary Technologies, Goodworker, and most recently CPO at Setu, which is a fintech company that enables API-based infrastructure for financial services.Welcome to episode nine of Two by Two, The Ken's weekly podcast that asks the most interesting and often uncomfortable questions on topics we all want to know more about. And we do that through the lens of a 2×2 matrix!You can also sign up for the Two by Two newsletter for free. Each week you'll get to read a “storified” version of that week's episode.This episode of Two by Two was produced by Anushka Mukherjee. Hari Krishna is the lead writer and researcher for this episode. Rajiv C N, our resident sound engineer is the audio producer.Write to us twobytwo@the-ken.com and tell us what you think of the show.Please rate, share and follow us on your favorite streaming platform. It helps more like-minded people like you to find out by Two by Two.

Eirmersive, the voice of the Irish Immersive Technology sector, launched its network at a special event on the 11th of September at the O'Reilly Theatre, Belvedere College, Dublin. This event marked a significant milestone for the sector, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to celebrate the achievements of Irish immersive technology companies and set the stage for future growth. Dara Calleary TD, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, was present to officially launch the Eirmersive network, met with the Irish Immersive companies demoing at the event, and addressed the large audience about the recognition from the government of the importance of the Irish Immersive Technology sector. The event, titled OUTWARD, showcased the ambition and global reach of Ireland's Immersive Technology sector, where 80% of businesses were already exporting their innovative solutions worldwide. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with immersive technology demonstrations, heard success stories, and learned about the latest developments in the industry. Eirmersive envisions Ireland becoming a global hub for immersive technology by 2030, capitalising on the country's rich IT and creative talent. With an estimated global growth of €800 billion by 2030 and a potential 860,000 new jobs created by 2025, this launch event represented a pivotal moment for Ireland's digital future. The evening featured a keynote address by Michael Barngrover, Managing Director of XR4Europe, an influential industry association actively shaping the future of virtual worlds in Europe. Michael provided an overview of the European landscape, including key strategies such as the Finnish Metaverse Strategy and the EU Virtual World initiatives, highlighting opportunities for Irish companies to engage with and benefit from these initiatives. The Embassy of Finland was also in attendance. The event featured Lightning Talks from end-users of Immersive Technology Solutions built by Irish Immersive companies: • Dafydd Hall Williams, Artistic Director of Ulster Touring Opera, spoke about how Belfast-based company Ulster Touring Opera harnessed the technology developed by Dublin-based immersive technology company Volograms. Dafydd covered two specific use cases where Volograms' volumetric capture technology played a central role: AR Don Giovanni and the Yardmen Trail AR Stories app. • Ger Corbett, Chief Executive Officer at Sandyford Business District, spoke about the implementation and use of a VR digital twin of Sandyford for the EU project, IB-Green, which was all about greening strategies for industrial areas of cities that were traditionally poorly served by public amenity green spaces. • Mary Walsh O'Shea, Adult Education Officer responsible for Certified Training & Adult Education Guidance Service at WWETB, spoke about using Virtual Reality for Immersive Healthcare Simulations with PulseXR built by Emagine. The Immersive Education Working Group, supported by Meta, also presented during the event. This group had been developing recommendations for the Irish government on integrating Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and Mixed Reality into educational curricula at all levels. Their work highlights successful use cases from Ireland and explored how immersive learning could enhance education, upskilling, and professional training. Dualta Ó Broin, Director of Public Policy from Meta, spoke of their strategic ongoing support to Eirmersive while Dr Zeta Dooly from SETU detailed the Key recommendations from the working group. The evening concluded with demonstrations from a dozen immersive technology solutions developed by Irish companies, offering attendees an opportunity to explore the innovative ways in which immersive technology was being applied across industries. Eirmersive is supported by the Creative Ireland Programme and benefits from Government funding as part of the Digital Creative Industries Roadmap 2024-2026...

