Semester Research
Students accepted into the University of Galway study abroad program have the opportunity to complete the Scientific Research Experience module.
This research experience will help students to:
- Exhibit an in-depth knowledge of basic and applied research in their assigned research area.
- Demonstrate awareness of common techniques and technologies in the research area.
- Develop expertise in a range of methods through hands-on experience in a laboratory setting.
- Follow health and safety standards required for laboratory research.
- Identify, read, and critique research in scientific literature.
- Communicate scientific concepts and findings in an appropriate written format and style.
The module is worth three Notre Dame credits and generally requires 8-10 hours of lab work per week, in addition to a final report written and submitted at the end of the semester. An application form will be sent out to students in the semester before they study abroad. Interested students can fill out the form, and they will be placed with a PI based on their previous experiences and interests.
Student Testimonials
“The opportunity to learn new restoration practices in a marine environment is unique and something I would not be able to participate in back home. I truly appreciate the ability for me to conduct an independent research project here while gaining a new perspective on international research and collaborations.”
Grace ‘27 participated in Dr. Liam Morrison’s marine and freshwater ecology lab. The image above depicts Grace doing fieldwork at one of the lab’s seagrass restoration sites in Killala, Ireland.
“During my time here, I have learned various new skills with the help of supportive PhD researchers, including microtome slicing of rat brains, immunohistochemistry, as well as analysis of tissue stains. I would like to thank the team for their endless support and guidance on my journey so far.”
Elizabeth’s ‘27 research at the University of Galway was done with the Department of Pharmacology under the supervision of Professor Eilís Dowd. The team focuses on developing novel biomaterial delivery methods of iPSCs to repair the dopaminergic degenerative processes that occur in Parkinson's brains.
Volunteering
In addition to the research module, University of Notre Dame students studying in Galway also have the opportunity to participate in various volunteering activities throughout the semester. Unlike the research module, these opportunities are uncredited. Despite this, students will still gain important experience and a sense of cultural and academic immersion unique to the Galway program. In the past, these volunteering opportunities have included (but are not limited to):
- Planning and executing events for the Biseach initiative and the Lambe Institute
- Running various projects and compiling data related to cancer clinical trials
- Collating publications originating from the University of Galway’s Cancer Biobank
Interested students can coordinate with the Notre Dame Kylemore team to arrange a volunteering opportunity while they are in Galway.
Summer Placement
Download the Research Experience at University of Galway brochure
University of Notre Dame students have an opportunity for a three-credit Summer Research placement at a complimentary lab in the University of Galway. The placement will give students the chance to undertake a range of hands-on tasks under the guidance of a faculty mentor and professional researcher to gain expertise in laboratory and analytical techniques using contemporary technologies.
Students will critically read relevant literature, discuss concepts and results with mentors, and prepare a formal final report detailing their research experience. These international placements provide an excellent opportunity for students to gain international work experience and participate in cutting-edge research. Accommodation will be at the University of Galway’s student accommodation, and there will be a cultural summer programme led by Notre Dame Kylemore included which will enrich students’ summer placement experience through allowing them to learn about the history, politics, and creativity of the West of Ireland.
There are four areas of research available where the student will be paired off with a PI.
➔ Biomedical Engineering
➔ Civil Engineering
➔ Cancer Research
➔ Environmental Science/Engineering