science at ucd 2010

SCIENCE AT UCD 2010

DISCOVER. EXPERIENCE. CHOOSE.

UCD Science Programme OfficeUniversity College Dublin

UCD

SCIENCE

6TH YEAR CAREER

EVENINGS

SEPTEMBER 29, 2009

NOVEMBER 10, 2

009

6:30pm – 8:30pm

Email: [email protected]

to register

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Applying to UCD

CAO Code & UCD Degree Title Minimum Minimum AdditionalCAO Points A-Level Subject 2008 Grades 2008 Requirements

or equivalent combination***

DN008 300 BB (A-Level) & d (AS)Science OmnibusDN020 520 AAA (A-Level) Leaving Certificate Actuarial and Financial Studies & a (AS) Maths HB3

A-LevelMaths B

DN093 345 CCD (A-Level) Leaving CertificateArchaeology and Geology & c (AS) Other language OD3

A-LevelOther language C

DN039 465 ABB (A-Level) & c (AS)Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyDN038 320 AB (A-Level) Leaving CertificateClimate & Earth System Science & d (AS) Maths HC3

A-LevelMaths C

DN030 335 ACDComputer ScienceDN032 465 ABB (A-Level) Leaving CertificateMathematical Science & c (AS) Maths HB1

A-LevelMaths B

DN035 395 BCDDMedicinal Chemistry and Chemical BiologyDN036 435 ACC (A-Level) & a (AS)NeuroscienceDN034 420 BBC (A-Level) & c (AS)PharmacologyDN033 335 AB (A-Level) & c (AS) Leaving CertificatePhysics with Astronomy and Space Science HC3 in Physics

or Maths or Applied MathsA-LevelsC in Maths or Physics or Applied Maths

DN031 405 AAC (A-Level) Leaving CertificateTheoretical Physics HB2 Maths and HB2 Physics

A-LevelsMaths B and Physics B

Leaving Certificate Minimum RequirementsPasses in 6 subjects (including 2 at minimum HC3) includingIrish*English Mathematics** 1 laboratory science subject 2 other recognised subjects*If you were born outside the Republic of Ireland, you do not require Irish as a subject for entry to UCD**Minimum Grade B3 LC Ordinary Level/D3 LC Higher Level

A-Level Minimum RequirementsGCSE Grade C in EnglishGCSE Grade B in MathematicsGCSE Grade C in 1 laboratory science subjectGCSE Grade C in 3 other recognised subjectsIf you need additional help in relation to your eligibility as an A-level applicant to UCD send an email to [email protected] a calculator on working out points and other information visit www.ucd.ie/myucd/alevel

EU applicants should apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO). Application information is available at www.cao.ie. Each UCD degree has a unique

CAO code associated with it. For example, the Omnibus Science entry is DN008. If you are searching online for information about a course, it is a good idea to

use both the code and the degree name. Non-EU applicants apply either via a UCD agent in their own country or online at www.ucd.ie/apply.

***NB The introduction of the A* grade in 2010 will result in revised A-Level equivalencies.

Science at UCD

Our dynamic and modern university is renowned, nationally and internationally, both for its

quality of education and pioneering research. Since 1854, our graduates have played a central

role in the shaping of modern Ireland and in the conduct of international affairs.

Welcome to UCD Science

Today, University College Dublin is a vibrant and exciting centre of

learning where, through the Horizons programme, you can enhance

your learning experience by broadening your learning or driving

deeper into the subjects that interest you. Either way, you will

receive a first class education and a great opportunity for

personal development.

UCD has the largest Science programme in the country, providing

degree courses in biological, chemical, geological, mathematical,

physical and computer sciences delivered by lecturers at the

forefront of both teaching and research.

UCD Science graduates are in great demand in Science-based

employment both at home and abroad, and are equally sought after

in areas other than Science where there are requirements for

rigorously trained, numerically competent and analytically proficient

graduates. Many UCD Science graduates continue their studies at

graduate level, through Graduate Higher Diplomas, Master and PhD

programmes in UCD or through postgraduate training in leading

institutions all over the world.

At UCD Science, we recognise that students need support that

extends beyond their academic needs. We have two full-time

Student Advisers available to meet with students on a range of

problems in relation to personal, social or practical issues. No

problem is too trivial. In addition, the Science Programme Office

staff are always available to assist students with academic,

administrative and other problems. Student Advisers, the

Programme Office and academic staff operate an “Open Door”

policy, which means that you can drop in at any time without

an appointment.

We look forward to welcoming you to UCD.

Professor Mark Rogers

Dean of Science at UCD

ContentsBiological and Chemical Sciences

Physical Sciences

Mathematical Sciences

4

14

10

Careers in Science 17

SCIENCE AT UCD | 1

Science at UCD

There are three stages to a BSc General Science degree and four

stages to an Honours Degree. Each stage is normally completed in

one year. Stage 1 Science students have a mixture of lectures and

practical classes every day. Typically, lectures take place in the

mornings, practicals in the afternoons. Laboratory, field and library-

based projects form an integral part of the course. You do have to

work hard but there is still room for a social life! Entering Science

can be a daunting experience and the Science Programme Office is

committed to helping students through their first year. There is a

huge degree of choice but we offer comprehensive advisory sessions

at the start of the year to help you choose the course that is right

for you. Academic Staff, Peer Mentors, Science Programme Office

staff and Student Advisers are also there to help you with your

decisions.

Stage 1

Under UCD Horizons, each degree is made up of 12 modules per

year. In Stage 1 Science, you take 10 science modules and two

electives which may also be science modules. You take six modules

per semester.

In Stage 1, you may sample up to six science subjects in your first

semester. This gives you a great opportunity to decide which of

the sciences is of interest to you. It allows you time and flexibility

to make an informed choice on the subjects that you will pursue

in your second semester and in the following years. You can

change your second semester choices after the first

semester ends.

By choosing your modules carefully, you have the possibility of

choosing from several degrees at the end of Stage 1.

Stages 2, 3 and 4 In Stage 2, you have the option of pursuing up to three different

degree subjects. At the end of Stage 2, you choose your major

subject for Stages 3 and 4. You may also opt to take a joint major

where you specialise in two subject areas.

You can enter UCD Science through the Omnibus or Denominated

routes. There are 23 single honours degrees to choose from in the

Omnibus programme or you may take a range of joint degrees where

you study two science subjects. Each subject in the Omnibus

programme has a limit on the number of places available and

students are not always guaranteed their first subject choice.

If you already know the science subject you wish to study, you can

enter that programme directly through one of 10 BSc or 1 BAFS

denominated entry routes. This option guarantees a place on your

chosen degree programme.

The CAO code for the Science Omnibus entry is DN008 and the CAO

codes for the Denominated entries are listed in Table 1. All the

degrees available are divided into three main areas – Biological &

Chemical Sciences, Physical Sciences and Mathematical Sciences.