It seems like ‘invite only' is a rite of passage for Stripe. If Stripe entered India with an invite-only step, then it seems reasonable to assume that it's leaving India on the basis that it's doing invite-only again. Over seven years, Stripe, the world's mightiest fintech, currently valued at $70 billion (and at $95 billion at its peak), could not make a dent in India. It had a great product, a massive untapped opportunity in India, and didn't have much competition. And yet, it failed. Why? There's an internet quip that was quite popular until recently. The Amazon of China is Alibaba, the Uber of China is Didi, and the Google of China is Baidu, the Apple of China is Xiaomi. In India, the thinking was : Amazon of India is Amazon, the Uber of India is Uber, the Google of India is Google, and the Apple of India is Apple. In today's episode of Two by Two, we discussed why Stripe couldn't become the Stripe of India.And to discuss this, hosts Rohin Dharmakumar and Praveen Gopal Krishnan were joined by two guests.Arundhati Ramanathan, Deputy Editor at The Ken. Arundhati is India's preeminent Fintech reporter, and she's demonstrated it over a career of 8 years at The Ken.Our second guest is Vikram Bhat. Vikram is one of India's most accomplished Product leaders, he was in product leadership roles at Myntra, Abof, Ekstep Foundation, LendingKart, Capillary Technologies, Goodworker, and most recently CPO at Setu, which is a fintech company that enables API-based infrastructure for financial services.Welcome to episode nine of Two by Two, The Ken's weekly podcast that asks the most interesting and often uncomfortable questions on topics we all want to know more about. And we do that through the lens of a 2×2 matrix!You can listen to the full conversation on The Ken App or Apple PodcastsThis episode of Two by Two was produced by Anushka Mukherjee. Hari Krishna is the lead writer and researcher for this episode. Rajiv C N, our resident sound engineer is the audio producer.Please rate, share and follow us on your favorite streaming platform. It helps more like-minded people like you to find out by Two by Two.

Two South East Technological University (SETU) researchers have secured significant funding under the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine's (DAFM) latest Thematic Research Call. In July 2024, Minister Martin Heydon TD, Minter of State with special responsibility for Research and Development at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), announced funding of €22.3 million for 21 new research projects. SETU researchers Dr Imelda Casey and Mr Kieran Sullivan have been awarded over €400,000 in funding under the call, which aims to support innovative research across various agricultural domains. Announcing the funding at an event held in Farmleigh House, Minister Martin Heydon TD stated, "Today I am announcing €22.3 million in grant aid for 21 new research projects arising from my department's 2023 Thematic Research Call. This will see research work being conducted across a wide range of areas, including low emissions dairy production, carbon sequestration in agricultural soils, developing farmland nature credits, optimising oat production and processing for healthy foods, assessing the impact of deer in forestry, advancing the Irish wool sector, sustainable packaging materials, and improving shelf life of dairy products, among others." Dr Imelda Casey, from SETU's Department of Land Sciences, is part of a project entitled 'Zero Zero; Low-emissions dairy production without fertiliser N or herbicides'. This project, led by James Humphreys of Teagasc in collaboration with SETU and the University of Galway, has been allocated €184,160. The project aims to extend the findings of the DAFM LOCAM project onto farms, to develop a low-emissions blueprint for fragmented dairy farms, seeking to enhance sustainability within the dairy industry by reducing dependency on synthetic fertilisers and herbicides. Dr Casey is pictured here with Prof Veronica Campbell, SETU President in September 2023, when she won the SETU Research Excellence award in the "Research Impact Award- policy and practice" category. Mr Kieran Sullivan, from the Walton Institute at SETU, is part of the AgNav project team. This collaborative effort is led by Teagasc and involves SETU, Bord Bia, the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) and is focused on creating a farmer-centric sustainability support framework. Led by Dr Indrakshi Dey, the Walton Institute will receive €225,723 to develop a disruptive framework for data analysis, interoperability and resilient data spaces to help the agricultural sector meet Climate Action Plan targets. The project team, which also includes Walton Institute colleague Christine O'Meara, will develop a toolkit of tailored farm sustainability support and solutions for Irish farmers. Speaking about the funding announcement, Dr Geraldine Canny, SETU Head of Research, said, "I wish to congratulate Dr Imelda Casey, Mr Kieran Sullivan, Dr Indrakshi Dey, and their project partners on this significant funding award. I'm excited to witness the transformative impact these projects will have on the agricultural sector. Sustainability in agriculture is a pressing issue, and these pioneering initiatives are crucial in advancing agricultural practices, particularly in climate mitigation, adaptation, and sustainable farming."

