Irish students among winners of EU’s top prizes for young scientists

Irish students Cormac Thomas Harris and Alan Thomas O’Sullivan were awarded top prize in the 32nd EU contest for young scientists, for their statistical investigation into gender stereotyping in 5-7 year olds.

The European Union’s top prizes for young scientists were announced during the award ceremony in the University of Salamanca in Spain, following a two-day hybrid competition among 158 of the best European young scientists aged 14 to 20, coming from 34 countries.

The students presented 114 different projects to an international jury of renowned scientists, chaired by Dr Attila Borics from the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. The winning projects shared a total of €93 000 in prize money, as well as other prizes such as visits to some of the most innovative research organisations and companies in Europe.

The recovery from the pandemic and the green and digital transitions have further increased the need for science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) skills in Europe. The contest seeks to promote young people to study STEM and pursue a career in science.

Due to COVID-19 safety measures, students participated remotely from their homes. A special virtual venue was setup where they could present their projects and debate with each other and the jury. The two-day event also featured a talk by Dr William D. Phillips, winner of the Nobel Prize in physics in 1997 and a roundtable discussion with recognised scientists on challenges that young scientists are facing today.

Mariya Gabriel, Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, said: “Congratulations to all winners of this year’s contest on their outstanding achievement. The last year has shown us the importance of excellent research and innovation in overcoming crises that affect all of us. This competition celebrates a new generation of talents whose discoveries and innovations will be essential to shape the future we want to live in. I’m really proud of our youth’s exceptional work.”