CAO Code Subject Areas

Biological & Chemical Sciences

DN008 Biochemistry

DN039 & DN008 Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

DN008 Botany

DN008 Cell & Molecular Biology

DN008 Chemistry

DN008 Environmental Biology

DN008 Genetics

DN035 & DN008 Medicinal Chemistry & Chemical Biology

DN008 Microbiology

DN036 & DN008 Neuroscience

DN034 & DN008 Pharmacology

DN008 Physiology

DN008 Plant Genetic Engineering

DN008 Zoology

CAO Code Subject Areas

Physical Sciences

DN093 Archaeology & Geology

DN038 & DN008 Climate & Earth System Science

DN008 Geology

DN008 Physics

DN033 & DN008 Physics with Astronomy & Space Science

DN031 & DN008 Theoretical Physics


DN020 Actuarial and Financial Studies

DN008 Applied & Computational Mathematics

DN030 Computer Science

DN032 & DN008 Mathematical Science

DN008 Mathematics

DN008 Statistics

TABLE 1: CAO Codes and Subject Areas for BSc and BAFS degrees.

UCD Science Programmes

Stages of a UCD Science Degree

2 | SCIENCE AT UCD

Science at UCD

Your First Year Explained Support for Students

The Science Programme Office will be your first point of contact and

we encourage you to visit the office for information, support and

advice on any issue. Staff in the office will be able to give you advice

on module selection for the courses you intend to follow and the

subject areas you can progress into in later years. The Programme

Office is open from 8:30am to 5:00pm during term and operates a

drop-in policy.

Peer MentoringAll incoming Stage 1 students will be linked with a Peer Mentor who

is a Stage 2 or Stage 3 Science Student. They are available to help

you to get to know the ropes, answer all of your questions and offer

good advice on things such as where to go, how to fit it all in and

how and when to join clubs and societies.

You will meet your Mentor during Orientation and you will

exchange details so that you can contact them during the year and

they can let you know of group meetings.

Advisory SessionsAdvisory sessions are held for all Stage 1 Science students before

term is due to start. The advisory sessions commence with an

address by the Dean of Science. During these sessions you will have

the opportunity to attend short talks from science lecturers and

meet and talk to individual staff members for consultation on the

selection of modules. Science lecturers in each of the Science

Schools will be available for the first two weeks of Semester 1 to

meet with Stage 1 Science students to answer questions about

module selection.

Choosing your ModulesThe modules you choose in your first year will determine the

subjects that you may specialise in, and ultimately what degree

you can achieve.

For example, if you want to pursue a degree in Chemistry, you

must take two Chemistry modules (CHEM 10050 and CHEM

10060) and two Mathematics modules (MATH 10070 and

MATH 10090) at Stage 1.

To pursue a degree in Microbiology or Zoology, at Stage 1 you

must take three Biology modules (BIOL 10020, BIOL 10050 and

BIOL 10060), two Chemistry modules (CHEM 10050 and CHEM

1060) and two Mathematics modules (MATH 10070 and MATH

10090).

You need to study 10 Science modules in your first year so after

you select the compulsory modules for your degree course,

you can then make up your remaining module requirements

from optional Science modules.

A complete list of all Stage 1 modules for Omnibus and

Denominated students is enclosed at the back of this brochure.

SCIENCE AT UCD | 3

* There are compulsory modules you must study depending on whichsubject you wish to specialise in. In Stages 1 and 2 there may also be someoptional modules you can study from within Science. See insert at back ofbrochure for further details.** Elective modules are modules available from any programme within UCD.You can only choose modules that will fit into your Science timetable.

Table 2: Sample pathway for a BSc Science Degree

STAGE 1 STAGE 2 STAGE 3 STAGE 4

10 Science* 10 Science 10 Science No. of Science

Modules Modules Modules Modules

= 50 credits = 50 credits = 50 credits varies

= 60 credits

2 Elective** 2 Elective 2 Elective

Modules Modules Modules

= 10 credits = 10 credits = 10 credits

Total Total Total Total

= 60 credits = 60 credits = 60 credits = 60 credits

In sixth year I had no idea what I wanted to work at so I decided to go

with the subjects I liked most and study Science at college. The

Omnibus programme at UCD is a really good choice if you’re unsure

which area of science you’d like to specialise in as all kinds of

combinations of subjects are possible in first year. You can even try

them all for the first week or two, if you really want to!

Of course, there’s more to college than study, and I’d recommend any

first year to get involved with societies as much as possible. This year I

took part in debating, tennis and the UCD Community Musical, and I

also write for The University Observer, one of UCD’s two student

newspapers. UCD is great in that it’s so big – there really is

something for everyone!

Student

Rowland Bennett

Science Omnibus

Rowland was a first-year entrance

scholar who got 600 points in

his Leaving Certificate

A protein extract from a breast cancer cell line. Image by Thomas Lau

I knew from an early age that I wanted to study Science and

UCD was always my university of choice. Following an exciting

four years of hard work (and a thoroughly enriching social life) I

graduated with my BSc in 1995 from the department of

Biochemistry at Merville House. I was determined to continue

my studies and enrolled as a PhD student. My PhD in enzyme

kinetics afforded me the opportunity to develop a range of

research techniques, to work with wonderful people and to

travel and present at international conferences, including a

three-week tour of Japan.

My introduction to the private sector began with Tyco Healthcare

and was soon followed by the role of Scientific Advisor with

GlaxoSmithKline. I am now the Medical Affairs Manager with

Sanofi Pasteur MSD in Ireland. Despite my love of research, I have

thoroughly adapted to the corporate environment.

My education has equipped me with the necessary skills to

thrive in the private sector where the ability to comprehend

complex scientific information and communicate effectively are

valuable assets.

Dr Brónagh Hayden

Medical Affairs Manager

with Sanofi Pasteur

BSc (Hons) Biochemistry, PhD

Biological and Chemical Sciences

Potential combinations shown here are examples only and are notguaranteed by UCD. Some modules at Stages 3 and 4 are worth more than 5 credits.

Sample path for Biological andChemical Sciences degree

The example below illustrates one of many combinations of

subjects for a student interested in a BSc degree in Zoology.

STAGE 1

Biology3 modules= 15 credits

Chemistry2 modules= 10 credits

Mathematics2 modules= 10 credits

3 OptionalSciencemodules= 15 credits

2 Electivemodules= 10 credits

Total =

60 credits

STAGE 2

Genetics3 modules= 15 credits

Zoology6 modules= 30 credits

1 OptionalScience module= 5 credits


Total =

60 credits

STAGE 3



Total =

60 credits

STAGE 4


Total =60 credits


Alumna

4 | SCIENCE AT UCD

DN008 Biochemistry

Biochemistry aims to explore and

understand every aspect of the structure

and function of all living things at the

molecular level. Biochemistry combines the

molecular approach of Chemistry with the

breadth and diversity of Biology. It uses

varied and powerful experimental

techniques to examine living organisms,

their component parts and molecules that

play a role in the function of the cell.