Today is World Youth Skills Day and this guest post by Gavin Downey, Senior Systems Engineer, Datapac is very apt. While some people grow up knowing exactly what they want to do in life, most people don't. As one of those people, I followed a somewhat unconventional route into the technology industry. I had an interest in technology from a young age, which began by stealing my older sister's VTech at two. I was always curious to know how things worked, and often broke things so that I could fix them to find out (much to my parents' dismay). Looking back, my primary school was ahead of the curve and in the mid-90s, we were taught how to build a website - which can still be found today. Throughout secondary school, my love for technology grew. I was not academically inclined and found school otherwise boring but, as an Information Age School, it was one of few schools at the time to offer Computer Science as a Leaving Cert subject. I was lucky to have a teacher who nurtured my interest in IT, and I was actively encouraged to take it on. From here, I went on to third level but was unsure of the career path I wanted to take. I took up a portfolio course in photography but soon realised that it was the gadgets and the equipment that piqued my interest more than the photography itself, and made a lateral move into studying multimedia in WIT (now SETU). Part of this course was work placement within a business and, while simply looking for some interview experience, I went along to an interview with Datapac (despite the fact that I had no academic background in IT and, like any good party crasher, without a suit). However, I spoke about my journey so far and mentioned that I had built a server in my spare time. The team was ultimately impressed with this obvious passion for tech and the fact that I had taken on learning materials external to my course. Even though I was in the "wrong" course, I was thrilled to be offered the work placement. It gave me a real insight into a small part of what is such a huge industry. It took almost my entire work experience just to work out what area of IT I was working in. Any time I told someone I was working in IT, they would ask whether I was developing apps. Now, I have been with Datapac for 12 years. In my current role as Senior Systems Engineer, I work closely with customers to develop problem-solving technological solutions to their business challenges. Rather than taking things apart, I'm now building them up. A big misconception is that IT is all about programming and highly-technical software, and I'm keen to show that there's much more to it with many other avenues to pursue. Building a successful career in technology doesn't necessarily need to be a vertical climb and can start in one place while ending up somewhere entirely different. Real-world, hands-on experience is key and I believe you learn the most from those around you, as everyone tackles a problem or comes up with a solution differently. However, certifications are also hugely important in an industry that moves at pace, and I sit more exams now than I did during college. College is the way to get in the door, but industry-recognised certification is the way into the lift to start making your way up to the top floor. Technology is an industry that has been growing exponentially over the past number of years and as it evolves, is a continuous learning curve. To anyone considering a career in tech, my advice is to grasp every opportunity available. Each experience is a learning experience and don't be afraid to take risks - they will ultimately pay off. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at S...

South East Technological University (SETU) is pleased to announce the introduction of 10 scholarships under the Technological University Research and Innovation Supporting Enterprise (TU RISE) programme. These prestigious scholarships will be funded for four years and represent a significant investment in research and innovation, reflecting SETU's commitment to fostering academic excellence and pioneering research. The overall purpose of the TU RISE PhD scholarship programmes is to promote high-quality, innovative research and provide research and development training for highly skilled graduates leading to the award of a PhD and to support the increase in PhD numbers at SETU, in line with national and European priorities. Dr Geraldine Canny, Head of Research at SETU, commented on the significance of these scholarships, saying that "SETU is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and driving innovation. The TU RISE PhD Scholarships are a testament to our commitment to supporting the next generation of researchers. By providing these scholarships, we are not only investing in the future of our postgraduates but also in the future of research that will have a profound impact on society." The TU RISE PhD Scholarships support research across a diverse range of disciplines, including science, technology, engineering, and humanities. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that SETU continues to lead in research that addresses global challenges and drives societal progress. The generous stipend & scholarship fees provide financial support for living expenses, enabling PhD students to fully engage in their research, while the research funding acts as a contribution to conducting high-quality research, including access to state-of-the-art facilities and technology. Dr Canny further added, "These scholarships are not just about funding; they are about creating an environment where innovative ideas can flourish. We are committed to providing our PhD students with the mentorship, resources, and opportunities they need to become leaders in their fields. The TU RISE PhD Scholarships are a critical component of our 'Connecting for Impact' strategy to enhance SETU's research capabilities and to contribute meaningfully to the global body of knowledge." The establishment of the TU RISE PhD Scholarships marks a significant milestone for SETU, reinforcing its position as a leading research institution. SETU invites talented postgraduates from all backgrounds to apply and join a vibrant community dedicated to academic excellence and innovation. About South East Technological University (SETU): South East Technological University (SETU) is a dynamic and forward-thinking institution committed to academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement. SETU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Through strategic partnerships and a focus on research, SETU aims to address societal challenges and contribute to sustainable development. For more information about the TU RISE PhD Scholarships and application details, please visit www.setu.ie/research-innovation/tu-rise.

