How can a mathematician help drug addicts? What's the link between trees and visitors from outer space? Is ecstasy another healthcare timebomb?
Find out in a new booklet, University Research - Science and Technology Research in Irish Universities, published by the Conference of Heads of Irish Universities (CHIU).
The first in a series of booklets on university research, it is to be followed next year by a booklet on research in the humanities and social sciences. Regular publications on various aspects of third-level research are expected.
There are thousands of research projects currently under way in our universities. This publication, gives snapshot views of only a small number - two from each of the universities.
Professor Dermot Diamond, for example, heads a DCU team investigating tree rings. These tell you how old a tree is, how the climate changed during the lifespan of the tree and, intriguingly, whether it witnessed a visit from outer space.
You see, in some instances there are periods when trees haven't grown for 30 years, and nobody knows why. Most likely this long-term dormancy was brought about by a climatic disaster, a volcano - or the impact of a meteor. But which? The DCU team is using analytical-science methods on bog oak to find the answer.
The new publication is "geared towards improving the public's understanding of university research and its value to society", says NUI Galway president Dr Patrick Fottrell. The Government's plan to invest almost £2 billion in R&D "provides unparalleled opportunities and daunting challenges for the universities and their researchers," he says.
While the Government has finally copped on to the importance of R&D, most of us are still in the dark about its relevance.
The universities are also aware that the dissemination of positive information on research could go a long way to encourage more young people to take up science. Traditionally, the lack of accessible information on the world of Irish science has meant that many young people have remained ignorant about the thrills of third-level science and have made other career choices.
Copies of niversity Research are being distributed free to schools. Contact CHIU (tel: (01) 676 4948); website: (www.chiu.ie).