Biochemistry occupies a central position in

modern biological research. The degree

programme covers a wide range of topics

including the structural biology of proteins

and enzymes, biotechnology,

bioinformatics and proteomics, structure-

based drug design, molecular

endocrinology, cell signalling, the molecular

basis of disease and genetic information

processing.

What sort of careers do Biochemistry

graduates have?

Graduates will be able to obtain positions

in a wide range of industrial and academic

facilities including the pharmaceutical and

biotechnological industries, forensic science

and clinical laboratories. In addition,

graduates may pursue careers in teaching,

publishing and management. A degree in

Biochemistry is also good preparation for

entry into professions such as medicine.

DN039 & DN008 Biochemistry &Molecular Biology

Biochemistry & Molecular Biology aims to

explore and understand every aspect of the

structure and function of all living things at the

molecular level. The combination of these

subjects into one degree programme unites

the molecular approach of Chemistry with the

breadth and diversity of Biology. Both use

varied and powerful experimental techniques

to examine living organisms, their component

parts and molecules that play a role in the

function of the cell.

The degree programme covers topics

including the structural biology of proteins

and enzymes, biotechnology, bioinformatics

and proteomics, structure-based drug design,

molecular endocrinology, cell signalling, the

molecular basis of disease and genetic

information processing.

What sort of careers do Biochemistry and

Molecular Biology graduates have?

Graduates of this degree will be equipped with

the skills required to pursue a career in any

avenue of modern biomolecular research. They

should be able to obtain positions in a wide

range of industrial and academic facilities

including the pharmaceutical and

biotechnological industries, forensic science

and clinical laboratories. In addition graduates

may pursue careers in teaching, publishing

and management, as well as being prepared

for entry into professions such as medicine.

DN008 Botany

Botany is the scientific study of plants and

fungi. Plants are a vital component of the

biosphere and are directly responsible for

the conditions that support and maintain

the atmospheric and environmental

conditions required for life on Earth. Plants

are also the mainstay of human and animal

diets and provide medicines, timber, paper

and clothing. Plants are also being

exploited as sources of renewable energy,

biodegradable plastics and biofuels.

What sort of careers do Botany

graduates have?

Botany graduates pursue careers as plant

scientists, environmental consultants,

pollution biologists, molecular geneticists

and cell biologists, as well as in more

vocational areas, as agronomists,

horticulturalists, national park supervisors

and wildlife or conservation officers.

HIV-1 Protease – one of the key enzymes in HIV. Undergraduate practical in the UCD Conway Institute.

Biological and Chemical Sciences s

Fern spore by electron microscopy (colourtreated). Image by Alfonso Blanco

SCIENCE AT UCD | 5

DN008 Cell & MolecularBiology

Cell and Molecular Biology studies cells and

the molecules that combine to form them.

This includes their physiological properties

such as their structure, their interaction

with the extracellular environment and

other cells, their life cycle, division and

function and eventual death. This is done

both on a microscopic and molecular level.

Cell biology researches both single-celled

organisms like bacteria and specialised cells

in organisms such as humans and plants.

Appreciating the similarities and differences

between cell types is particularly important

to the fields of cell and molecular biology.

Research in cell biology is closely related to

genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology

and developmental biology.

What sort of careers do Cell and

Molecular Biology graduates have?

Graduates in Cell and Molecular Biology use

their training to pursue a wide variety of

careers. They are employed in a wide range

of pharmaceutical, industrial and academic

areas. These include public sector institutions

(government laboratories and agencies,

etc.), research institutes, second- and third-

level teaching institutions. Graduates may

also use their scientific background in other

areas such as scientific publishing,

marketing, sales and management.

DN008 Chemistry

All materials and living things consist of

atoms and molecules. Chemistry is the

study of these atoms and molecules and

how they interact with each other and the

role they play in living things. Many

students choose to specialise in Chemistry,

as a detailed knowledge of the subject is

essential for entry to many interesting and

challenging careers. For instance, chemists

are creative and can discover new

substances that can have a range of

applications such as medicines that fight

disease (e.g., aspirin, penicillin), or as

materials that are very important in

everyday life (e.g., PVC, Teflon).

What sort of careers do Chemistry

graduates have?

Chemists in industry are involved in the

production and analysis of chemicals. Those

in research work on the discovery of new

medicines, new devices and materials and

on advancing our knowledge of the world.

Development chemists can work with

engineers and business people to

turn discoveries into commercially

valuable products.

DN008 Environmental Biology

Environmental Biology investigates the

interactions between organisms and their

natural and man-made environments. The

disciplines of animal ecology, conservation

biology, ecophysiology, ecotoxicology,

microbial ecology, plant ecology, pollution

biology, vegetation science and wildlife

ecology all contribute to the understanding

of environmental biology.

What sort of careers do Environmental

Biology graduates have?

Environmental Biologists pursue a variety of

scientific careers, such as aquaculture and

fisheries managers, environmental

consultants, habitat ecologists, national

park supervisors, pollution biologists, rare

species conservation officers, technical and

scientific officers, university professors,

wildlife officers and conservation biologists.

Advanced biological approaches now allow us tolook at how human cells interact with novelbiomaterial surfaces at a molecular level. This is anintegrated view of cell-biomaterial interaction.Image by William Gallagher

Chemistry students Rory Herron and Craig Connollyduring a practical involving the extraction ofcyclopentadiene.

Studying reptiles on a field trip to southern Spain.Image by Tasman Crowe


6 | SCIENCE AT UCD

DN008 Genetics

Genetics is the scientific study of heredity –

how information is passed from one

generation to the next. Molecular genetics

and molecular biology are core

components of modern biology, medicine

and biotechnology. The Genetics degree

course covers exciting new developments

such as genetic engineering and

biotechnology, transgenic animals,

genetically modified plants, medical

genetics, gene therapy, molecular

evolution, developmental biology

and genomics.

What sort of careers do Genetics

graduates have?

Many Genetics graduates go on to study

for a higher degree (MSc/PhD) and work in

all sorts of areas, such as universities and

industrial research laboratories. Other

graduates obtain jobs in agribiotech and

other biotechnology companies, in the

pharmaceutical sector and in hospital

diagnostic laboratories.

DN035 & DN008 Medicinal Chemistry &Chemical Biology

With its enormous impact on biology and

medicine, Chemical Biology will

undoubtedly lead to further discoveries and

inventions, which will become widely

adopted in clinical practice. Consider such

Nobel Prize winning accomplishments as

the discovery of penicillin (Fleming, Florey

and Chain, Hodgkin) and the

determination of the structure of DNA

(Watson and Crick).

Chemical Biology & Medicinal Chemistry

are fields populated by chemists who have

a good understanding of biology at the

molecular level. They will be of increasing

importance for decades to come to address

existing and emerging healthcare problems

(for example cancer, AIDS, TB and

avian flu).

