Midlands Science celebrates 25 years of inspiring curiosity with science

Midlands Science has marked 25 years of transforming how people across the region engage with science, celebrating a legacy that has reached more than 168,000 people and helped make science more accessible, inclusive and relevant to everyday life. The work is delivered across Westmeath, Longford, Laois, and Offaly.

The milestone was celebrated at the National Science Park in Mullingar, bringing together supporters, partners and members of the scientific community to reflect on the impact of the organisation and its growing role in an era increasingly shaped by misinformation and rapid technological change.

For a quarter of a century, Midlands Science has created opportunities for people of all ages to develop their curiosity, confidence and understanding of science.

Through festivals, public events, school programmes and community initiatives, the organisation has brought internationally renowned figures to the region, including Dr Mary Guinan, who played a leading role in the eradication of smallpox, and Leena Gade, the first female engineer to lead a team to victory at the Le Mans 24 Hours car race.

Midlands Science has also been a pioneer in inclusive science engagement, leading developments in accessibility practices such as sensory-friendly events and the use of Plain English to ensure science is open and accessible to all.

It has also shared its practice with others, including at EU level through a series of research papers shared at EUSEA, Europe’s leading platform for science communications. It has received awards for its work from the Naughton Foundation, the Social Innovation Fund of Ireland, local authorities, and others.

In 2022, CEO Jackie Gorman received the Science Foundation Ireland Award for Outstanding Contribution to Science Communications in Ireland. Supported by a diverse range of public, private and philanthropic funders, the organisation continues to expand its reach and impact across the midlands.

Speaking at the event, Ms Gorman highlighted the growing importance of science communication in modern society. “When we started this work 25 years ago, the focus was rightly on encouraging young people to engage with science and helping to make science more accessible and inclusive. Today, while that remains vital, the role of science communications has become even more important in a way we could not have fully anticipated.

“The rise of misinformation and disinformation is having profound implications for society, influencing everything from climate action and public health to trust in institutions.

“Science communications are no longer simply about education; it is about helping people navigate an increasingly complex world and ensuring that evidence, critical thinking and informed decision-making remains part of public life. Science is not separate from society or culture. It shapes our lives every day and helping people engage with it confidently has never been more important.”

The event celebrating 25 years included a wide-ranging interview with Dr Mike Ryan, who is known globally for his work with the World Health Organization.

He reflected on his work responding to a range of global health emergencies including Covid-19, and on the importance of public trust, evidence-based decision-making, and effective communications about science in addressing the challenges facing society today.

He was interviewed by Midlands Science chairperson, Dr Craig Slattery, who is from County Offaly and based in the Conway Institute, UCD, where he is engaged in a range of science communications and research projects at national level.

The event also showcased the next generation of scientific talent emerging from the region. Attendees heard from researcher Kate Duffy, who is from Athlone. She had taken part in a wide range of Midlands Science activities over the years and now her PhD research into cancer is contributing to advances in understanding of the disease.

That highlights the world-class scientific expertise developing among the next generation of young midlands people and the impact of science communications in society.

A number of students who are interested in further studies and careers in science attended the event from Loreto College, Mullingar and had the chance to have some discussion with Dr Mike Ryan in which he encouraged them to consider the positive impact they could make in the world through science.

As Midlands Science looks to the future, it remains committed to ensuring that science is accessible, engaging, and relevant to everyone, while continuing to contribute to the positioning the Midlands as a region where curiosity and discovery can thrive.