Talented young minds attended the RDS in Ballsbridge to showcase their projects before the highly anticipated public opening tomorrow.
Alongside the young people was the first-ever winner, from 1965, John Monahan (78).
The retired biotech scientist, from Straffan, Co Kildare, still credits the early recognition 60 years ago from winning the competition as being the catalyst for a brilliant career.
“This is a hugely important event, showcasing Ireland’s young talent of the future. It’s a reminder of how excellent the Irish education system is, despite criticism,” Dr Monahan, who has returned to the event as a judge, said.
“I was a student at Newbridge College all those years ago and I was the only entrant from my school back then. I ended up doing the project in the summer holidays, in my own lab at home.
“I’d always loved science and the competition gave me the confidence to then enter into the field. That’s the most important thing here, still, to give young people the confidence to continue into science and tech.”
Dr Monahan left Ireland to study in Canada first, as he did not wish to risk being drafted into the Vietnam War if he was to attend a college in the US.
But he later went on to enjoy a successful career in the US, researching Parkinson’s disease and haemophilia.
He also ran his own biotech company and is still involved on the boards of companies. But despite his achievements, Dr Monahan has never forgotten his Young Scientist roots.
Thousands of students from across the country will attend the event throughout the week and many will hope to emulate the type of work Dr Monahan has contribute...
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