What sort of careers do Medicinal

Chemistry and Chemical Biology

graduates have?

Chemical Biologists and Medicinal Chemists

will develop the next generation of

medicines to solve such problems and will

have an impact across a wide range of

areas including the development of

environmentally friendly approaches to

process chemistry.

These are transgenic zebrafish larvae (5 days old,3mm long) that express green fluorescent protein inall their blood vessels. The zebrafish is our animalmodel to study retinal development and disease. Image by Yolanda Alvarez

I’m studying Medicinal Chemistry and

Chemical Biology. When I was in

secondary school I studied biology. I

loved it but I found that chemistry forms a

major part of the biology course. I then

realised that many biological processes

are due to chemical reactions and I

became very keen on the idea of studying

biology from a chemist’s perspective. That

is exactly what this course allows.

In Medicinal Chemistry I have the

opportunity to study the likes of

biochemistry, endocrinology, immunology

and biomedical sciences alongside

chemistry subjects such as organic

chemistry and physical chemistry. I found

in first year that the course catered very

well for those who had not studied both

biology and chemistry before.

There are many different scientific

pathways that a medicinal chemistry

student can pursue after their degree. I

am particularly interested in organic

chemistry and the synthesis and

manipulation of natural extracts for

medical purposes.

Science is also a very exciting place in

UCD at the minute. I am currently part of

the Science Day Committee, a class rep

and a first year mentor. The possibilities

are endless in both the curricular and

extra curricular aspects of UCD.

James Williamson

Medicinal

Chemistry and

Chemical Biology


“I enjoy the

hands-on practicals

most of all”

Crystal structure of the extracellular segment of anIntegrin protein involved in blood clotting. Imageby Norman Davey

SCIENCE AT UCD | 7

DN008 Microbiology

Microbiology is the study of microscopic

organisms known as micro-organisms or

microbes. Microbes play a key role in every

facet of life on this planet. For example,

microbes are an essential link in the (re)cycling

of nutrients and have a major impact on the

earth’s climate by their metabolism of

greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and

methane. Microbes protect us from

colonisation by pathogens, assist in our

metabolism of food and are responsible for the

production of essential nutrients and vitamins

in our bodies. A few microbes cause disease,

for example MRSA, AIDS and meningitis.

Microbiological research aims to find

treatments for these and other infectious

diseases. In addition we use and engineer fungi

and bacteria to produce a vast array of

compounds ranging from antibiotics to

bioplastics, which play a critical role in

medicine and industry.

What sort of careers do Microbiology

graduates have?

Microbiologists are employed in the healthcare

and pharmaceutical industries and in the food

and food-related industries where they are

involved in research and development, process

design and control, management and in

quality control. All hospitals employ

microbiologists where they work in, for

example, clinical laboratories.

DN036 & DN008Neuroscience

Neuroscience is the study of nerve cells and

attempts to understand how these cells interact

with each other to form the brain and regulate

body functions and human behaviour. The

malfunction of the nervous system lies at the

heart of a number of devastating and currently

incurable conditions, such as Alzheimer’s and

Parkinson’s diseases. Neuroscience research

probes the mechanisms underlying such

malfunctions with a view to helping in the

discovery of drugs to prevent or manage these

disorders. Disciplines such as cell biology,

genetics, biochemistry, physiology,

pharmacology, anatomy, psychology and other

branches of the life sciences are integrated in

Neuroscience in order that the brain and

nervous system can be understood from a

number of levels of analysis.

What sort of careers do Neuroscience

graduates have?

Neuroscience graduates have the opportunity

to follow many different career paths. They

may choose to continue their education by

pursuing a postgraduate degree programme.

Alternatively, many will obtain employment in

the pharmaceutical, agrochemical or medical

technology industries or in research institutes or

government agencies. As trained scientists,

many graduates are highly sought after by

large multinational organisations and go on to

careers in management, accountancy,

marketing, law and publishing.

DN034 & DN008Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the study of the nature,

actions and uses of drugs. A drug is any

substance that is given to humans or

animals with the intention of changing the

state of body functioning: to relieve pain,

treat cancer, eliminate infection or improve

health in any way or to investigate the

functions of the body. Toxicology is another

important component and is the study of

the harmful effects of chemicals on living

organisms. Toxic substances include certain

drugs, pesticides, heavy metals, plant and

microbial toxins and many organic

chemicals.

What sort of careers do Pharmacology

graduates have?

There are opportunities for postgraduate

work in Pharmacology in UCD and there are

currently 66 postgraduate students pursuing

research projects in the UCD School of

Biomolecular & Biomedical Science or in

associated laboratories. Careers in

management, research and product

development are available for graduates in

the pharmaceutical industry. Pharmacology

graduates may also pursue careers in

teaching and in regulatory agencies, e.g.,

drug information/registration.

Cillian Lynch and Claire Mooney looking atembryos at different stages of development.

Fiona McDonnell with international student JamesMcKenny in a Pharmacology undergraduate labexamining an automatic organ bath.

Conor Brennan and Fay Dalton in an undergraduateMicrobiology lab investigating the IMViC test used inwater and food analysis.


8 | SCIENCE AT UCD

SCIENCE AT UCD | 9

DN008 Physiology

Physiologists are interested in how the cells

and organs of the body operate and how

their incredible array of processes co-operate

to enable our bodies to function under

normal and challenging circumstances.

Physiologists are therefore at the forefront of

medical research and the search for a better

understanding of disease processes. At UCD

physiology students first acquire a basic

understanding of the components of the

body and how it senses and responds to the

internal and external environments.

What sort of careers do Physiology

graduates have?

Physiology graduates go on to establish

careers in the following areas: biomedical

research in the university system or other

government-run operations, pharmaceutical

industry-based research and development,

sales or marketing. Physiology graduates

regularly gain places on postgraduate

entry medicine and other allied healthcare

degree courses.

UCD provides opportunities for postgraduate

physiological research at the master’s or

doctoral level. Research into basic

physiological mechanisms takes place but the

research focus is on translational research, i.e.,

the research that enhances our understanding

of human disease, which leads to advances in

improvement of human health.

DN008 Plant GeneticEngineering

This subject includes the study of the

techniques of Plant Genetic Engineering

but also places these techniques within the

broader context of plant science and food

safety. Students take courses in various

aspects of plant molecular biology, genetics

and plant ecology. Stage 4 students take

specialist modules on a range of topics

including plant food safety, genetically

modified organisms in the environment,

plant developmental biology, applied

molecular biology and plant breeding.

What sort of careers do Plant Genetic

Engineering graduates have?

In addition to further postgraduate studies,

graduates from this course are ideally

positioned for careers that demand a

knowledge of plant genetic engineering,

such as regulatory authorities, food safety

laboratories, plant biotechnology

companies and agencies monitoring the

release of GMOs.

