Winners Announced at the 15th Annual TU Dublin Graduate Research Symposium
TU Dublin proudly hosted the 15th Annual Graduate Research Symposium on Wednesday, December 4th, 2024. This year’s event celebrated the remarkable achievements of graduate researchers, with awards presented to those who demonstrated exceptional innovation, creativity, and communication in their work. The Symposium continues to be a cornerstone event for TU Dublin, offering a platform to showcase ground-breaking research and foster collaboration across disciplines.
Best Poster Competition
- Winner: Valentina Magno
- Title: Use of Biomolecular Corona Gold Nanorods Assemblies for Glycan-Based Diagnostics
Valentina is in the School of Physics; Clinical and Optometric Sciences, supervised by Dr Daniela Oboroceanu, Dr George Amarandei and Dr Marco Monopoli. Her research project is on the development of a platform for early diagnosis of cancer by monitoring protein corona - nanoparticles assemblies.
Best Oral Presentation
- Winner: Gemma Lyons
- Title: Unravelling Molecular Markers of Foie Gras Aroma for Development of Cultivated Alternative
Gemma is the School of Food Science and Environmental Health in her final year, supervised by Prof Jesus Frias & Mr Victor Sayous (Gourmey). Her research project is on ‘The effect of processing parameters on the quality of culture meat’. Gemma's research aims to investigate aroma compounds and their precursors in traditional foie gras to inform the design of a cultivated (cell-based) alternative with a similar flavour profile. This involves analysis of both volatile and non-volatile molecules. Candidate biomarkers are then experimentally trialled within cultivated cells to test the contribution to aroma generation.
Thesis in Three Competition
TU Dublin Representative at the National Final:
- Name: Chioke Okolo
- Title: Advanced Quality Control in Irish Whiskey: Solvent Suppression Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Coupled with Chemometrics
Chioke is in the School of Food Science and Environmental Health in his final year, supervised by Prof Christine O’Connor and Prof Kieran Kilcawley. His research project is on ‘Building the Irish Brand: Whiskey Profiling for Authenticity, Quality Control, and New Product Development’. The research combines analytical techniques to identify and build the fingerprint of Irish whiskey through analysis of congeners to uphold authenticity, enhance quality standards, and foster innovative product development. Thus, preserving its legacy and instilling trust and confidence in producers and consumers, ultimately protecting the brand's integrity.
TU Dublin Representative at the Heritage Network Sustainability Event:
- Name: Jorge Lasarte
- Title: Advancing HOE Recording Techniques for Optimized LED Integration
Jorge is in the School of Physics, Clinical and Optometric Sciences in his final year, supervised by Dr Suzanne Martin and Dr Kevin Murphy. His research project is on “Developing optical patterning techniques for diffractive optical elements optimized for non-laser light sources” focuses on developing cutting-edge methods for recording Holographic Optical Elements (HOEs) tailored for LED-based systems. By addressing challenges such as angular and spectral mismatches, efficiency losses, and environmental stability, the research aims to enhance the performance and versatility of HOEs in LED integration. The study combines advanced recording geometries, techniques, and simulation-driven optimization to achieve improved optical efficiency and functionality in compact, energy-efficient applications.
Now in its 15th year, the TU Dublin Graduate Research Symposium is a signature event showcasing the university’s commitment to graduate research excellence. The Symposium serves as a vital platform for students to present their findings, engage with peers, and connect with academic and industry leaders. For more information on the Graduate Research, see TU Dublin GRS