Quantum technology specialists from across Europe are gathering at the Camden Court Hotel in Dublin city this week for a 3-day conference organised by the IrelandQCI Project Leads at Walton Institute in South East Technological University (SETU). Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, with special responsibility for Communications and Circular Economy, Ossian Smyth T. D., was delighted to address attendees today, Tuesday, 2 July 2024, an audience made up of representatives from the European Commission, European Space Agency and technology specialists from across Irish and European industry and academia. The €10m Ireland Quantum Communications Infrastructure (QCI) project, almost one and a half years into its 30 month duration, is one of several EuroQCI projects across the European Union which sees the European Commission working with 27 Member States, as well as the European Space Agency, towards the deployment of a secure quantum communication infrastructure spanning the EU. The €10m project, co-funded by the European Commission and the Irish government's Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, is working to create an innovative quantum technology ecosystem, future-proofing Ireland's communications infrastructure against cyber-attacks. The IrelandQCI team is working to establish Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) infrastructure along a major network backbone from Dublin to Cork via Waterford using a quantum channel integrated with existing classical fibre systems. The project will trial 16 quantum security technology scenarios with key stakeholders across the general public, industry and academic sectors over the project duration. This week's QCI Ireland event in Dublin spans 3 days of industry and academic stakeholder engagement, workshops, training and technology specialist addresses from representatives of the European Commission's PETRUS network - the organisation coordinating the deployment of EuroQCI - and will see over 150 attendees each day. Opening remarks today were delivered by John Regan, Managing Director of ESB Telecoms, who then introduced Ossian Smyth T.D. who commented on the importance of the IrelandQCI project and Ireland's fantastic collaborative efforts with the EU and wider EuroQCI territories. Minister Smyth said, 'I'm delighted that the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications is co-funding the IrelandQCI project with the European Commission. With the creation of a secure communication network, this project represents a major step forward in our ability to protect and encrypt communications. Working collaboratively with European partners through the EuroQCI initiative is a key pillar of the project and I'm glad to see members of other European QCI projects in attendance. I'd like to commend the Walton Institute for organising today's event which has brought together a wide range of stakeholders from across many different industries. Today's event will benefit both the IrelandQCI project and stakeholders in attendance through collaboration and knowledge-sharing'. Waterford's Walton Institute in SETU is leading the €10 million IrelandQCI project on behalf of SFI CONNECT. Several national universities and research centres make up the consortium of partners involved in the project, including quantum technology experts from Trinity College Dublin, UCC's Tyndall National Institute, UCD, Maynooth University and the Irish Centre for High-End Computing at the University of Galway, and industry partners HEAnet and ESB Telecoms. These academic and industry specialists are pooling their expertise and resources to achieve success in adding an extra security layer to Ireland's communications infrastructure and the data it transmits. Project Lead and Director of Research at Walton Institute, Dr Deirdre Kilbane, commented: "This event is an excellent coming-together of the quantum communication community not only from across Ireland but ac...

"When I grow up I want to be an influencer" but should we be encouraging kids to make it online? We discuss all with Tanya Sweeney Columnist, Irish Independent, Sue Murphy from Newstalk and also Dr Irene McCormick Senior Lecturer in Media Studies, SETU.