DN008 Zoology

Zoology is the study of animals, from the

level of individual molecules to how

populations of animals interact with their

environment. Modern Zoology deals with

all aspects of animals, from genetics and

cell biology to ecology and animal

behaviour. Zoology in UCD prides itself on

maintaining a diverse curriculum allowing

students to choose from a wide range of

disciplines, including terrestrial, marine and

freshwater biology, immunology, ecology,

population genetics, developmental biology

and zoonotic and other diseases.

What sort of careers do Zoology

graduates have?

Employers of Zoology graduates in Ireland

include government departments, National

Parks & Wildlife Services, Health Service

Executive, National Museum, semi-state

bodies such as ESB, BIM and the Salmon

Research Trust, conservation bodies,

forensic laboratories and a wide range of

medical and veterinary companies. The

UCD School of Biology & Environmental

Science has a large group of marine

researchers (www.ucd.ie/zoology/marbee)

and its members teach marine biology and

ecology at all levels.

Fern spore by electron microscopy (colour treated).Image by Alfonso Blanco

Taken during an x-ray exposure, this image givesan insight into how x-ray images are produced. Image by Dr Mark Mc Entee © 2008


Image by Dr Eamonn Gormley. © UCD 2008.

Sample path for Mathematical Sciences degree

The example below illustrates one of many combinations of subjects

for a student interested in a BAFS degree in Actuarial

and Financial Studies.



Mr Eoghan Casey

Susquehanna Ireland

BSc (Hons) Mathematical Science

Alumnus

10 | SCIENCE AT UCD

Image by Carlos Hernandez

STAGE 1

ComputerScience2 modules= 10 credits

Economics2 modules= 10 credits


Statistics 3 modules= 15 credits


Total =60 credits

STAGE 2*

Actuarial andFinancialStudies10 modules = 50 credits


Total =60 credits

STAGE 3*

Actuarial andFinancialStudies**6 modules= 55 credits

1 Electivemodule= 5 credits

Total =60 credits

STAGE 4

Actuarial andFinancialStudies10 modules= 60 credits

Total =60 credits

*Modules in Stages 2 and 3 include Accountancy, Finance,Mathematics, Information Management and Statistics. ** 1 module is worth 30 credits and entails a professional work placement.

I’m glad I studied Mathematical Science because of my love of

mathematics; its intricate structures, its powerful uses in science and

finance and the elegance, inevitability and finality of a good proof.

I’m glad I studied at UCD because of the many wonderful

experiences I had over my five years in fields as diverse as debating,

martial arts, college radio and newspapers, the Students’ Union,

charity work and the Faculty (as it was) of Science.

The course is an excellent grounding for a career in finance and

in 2005 I joined Susquehanna Ireland, a cutting-edge trading

firm that operates on all of the major European exchanges from

its offices in Dublin. Now I run the company’s ADR strategy,

which involves European stocks that are also listed on American

exchanges. Monstrous sums of money flow through the markets

every day, attracting the smartest and keenest people. It’s a

perfect career for someone who wants to work with

mathematical and statistical ideas and be well rewarded for it.

DN030 Computer Science

Computer Science is the investigation

and exploration of the theory,

practice and use of computers and

computation. It covers topics that

span the theory of computation,

software construction, hardware

design, computer operating systems

and the applications of computers in

the communications, scientific and

commercial systems fields. There are

opportunities for Stage 3 students to

undertake funded research

internships in the UCD School of

Computer Science & Informatics.

What sort of careers do Computer

Science graduates have?

Career opportunities available to

Computer Science graduates include

software programmer, software

engineer, database engineer, web

developer, network engineer, digital

circuit designer, systems analyst and

computer consultant. Many

graduates also go on to careers that

‘use’ computing, rather than ‘are’

computing. Examples of this

include positions in financial services,

the film industry, video game

development and the automobile

and aeronautics industries.

DN020 Actuarial & Financial Studies

The BAFS (Hons) degree will prepare you for a

professional career in the actuarial or financial

professions, but it has also been designed to be

broader and more diverse than most traditional

programmes in actuarial science. It takes a

combination of strong analytical skills, business

knowledge and understanding of human

behaviour to design and manage programmes

that control risk and guarantee sufficient funds

for the insurance and pension sectors. For

example, the actuary works out the risk (i.e., the

likelihood of an incident such as a fire

happening) and calculates how much the

customer should pay for insurance cover in

order to ensure the insurance company has

sufficient funds to pay out if the incident occurs.

The actuary calculates the premium based on

the pattern and trends in the entire

marketplace. To that end your degree will focus

on statistics, mathematics, economics, finance,

investment and related actuarial science and

business subjects.

What sort of careers do Actuarial and

Financial Studies graduates have?

BAFS graduates hold a degree with

exceptionally good career prospects in the

financial services industry and they are highly

sought after by employers. Most of these take

positions as actuarial trainees in the life,

pensions, health or general insurance industry.

Although many pursue careers as an actuary,

a significant number of graduates have

established good careers in banking,

economics, management consultancy,

accountancy, computer science and statistics.

Actuaries are typically employed in the financialservices sector where their role is to understand thenature of risk and find ways to manage it.

Undergraduate Computer Science student

during a programming competition.

Mathematical Sciences s

Ms Gillian O’Connor- ProductDevelopmentActuary with NewIreland/Bank ofIreland LifeBAFS, FSAI/FIA

Alumna

I graduated with a first class honours degree in

2006 and am now studying for a PhD in

Statistics.

I really enjoyed my four years as an

undergraduate in UCD. I chose to do a BSc in

Mathematical Science. The wide range of courses

available through this degree programme

appealed to me. I took courses in many subjects

including Chemistry, Computer Science,

Mathematical Physics, Mathematics and Statistics.

I could then specialise in the areas I most enjoyed

as I progressed through the degree. I am

currently studying for a PhD in Statistics in the

School of Mathematical Sciences in UCD. My

area of research is Time Series Analysis, which is

used in the modelling of datasets measured over

time such as stock prices, and economic and

environmental variables.

Ms Órlaith Burke BSc (Hons)Mathematical Science

SCIENCE AT UCD | 11

I am a Product Development Actuary at New

Ireland/Bank of Ireland Life, one of the leading

Life and Pensions providers in Ireland. My role

involves designing and pricing new products for

the company, across the full product range of life

assurance, pensions and investments. This

involves market research, feasibility studies,

pricing and project management of the overall

delivery. In addition, I provide analysis,

interpretation, advice and guidance to the

company on technically complex issues. My years

at UCD gave me a strong background in both

the technical actuarial framework and the more

general business applications of economic and

financial concepts that are essential to my role.

Alumna

DN008 Applied &ComputationalMathematics

Today's challenges faced by science and

engineering are so complex that they can only

be analyzed and solved through mathematical

and computational modelling. Mathematical

models create representations of complex real-

world phenomena in a precise quantitative way.

Outside the traditional spheres of science and

engineering, mathematical modelling and

simulation techniques are increasingly used in

the social sciences, communication, business

and finance. The UCD programme in Applied

& Computational Mathematics trains you in

essential aspects of modern analysis –

mathematical and computational – preparing

you to understand and then solve critical

problems in a wide range of application areas.

