Saint Patrick’s Day could have a multitude of different meanings depending on who you ask. For some, it holds a religious value. For others, it’s about celebrating the heritage and culture of Ireland. And for those who don’t fall into either of those categories, it’s simply an excuse to celebrate.
Here at ECS, we’re taking a different route this Saint Patrick’s Day. We’re shifting gears to take a look at the important scientists of Ireland who have helped shape electrochemistry and solid state science, as well as the modern Irish scientists who are working to advance the science and bolster innovation.
Robert Boyle
Ireland provided the world with the first modern chemist in the form of Robert Boyle. Known for Boyle’s law, he detailed the inversely proportional relationship between the absolute pressure and volume of gas. Find out more.
Ernest Walton
Nobel laureate Ernest Walton also hailed from Ireland and gained fame for this work in “atom-smashing” experiments. He then was the first person to artificially split the atom, ushering in the nuclear age. Find out more.
Denis N. Buckley
As past President of ECS and Chair of Physics at the University of Limerick, Denis N. Buckley has made a huge impact in the field of electrochemistry. Buckley worked on the development of rechargeable lithium batteries and subsequently on the epitaxial crystal growth and cauterization of compound semiconductor films and their application to high performance optoelectronic devices. Find out more.
Eithne Dempsey
ECS member Eithne Dempsey is an established electrochemist with a lead role at CREATE (Centre for Research in Electroanalytical Chemistry) at the Institute of Technology Tallaght. She was also highly involved with the European Commission’s Marie Curie Actions. Check out the video.
Michelle Browne
As a Ph.D. student and member of ECS, Browne is looking to change the landscape of renewable energy sources. Her work focuses on electrochemical water splitting, for which she has just won a first place award at ELECTROCHEM 2014. Find out more.
Carmel B. Breslin
Another ECS member, Carmel Breslin, is looking to advance solid state science. As a Professor of Chemistry at Maynooth University in Ireland, Breslin developed a new environmentally acceptable corrosion-control technology that will prevent and minimize damaging corrosion reaction. Find out more.
Learn more about becoming a member of ECS here!
And for student members in Ireland, make sure to check out our Student Chapter at Tyndall National Institute!
