A new science award has been unveiled by Taoiseach Enda Kenny, TD, called the St Patrick’s Day Medal which will be presented annually to a distinguished Irish scientist living and working in the US.
The medal will be awarded to an Irish scientist who has not only demonstrated excellence in his or her scientific endeavour, but who has assisted in the overall advancement of science in either academia or industry in Ireland.
The St. Patrick’s Day Medal will be promoted by Science Foundation Ireland and will be open to nominations which will be sought annually from relevant Irish diaspora networks across the USA, including the Global Irish Network. In time, eligibility for the medal will be broadened to include members of the scientific diaspora beyond the United States.
The medal will be presented annually during the St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Washington, DC, with the first medal awarded in March 2014.
“Science and innovation, now more than ever, play a vital role in driving economic growth and addressing health and social challenges,” Kenny said.
“I am delighted therefore to announce the establishment of the Science Foundation Ireland St Patrick’s Day Medal. This award will recognise the achievements of the Irish scientific diaspora and highlight the contribution they are making to science, society and Ireland.”