Recently we were thrilled to host the class of 2024 Summer Fellows here at Tyndall, IPIC (funded by Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland, formerly Science Foundation Ireland) and MCCI.
Students undertook a 12-week research project complemented by a workshop series, all the while closely mentored by our world-renowned scientists and researchers. During this time, they had supervised access to our state-of-the-art research infrastructure, as well as the opportunity to learn about research commercialisation, communication and more.
Such hands-on experiences are incredibly valuable for students, as they provide a unique insight into the world of cutting-edge research.
A range of additional, bespoke activities were also organised, with the purpose of inspiring our Summer Fellows to pursue careers in science and technology. Fellowship activities included:
- Python & MATLAB coding workshops
- Laser Design & BioPhotonics technical workshops
- Soft skill workshops including CV writing, Poster design & presentation, research commercialisation
- Networking such as lab tours, the Photonics Escape Room, intern coffee mornings, career pathway event with Fellowship alumni
- Poster session and contest on the final day
- Meet and Greets with MIDAS Ireland as well as engineers from Analog Devices Inc (ADI), Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) & Firecomms.
The highlight for many Fellows this year was a ‘Role Model visit’ to inspire them to pursue a career in STEM, presented by Prof. Sinéad Ryan, Dean of Research TCD.
Commenting on the success of the programme, Dr Caitriona Tyndall, Education & Public Engagement Officer at IPIC says:
“This programme offers undergraduate students the best opportunity to not only develop research skills but also skills that will contribute to their careers whether in academia or industry. The programme has had a major impact, with alumni pursuing PhDs at prestigious institutions and universities such as Tyndall, Cambridge, Oxford and Stanford as well as industry positions within Intel, Analog Devices, Meta and many more.”
The Summer Fellowship Programme provides an opportunity for students to develop key skills which may assist them in securing STEM roles in the future. Students are partnered with a senior researcher relevant to their chosen research area and receive a generous stipend while undertaking the programme.
In the coming months, we will announce the launch of the 2025 programme – watch this space!
At Tyndall we believe that an equitable, diverse and inclusive research environment positively impacts the work that we do, generating greater innovation, creativity and rigour in our research. To be considered for the Summer Fellowship, candidates need to be enrolled as an undergraduate student in a Republic of Ireland based university or institute of technology in a STEM field.
