Science Week 2026 explores ‘Water. From Molecule to Ocean’
This year’s theme for Science Week, ‘Water. From Molecule to Ocean’, invites people to explore water at every scale, from an essential building block of life to a powerful force shaping our planet.
It also encourages us to consider how we can preserve this vital resource for the future.
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, TD, announced in August funding of €960,830 from his department to support the delivery of events across the country.
Midlands Science Festival on November 10-13 in Mullingar and Athlone is part of Science Week, and includes events for people of all ages.
Local events include.
• Rowing an Ocean. Dr Karen Weekes, Mary Ward Centre for Science, TUS Athlone, Monday 9 November, 6pm
• An dúlra agus an fiadhúlra in Éirinn, Radisson Blu Athlone, Tuesday 10 November, 7.40pm
• A Day in the Life of a Psychologist, TUS Athlone Main Building, Wednesday 11 November, 6pm
• Demystifying Common Myths Around Training and Nutrition for Swimmers, Mary Ward Centre for Science, TUS Athlone, Wednesday 11 November, 7pm
• Physical Activity for Health Pop-Up Stand, Golden Island Shopping Centre, Athlone, Thursday 12 November, 10am
• The Ugly Animal Roadshow – Weird Life Underwater, Mullingar Arts Centre, Friday 13 November, 10am
• More events in the region and across the country can be found at scienceweek.ie.
Science Week 2026, coordinated by Research Ireland, will feature 15 festivals and more than 200 events nationwide. The programme is designed to make science accessible, and no specialist knowledge is needed to take part.
Minister Lawless said. “Science Week has become a much-loved part of our national calendar, giving people of all ages the opportunity to be curious, ask questions and dive into the science behind the world around us. This year’s theme captures that spirit of discovery perfectly.
Dr Diarmuid O’Brien, CEO of Research Ireland, added. “Each year, the inspiring events put on across the country bring science to the public in a way that relates to their lives. This year’s theme ‘Water – From Molecule to Ocean’ – is one everyone can relate to. It encourages us to take a closer look at how water has shaped our planet and our lives, and at our relationship with this vital resource.
“Science Week wouldn’t be possible without the incredible local organisers and volunteers that give their time each year to share their passion for science and make it accessible to everyone, so I want to share my sincere gratitude for their efforts.”
Science Week 2026 takes place from 8 to 15 November. For more information, visit scienceweek.ie. Follow along on social media using #scienceweek.
About Research Ireland
Established on 1 August 2024, Research Ireland is Ireland’s competitive research and innovation funding agency, following the formal amalgamation of Science Foundation Ireland and the Irish Research Council researchireland.ie.
About Science Week
Science Week is a week-long event in Ireland each November, celebrating science in everyday life. Coordinated by Research Ireland, it features nationwide events and regional festivals that connect the public with science, technology, engineering and maths through a wide variety of activities.