What sort of careers do Applied and

Computational Mathematics graduates have?

A wide variety of career opportunities are open

to people with mathematical and

computational skills and training. Applied and

computational mathematics is utilised in

almost every branch of science, engineering,

industry, technology, business and finance.

People with training in applied and

computational mathematics work in fields as

diverse as physics, biology, finance,

pharmaceuticals, environment,

communications, and computing throughout

business, technology, research and academia.

DN032 & DN008 Mathematical Science

The degree in Mathematical Science

covering all areas of Mathematics and

Statistics was set up in response to the

growing demands from industry,

commerce, science and technology for staff

trained in mathematical, analytical thinking.

In an increasing number of these areas,

Mathematics is the only effective language

for the analysis of problems and

communication of results and ideas. You

will learn the fundamental principles,

methods and techniques from pure and

applied mathematics, mathematical

physics, statistics and actuarial science; how

to analyse and solve problems of a

quantitative nature and to communicate

the results clearly; and, to model

mathematically a variety of real-world

problems.

What sort of careers do Mathematical

Science graduates have?

At present there is a high demand for

Mathematical Science graduates and

postgraduates in financial and banking

sectors, software design, meteorology,

pharmaceutical research, government

statistics, agricultural and veterinary

research, healthcare, mathematical and

statistical modelling, education and the

civil service.

I specialised in both Experimental Physics

and Applied Mathematics in UCD. I

found these subjects both challenging

and rewarding, the source of which

stemmed from the excellent courses and

academic staff at UCD. I studied Fluid

Mechanics which is a major discipline in

the field of Applied Mathematics.

I feel very fortunate now to be working

at the heart of the pioneering industry

that is Marine Renewable Energy. My job

description within Aquamarine Power

encompasses a wide variety of skills.

These include ocean dynamic research,

and hydrodynamic research of fluid

structure interactions and of wave and

tidal energy devices.

The mathematical and computational

skills I need for this job were acquired

during my academic career in UCD. By

studying Applied Mathematics I am well

equipped for the job as I have developed

the fundamental mathematical and

computational skills necessary to achieve

my goals. After all, mathematics has the

ability to explain everything.

Dr. Kenneth Doherty,Numerical ModellingEngineer & MarineEnergy Researcher,Aquamarine Power Ltd.BSc (Hons) MathsPhysics, PhD

Fluid mechanics was developed in the 19th century

but finds applications today in everything from

astrophysics and Formula One to traffic control

on the M50.


12 | SCIENCE AT UCD

Distribution of micro-organisms in a fluid flow.Aggregation of chemotactic particles (e.g.representing bacteria) that swim in the direction ofincreasing nutrient concentration in a chaoticallymoving fluid medium. (Numerical simulation).Image by Zoltan Neufeld

“The mathematical

and computational

skills I need for this

job were acquired

during my academic

career in UCD.”

Alumnus

DN008 Mathematics

Mathematics is a basic tool in all scientific

subjects: economics, engineering,

geography, computer science, banking

business, statistics, social science and in

many other fields. In the past 100 years the

growth of Mathematics has been

spectacular, stimulated not only by the

needs of science, technology and

commerce, but also by the intellectual

challenges provided by the discipline itself.

The subject possesses a very large collection

of problems – many still unresolved – the

investigation of which requires great

challenge and ingenuity.

What sort of careers do Mathematics

graduates have?

Each year sees new applications of

sophisticated mathematical models and

procedures, using computers, in insurance

and actuarial services, the stock market,

banking and industry. Employers in all of

these areas seek Mathematics graduates.

Our recent graduates have found work in

diverse areas including actuarial science,

banking and financial services, civil service

executive and administrative grades, coding

and cryptography, the computer industry,

market surveying, mathematical modelling,

meteorology, operations research, statistics

and teaching.

DN008 Statistics

Statistics is an important tool used by

researchers in actuarial science, agriculture,

biotechnology, computer science, ecology,

economics, marketing, mathematics,

medicine, psychology and social science.

Statisticians also develop mathematical

models for uncertainty and investigate their

properties and applicability. The power of

modern computing has had a major impact

on both the development and usefulness of

statistical methods.

What sort of careers do Statistics

graduates have?

Statisticians find job opportunities in many

diverse areas of society. Pharmaceutical

companies employ many statisticians and

the whole area of industrial quality control

provides many opportunities for those

qualified in statistics. Statisticians are also

needed for research in marketing,

medicine, agriculture and veterinary

medicine. Insurance companies often hire

statistics graduates, and in particular a lot

of the training of an actuary is based on

statistical methodology.

Statistics deals with the collection, analysis andinterpretation of numerical data.

This is an image of a fractal, a beautiful and verycomplex object described by a very simpleequation. While often seen in art, applications arenow found in medicine and seismology.

Mathematical Sciences s

“I opted for Omnibus Science

at UCD because this course

gave me the most choice.”

At school maths and physics were my

favourite subjects and I knew I wanted to

pursue them further. Instead of choosing

between a Mathematics, Physics or

Theoretical Physics degree, I opted for

Omnibus Science at UCD because this

course gave me the most choice. It

allowed me to explore the subjects at a

university level and then later make up

my mind regarding what to do a degree

in. Over time I've opted for pure

mathematics but I've learned plenty

about other areas, including physics and

computer science.

This year I'm the Public Relations Officer

for the Mathematical Society. This has

kept me busy and I've learned all about

the running of a society and how events

take place. I've also gone on a few

weekends away and encountered some of

Ireland's other Mathsocs.

After I graduate I hope to do a Masters in

mathematics and I'll decide where to go

from there. Who knows? Maybe I could

end up alongside one of the great Irish

mathematicians like Stokes, Balk or even

Hamilton!

Victor Bible

Mathematics

SCIENCE AT UCD | 13

Neutrons carry a magnetic moment but no charge and hence are unique probes to study magnetism in matter. The image shows predicted and measured intensities of a scatteredneutron beam in the magnetic crystal CsCoBr3. Image by Hans-Benjamin Braun

Physical Sciences

Potential combinations shown here are examples only and are notguaranteed by UCD. Some modules at Stages 3 and 4 are worth more than 5 credits.

Sample path for Physical Sciences degree

The example below illustrates one of many combinations of subjects

for a student interested in a BSc degree in Physics.

STAGE 1Physics3 modules= 15 credits


2 Geologymodules= 10 credits

2 OptionalSciencemodules= 10 credits

2 Electivemodules = 10 credits

Total =60 credits


4 Geologymodules= 20 credits

1 OptionalSciencemodule= 5 credits

2 Electivemodules = 10 credits

Total =60 credits



Total =60 credits


Total =60 credits

I currently reside and work in Silicon Valley, California, as President

and CEO of a venture capital-backed solar energy company called

Innovalight. In 1989 I finished my degree at UCD and moved to

Japan with NEC Corporation, at their central research laboratories

in Kawasaki. I was with a team of engineers working on novel

optoelectronics for high-speed telecommunications.