South East Technological University (SETU) was delighted to recognise this year's graduates from the prestigious Advance HE's Aurora Women in Leadership programme, an initiative aimed at advancing women in leadership roles in higher education. A ceremony was held at SETU's Cork Road campus in Waterford on Wednesday, 29 May, to recognise the achievements of women across the University who have completed this transformative programme and those who act as Aurora mentors and champions across SETU. The Aurora programme, renowned for its focus on developing future leaders in higher education, provides participants with a unique opportunity to enhance their leadership skills, expand their networks, and gain invaluable insights from experienced mentors. This year's cohort from all SETU campuses reflects their personal commitment to career development and the University's ongoing support for gender equality and leadership development. At the event, this year's participants were presented with their certificates of completion by SETU President Professor Veronica Campbell, who shared insights into her own career journey and lessons learned along the way in a Q&A session with Dr Allison Kenneally, Vice President for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion, and Dr Yvonne Kavanagh, Director for Engineering Research at SETU's Kilkenny Road campus in Carlow. Addressing the attendees, Dr Kavanagh, who is one of SETU's Aurora Champions, said, "It's truly inspiring to see the Aurora community from across SETU come together to celebrate this year's graduates. The commitment to fostering excellence in leadership at SETU is clearly evident as I look around at the present and future leaders here today." Roisin Shanahan, one of this year's Aurora graduates, stated, "The Aurora programme has been a transformative experience, equipping me with the skills and confidence to pursue leadership roles within SETU. I am grateful for the support from the university and the inspiring network of women I have connected with through this journey."

This week on Sg2 Perspectives, host Tori Richie is continuing the 2024 Impact of Change® (IoC) forecast conversation with Sg2 Director Gurmeet Bawa and Consultants Setu Shah and Emily Smith—this time, around the topic of innovation. Gurmeet, Setu and Emily talk about some of the key medical innovations in this year's IoC forecast and their implications for health systems, as well as trends and advancements in diagnostic innovations.    We are always excited to get ideas and feedback from our listeners. You can reach us at sg2perspectives@sg2.com, find us on Twitter as @Sg2HealthCare, or visit the Sg2 company page on LinkedIn.

South East Technological University (SETU), in partnership with Glenveagh, along with NUA, its manufacturing brand, has established a 'Women in Construction STEM Scholarship' for the benefit of female students enrolled on construction-related courses at SETU's Department of Built Environment at the University's Kilkenny Road campus in Carlow. Scholarships are awarded to successful applicants enrolled on years' one and two of the Bachelor's degree courses in construction management, quantity surveying, and architectural technology. At a ceremony at SETU's campus in Carlow on 17 May, a total of four scholarships were announced, with scholarship awarded to successful applicants from each of the three eligible programmes. The students receiving scholarship awards were Daisie Summer Cullen Dunne (Construction Management, year one), Caitlin Flynn (Quantity Surveying, year one), Aishling Maguire (Quantity Surveying, year one), and Jessica Mc Call (Architectural Technology, year two). Dr Eoin Homan, Head of Department of Built Environment and Extended Campus, welcomed Paula Voiseux, HR Business Partner at Glenveagh, for the scholarship presentation. He commented, "At SETU we place huge value on the strong relationship that has developed with Glenveagh. The initiative is significant and a potentially powerful means of promoting more balanced gender representation within a sector that provides a significant contribution to the Irish economy and Irish society in general." Commenting on this initiative Paula said, "Glenveagh has forged a strong relationship with SETU's Department of Built Environment in Carlow over the last number of years and has welcomed a number of work placement students and graduates of Quantity Surveying and Construction Management from SETU's Department of Built Environment. Our Women in STEM scholarship partnership was designed to support talented female students in a predominantly male industry. We're proud to be a leading employer in our industry with a commitment to 30% female graduate intake. We look forward to welcoming more work placement and graduate students from SETU's various programmes in the future." At SETU, the initiative was coordinated by Pascal Harte, a lecturer within the Department of Built Environment. In commenting on the initiative, Pascal expressed his appreciation for the support provided to scholarship recipients by Glenveagh. He noted the beneficial impact that this will have on their respective learning journeys. Pascal also thanked Glenveagh's team who have supported the establishment of this valuable student support initiative. For more information on the courses available from SETU's Department of Built Environment, visit setu.ie.

