DCU academics recognised at annual Presidents Awards for Research
The annual Dublin City University President’s Awards for Research recognise researchers with sustained contributions in their field, those making impact early in their careers, as well as those making significant impact beyond academia.
This year there are three awardees across three categories, hailing from three different faculties.
Vice President for Research John Doyle said
“Congratulations to Prof Dunne, Dr Hopper and Dr Marks on their awards. Their dedication to applied research and expanding knowledge to meet global challenges is inspiring. Almost a year on from the launch of the university’s strategic plan, we have made progress against ambitious targets for research. However, today represents a chance to look past the numbers and bring it back to the human level, and put three faces to some excellent research.”
Presidents Research Award for Academic Staff - Prof Nicholas Dunne, School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering
The President’s Research Award for Academic Staff recognises outstanding achievements and research excellence over an extended period of time. This year’s award goes to Prof Nicholas Dunne.
Prof. Dunne's leadership at Biodesign Europe has significantly contributed to driving internal collaboration, formation of research clusters, implementing research strategy, and advancement of DCU’s open research agenda. Recently, a product of the organisation’s long standing collaboration with Irish medical device firm PBC Biomed received FDA breakthrough status, signifying it is superior to most commercially available products on the market. This new bioadhesive designed to treat bone fractures less invasively and with superior results is just one example of the significant research Prof Dunne has led.
Prof Daire Keogh said
“I am delighted to join you in honouring this select group of individuals for their outstanding contribution to the University’s research output and their impact in addressing key challenges. Today’s event also gives us the opportunity to celebrate our wider research community, allowing us a moment to take stock of their excellence and achievements.”
Presidents Awards Research Impact - Dr Louise Hopper, School of Psychology
The purpose of the President’s Research Impact Award is to recognise and reward those whose research at DCU has led to excellent impact outside of academia. This year, Dr Louise Hopper is recognised for her work in dementia and ageing.
Dr Louise Hopper's research has focused on quality of life for older adults, particularly those with dementia, as well as the ethical use of health data. She has taken a dynamic approach incorporating psychosocial, technology and eHealth interventions. She accepted her award in absentia, referring to her desire to make a difference through applied research in a video presentation.
President’s Research Award for Early Career Staff - Dr Danny Marks, School of Law & Government
Dr Danny Marks’ research focuses on evaluating the efficacy of climate adaptation governance, inequality and climate change, as well as the efficacy of natural and man made interventions
During his acceptance speech Dr Marks spoke about his love for Southeast Asia, Thailand in particular, as well as his dismay at the uneven effects of climate change on the most impoverished.
Dr Marks is taking a leading role in several major ongoing research projects, including an innovative EPA funded grant where he and Dr Darren Clarke from the School of History and Geography are assessing Ireland’s current climate adaptation policy. Danny is also a collaborator on a project examining the proliferation of nature based carbon sinks in Southeast Asia.