In 1996, I was transferred by Lucent to Munich, Germany, as

director of marketing for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Upon

returning to the US, I ran a $400 million dollar Lucent division in

Pennsylvania.

Eventually getting the startup bug, I joined an early stage

technology company in San Diego, California, which later resulted

in me joining our financier, venture capital firm, Sevin Rosen

Funds. I jumped back into the startup world with the formation of

Innovalight as a solar company in 2005 and have raised over $40

million in venture capital funding since.

I really enjoyed being at UCD and am very proud of being able to

say I was part of the class of Physics of 1989.

Mr Conrad Burke

President & CEO of Innovalight

BSc (Hons) Physics (UCD), MSc (TCD)

Alumnus

Physical Sciences

14 | SCIENCE AT UCD

DN093Archaeology & Geology

DN038 & DN008 Climate & Earth System Science

Climate change is the greatest environmental

challenge facing us today. The climate involves

not just the atmosphere and oceans, but also

the entire Earth system, including polar

icecaps, the biosphere and processes deep

beneath the Earth’s surface. This new inter-

disciplinary degree programme focuses on the

Earth and our climate systems, providing a

thorough understanding of the nature,

controls and dynamics of the interacting

physical and geological processes. The degree

emphasises fundamental mathematical theory,

computational methods and applications in

the Earth and atmospheric sciences and will

provide students with a comprehensive

introduction to the entire area of climate and

of the solid earth and fluid systems that

contribute to it. The programme will include

core modules in applied and computational

mathematics, geological sciences and

atmospheric, ocean and climate science.

What sort of careers do Climate and Earth

System Science graduates have?

Graduates can pursue a wide range of careers

in national meteorological and environmental

agencies such as Met Éireann, the

Environmental Protection Agency and the

Marine Institute, as well as in the private

sector. Research opportunities include MSc

and PhD programmes in meteorology and

climate in UCD and other universities and

specialised research institutions.

DN008 Geology

Geology is the study of the Earth. It is

concerned with the nature and origin of

materials that make up the Earth and impacts

profoundly on many aspects of life and

society. It explores the processes that shape

the surface of our planet and are active

beneath it (for example global warming,

earthquakes, volcanoes and landslides).

Geology seeks to answer fundamental

questions regarding the structure and age of

the Earth, how it has evolved, its processes

and the history of life. The programme aims

to provide a comprehensive understanding

of all the major aspects of geology along

with sound academic training in

independent observational and

interpretational skills. Fieldwork is an

important part of geological training and

many of our modules involve field classes.

What sort of careers do Geology

graduates have?

Graduates are employed in organisations

ranging from government agencies to

petroleum and mineral exploration

companies in Ireland and abroad. Graduates

work as geological surveyors, exploration

geologists in the petroleum and mining

industries, mine geologists, hydrogeologists,

oceanographers, geochemists,

environmental consultants, and engineering

and structural geologists.

Undergraduate students drawing a medievalchurch wall. Credit: UCD School of Archaeology

Students who are interested in the application

of geological and other scientific approaches to

solving archaeological problems will find this

an exciting and challenging joint degree

option, unique in Ireland. Archaeology is the

study of the extraordinary diversity of human

experience and long-term human culture,

through the material remains left by ancient

societies and individuals, and evidence of their

past environments. Geology is the study of the

Earth: its composition and the processes that

shape its surface and interior, for example

global warming, earthquakes, volcanoes and

landslides. Archaeology and Geology have in

common the aims of understanding past life,

dating and interpreting past events,

investigating natural materials of interest to

people, and exploring the relationship

between culture and the natural world.

What sort of careers do Archaeology and

Geology graduates have?

In recent years, archaeology has become an

increasingly commercial field in Europe,

particularly in Ireland, with many

archaeological companies being formed. The

heritage sector and cultural tourism are also

growing; all these industries require crossover

knowledge between natural science, cultural

conservation and interpretation. Science-

based archaeology skills are in great demand

in Ireland and abroad. The unique mix of

transferable academic and practical,

humanities and science skills should be

extremely beneficial for many other careers.

Front approaching Ireland and snow over the Alps(Eumestat RGB composite image).

Geology students on a field class on the Isle ofPortland, southern England.

Physical Sciences s

SCIENCE AT UCD | 15

Physical Sciences

16 | SCIENCE AT UCD

DN008 Physics

Physics is about the fundamental laws of

the universe that govern living as well as

non-living systems. It is a fundamental

science involving a deep understanding of

nature derived from mathematical and

experimental insights. Advanced lecture

modules cover core areas of Physics such as

quantum mechanics, nuclear physics,

elementary particle physics, condensed

matter physics and general relativity, and

also include electives in areas such as

astrophysics, applied optics, biophysics,

environmental physics and medical physics.

What sort of careers do Physics

graduates have?

Recent Physics graduates have pursued

careers in industry (electronics, computers,

telecommunications), hospitals (medical

imaging, nuclear medicine, radiotherapy),

government and semi-state services,

national laboratories, banking, finance,

insurance and academic research. Related

fields in which physicists find employment

include geophysics, chemical physics,

biophysics, computer science and materials

science and the energy sector.

DN033 & DN008 Physics with Astronomy& Space Science

This is primarily a Physics degree

programme, with an emphasis on the

applications of Physics in Astrophysics and

Space Science. You will gain an

understanding of how ground-based and

space-based technologies are used to explore

the universe and how modern science can be

used to understand it. The course contains

modules in Physics, Mathematics, Astronomy

and Space Science. Advanced topics include

stellar and planetary formation and

evolution, black holes, galaxies and

cosmology. Related modules on relativity,

elementary particle physics, nuclear physics

and quantum mechanics provide a rigorous

foundation in the science underpinning

astronomy and astrophysics.

What sort of careers do Physics with

Astronomy and Space Science

graduates have?

A wide range of careers is open to Physics

graduates, including R&D in high-tech

industries, software development, teaching,

banking and finance, management

consultancy, meteorology and medical

physics. The degree also prepares students

for careers within the space industry (e.g.,

NASA and ESA). Graduates will be extremely

well prepared to pursue further study at MSc

level, or research at PhD level, in Ireland

and abroad.

DN031 & DN008Theoretical Physics

Theoretical Physics aims to provide a

unified description of the fundamental laws

of nature. These laws govern the behaviour

of all physical objects in the universe. This

degree provides an introduction to all the

major areas of Theoretical Physics including

relativity theory, quantum mechanics,

atomic physics, nuclear physics and

computational physics. Advanced topics

include: general relativity, electromagnetic

theory, quantum gravity, quantum field

theory, statistical mechanics, theoretical

astrophysics, fluid mechanics, high energy

physics and condensed matter physics.

What sort of careers do Theoretical

Physics graduates have?