Autonomous Systems are the jumping off point for this podcast episode with Indrakshi Dey of the Walton Institute at SETU. We talk about how computer science research is progressing in this area, encompassing the world of AI and forming links with partners across all disciplines. This leads on to a chat about how we (humans) tend to anthropomorphise Artificial Intelligence systems. We also discuss Indrakshi's career to date and how being a woman of colour has given her unique insight across the sector. Here are some links if you wish to follow up the podcast: ·       Walton Institute Key Research Areas https://waltoninstitute.ie/research/key-research ·       CONNECT project https://www.connect-science.net ·       Indrakshi Dey's profile at the Walton Institute https://waltoninstitute.ie/about/staff/dr-indrakshi-dey ·       Indrakshi Dey's profile on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/indrakshi-dey-aa658839/   ·       Rob O'Connor on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertoconnorirl/

Kellie, Aoife agus Graeme ag comhrá linn faoi imeachtaí Chumann Gaelach Ollscoil Theicneolaíochta Phort Láirge

Here's a live panel discussion we recently hosted at SETU, in which a bunch of computing professionals talked about what it's like to work in the tech sector in Ireland. This took place in front of approx. 200 Leaving Cert students, tied in with Computing Week at SETU. If you're a student or someone who's interested in starting a career in IT, this discussion might be very useful. The panel is comprised of: Padraig O'Neill – UNUM Sinead Queally – VoxGig Mick O'Brien – Kargo Donna Tilson – Sun Life Brendan O'Farrell – Red Hat Amanda Freeman-Gater - SETU Please excuse the poor audio in places. This was held as a live event and not a podcast. However, there were some great nuggets of info in there so we decided it was better to get it out there, warts and all.

If your home and work are where you spend most of your time – the first and second locations that your life is centered around, where would you say the third place is? In the late 80s, an urban sociologist wrote about the importance of informal public gathering spaces, but have we lost those in our busy modern lives? Dr Jill O'Mahoney is a lecturer in Sociology in SETU joined Sean to discuss...

First, on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the 22km long Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, also known as the Atal Setu Nhava Sheva Sea Link. To understand the kind of work that went into building such a massive bridge and how it will aid commuters, we have Indian Express' Sweety Adimulam, in this segment.Second, back in 2018, the Mumbai police department established a fund, the Mumbai Police Foundation. However, a recent RTI filed by The Indian Express has brought to light that the Mumbai police also received contributions from entities that were being investigated by the department. In this segment, we speak to Indian Express' Mohamed Thaver who filed the RTI for the paper. 11:12Lastly, we talk about the arrest of two suspects in connection with the killing of police officer Anand Kumar, in Manipur's Moreh, which caused tension in the town. 9:03Hosted by NIharika NandaWritten and Produced by Shashank Bhargava and Niharika NandaEdited and Mixed by Suresh Pawar

As you consider the many things you can do to restore the health of Mother Earth, you may be overlooking one important thing… the clothes you wear that are mostly produced by fast fashion methods and made with synthetic materials and toxic chemicals.Jeff Scult has taken the road way less traveled to creating regenerative clothing made from trees!A natural born storyteller, Jeff shares his emotional and spiritual journey that led to creating One Golden Thread, his love for words and why the number 108 is a sacred one in this magical Living 4D conversation. Learn more about Jeff — a lovestyle leader — on his website. Check out One Golden Thread via social media on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.For Living 4D listeners: Save 11 percent on your order at One Golden Thread with this special link and using the promo code CHEK22 at checkout. For every item purchased, One Golden Thread pledges to plant a tree!Timestamps Jeff's favorite word: Setu. (5:54)The openness of being weird. (11:16)A life-changing meeting with a Chinese medicine physician. (14:47)Jeff's life before One Golden Thread as a storyteller. (20:33)Words cast spells. (32:25)Jeff's original vision for One Golden Thread. (48:34)An infinite loop or a circular one? (1:01:05)This sacred number kept following Jeff in magical places for a decade. (1:11:36)The feel of beech tree fiber. (1:15:29)“What can we do to give back more than it takes to create?” (1:22:04)Thich Nhat Hanh's 14 Mindfulness Trainings (precepts). (1:41:58)Study biomimicry. (1:52:51)Jeff reads his Ode to a Golden Soul, AKA Fuck Yes. (2:02:46)The problems with fast fashion. (2:12:56)Jeff's story, The Human Manifesto. (2:23:50)“If you're not sharing your gifts, you're being selfish.” (2:32:15)ResourcesWhat The Bleep Do We Know? Koyaanisqatsi on YouTubeFind more resources for this episode on our website.Thanks to our awesome sponsors: CHEK Academy/IMS 1 Prerequisites Paleovalley chek15 BiOptimizers PAUL10 Cymbiotika L4D15 Organifi CHEK20We may earn commissions from qualifying purchases using affiliate links.