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The prestigious Ulster Scientists Trust Awards – which recognise the A-Level science students who received the highest combined marks in Biology, Chemistry and Physics in Northern Ireland – were celebrated at the Ulster Museum on Thursday, January 8.
The annual event, which has been running for more than 60 years, this year awarded three students for their 2025 results.
The first prize was awarded to Aoife, of The Royal School, Dungannon, who is now studying Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology at the University of Cambridge.
Aoife said: “It’s really motivating to have my hard work recognised in this way.
“Having just completed my first few months at Cambridge, it’s lovely to look back at my enjoyable time at The Royal School and share this accolade with fellow future STEM leaders.
“I know this award will stand to me as I continue my studies and enter into the workforce in years to come.”
A second prize was awarded to Sinead Brolly of Lumen Christi College, Londonderry. She is now studying Medicine at Queen’s University Belfast.
The final prize went to Fionntán Murtagh of Our Lady and St Patrick’s College, Knock, who is now attending Queen’s University Belfast to study Physics.
Professor Pascal McKeown, a trustee of the Ulster Scientists Trust, and former Head of the School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences at Queen’s University, gave an address at the event commending the recipients, as well as their schools for encouraging their pursuit of STEM subjects.
He said: “By celebrating our school students, we motivate and encourage these students to continue their interest in science. We also demonstrate to future students how rewarding a career in STEM can be.
“I am heartened by the continued commitment and passion of our secondary schools towards the science subjects.
“These awards not only recognise the individual merits of these three students, but also offer recognition to their schools for excellence in teaching.”
Dr. Geraldine Macartney, chairwoman of the Ulster Scientists Trust, added: “The Trust receives nominations from schools all over Northern Ireland, for which we are grateful, and through these awards, we can recognise and highlight the excellence in science teaching in schools.
“Over the years, people born in Northern Ireland have made enormous contributions to science and medicine all over the world.
“The Ulster Scientists Trust has a role in promoting awareness of these scientists to inspire and encourage students, making the Ulster Museum – a space known for its ability to spark curiosity – the perfect backdrop for today’s ceremony.”
Each year, around 40,000 students engage with National Museums NI’s learning programmes positioning its four museums not just as custodians of history, but as catalysts for positive change.
Jenny Haslett, Education Manager at National Museums NI, said: “With the help of our wide network of partners, such as Ulster Scientists Trust, we continue to create meaningful learning experiences that equip the new generation of scientists and innovators with the skills and confidence necessary to help shape a better future.
“In today’s rapidly changing and challenging world, the ability to think creatively to solve problems, and adapt to new realities, is critical.
“We play a unique role in encouraging our visitors to recognise Northern Ireland’s legacy of innovation and ignite their curiosity to leverage the learnings of the past into the future.”