The course provides an excellent training in

problem-solving and computing skills that

can be applied in a wide variety of careers

in industry, business, government and

university. Research opportunities are

available to Theoretical Physics graduates in

UCD and in other universities. Theoretical

Physics graduates may also pursue careers

in meteorology, software development,

stock market analysis, environmental

analysis, internet/network consultancy,

financial risk analysis and second- and third-

level education.

Professor David Southwood, Director of the EuropeanSpace Agency Science Programme, meeting some ofthe Stage I Physics with Astronomy & Space Sciencestudents on the School of Physics roof, in front of thestudent radio telescope.

Chiral objects such as seashells, DNA and evenelementary particles such as neutrini are ubiquitousin nature, yet the origin of such chirality continuesto puzzle scientists. Now physicists have revealed amechanism that explains the origin of chirality inmagnets. Image by Hans-Benjamin Braun

Cathy Keenan, Fiona Nolan and Riona Tullymeasure the resistivity of metal alloy in anundergraduate Physics lab.

Types of Careers and SalariesThe diversity of careers available to UCD Science graduates is very

varied. Depending on the subject you specialise in you will learn

practical skills in laboratory procedures and running equipment

or in programming, database management and networking.

All our Science graduates are skilled at analysing data, writing reports,

solving problems and are trained to use their own initiative – all

qualities that companies are looking for in employees. These skills can

be transferred to businesses from biotechnology, conservation and

wildlife to business, finance and forensics.

Many Science graduates take entry level positions in the

pharmaceutical, information technology and banking sectors. After

building up their skills and work experience graduates can then

progress to more senior levels within the same company or move to a

different company.

Table 3 illustrates the salaries for some of the positions available for

Science graduates. It shows how salaries increase with an increase in

work experience. For example, a Microbiology Analyst with one to

three years’ experience could earn €25,000 – €35,000 and with three

years’ plus experience could earn €34,000 – €46,000.

This survey also indicates how a Science graduate can progress

through their career within a company. For example, a Chemistry

graduate with one to three years of experience could start out as an

Analytical Chemist earning between €30,000 – €44,000 and with

experience and promotion could potentially become a Quality

Manager on €55,000 – €75,000 or even a Director of Quality on a

salary of €90,000 – €120,000.

Graduate Study OpportunitiesMany of our UCD Science graduates continue their studies to masters

or doctoral degree level. Leading UCD Institutes and Research Centres

include the CSCB (Centre for Synthesis and Chemical Biology), the

UCD Conway Institute of Biomedical and Biomolecular Research and

UCD CASL (Complex & Adaptive Systems Laboratory). In addition,

UCD is also home to NovaUCD, the Innovation and Technology

Transfer Centre. Notable successes include the development and

licensing of a BSE test, which to date has generated €2 million in

royalty income for UCD, and the establishment of a range of spin-off

companies including Celtic Catalysts and ChangingWorlds.

Flow cytometry is used to analyse cells in suspension. In this image you can see a blood sample analysed by this powerful tool. Image by Alfonso Blanco

Careers in Science

TABLE 3: Salary Survey 2009

Job Title Dublin €Science and PharmaceuticalAnalytical Chemist (1-3 years’ experience) 30,000 – 44,000 Analytical Chemist (3+ years’ experience) 42,000 – 55,000Microbiology Analyst (1-3 years’ experience) 25,000 – 35,000Microbiology Analyst (3+ years’ experience) 34,000 – 46,000Environmental Officer 27,000 – 38,000QA/QC Supervisor 42,000 – 58,000Quality Manager 55,000 – 75,000Director of Quality 90,000 – 120,000Clinical Research Officer 35,000 – 50,000Clinical Operations Manager 60,000 – 80,000

Information TechnologySoftware Test/QA Engineer 25,000 – 45,000Database Administrator (Oracle/SQL Server/Sybase) 35,000 – 70,000Multimedia/Graphical/Web Designer 22,000 – 45,000Project Manager 45,000 – 75,000

Banking and InsuranceBusiness Analyst 48,000 – 70,000Pensions Actuary (Part-Qualified) 50,000 – 70,000Banking (graduate entry) 25,000 – 28,000

This survey was provided by Brightwater and the complete survey is

available at www.brightwater.ie

Careers in Science

SCIENCE AT UCD | 17

Careers in Science

Forensic Science

Dr Sheila Willis

Director of Forensic Laboratory

BSc (Hons) Chemistry, PhD Chemistry

I can trace my interest in science to my

father’s influence and encouragement from

particular teachers. UCD was a very positive

exciting experience for me and although I

flirted with botany for a while, Chemistry

was my main interest. I was fascinated by

my first exposure to organometallic

Chemistry at the Youth Science fortnight in

London. I later carried out research in this

area with Professor A.R. Manning and left

UCD with a PhD in 1977 and a very keen

interest in mountaineering!

After two years as Chief Chemist in

Clondalkin Paper Mills, I joined the fledgling

Forensic Science Laboratory where I have

been privileged to progress to the Director

post I now hold. Initially the wide range of

analytical techniques in the laboratory

attracted me but I now realise that the mix of

science to real life applications with tangible

outcomes suits my skills. I also enjoy the

professional company of like-minded people.

My career has paralleled significant

developments in forensic science, which has

resulted in a continuous learning experience

for me. This has satisfied the interest in

knowledge that first attracted me to a career

in science.

Working in ScienceBiotechnology

Dr Valerie CullenSenior Scientist for Link MedicineBSc (Hons) Pharmacology,PhD Pharmacology

I really feel I got an excellent education in the

Bachelor of Science programme in UCD. I

studied Pharmacology, Biochemistry and

Chemistry in my second year, and specialised

in Pharmacology for my two remaining years.

We had a great balance of practical work and

formal lectures, and the staff were great

teachers. I really loved it, and it was a natural

decision for me to stay on and conduct my

graduate studies, also in Pharmacology

(specifically on the pulmonary system). I took

some time off from research after my PhD to

do clinical biochemistry in a large hospital

lab, and then I moved to London’s Institute of

Psychiatry to conduct two years of post-

doctoral research on neurodegenerative

diseases. I continued this theme with my

second postdoctoral fellowship in Harvard

Medical School/Brigham and Women’s

Hospital in Boston, USA, where I specialised in

Parkinson’s disease. After four years at

Harvard, I am now a Senior Scientist at a

small biotech company in Boston called Link

Medicine. We are investigating a drug

candidate for the treatment of Parkinson’s

disease, and evaluating its potential use in

other indications also. My day-to-day job

involves cell modelling, assay development,

literature reviews and liaison with outside

parties and collaborators.

Research

Dr Simon PlunkettAstrophysicistBSc (Hons) Physics, PhD Physics

My UCD education gave me a solid

foundation in physics and related sciences

that has served me very well in my career.

UCD also taught me the critical thinking

and analysis skills that are even more

important than pure academic knowledge.

One of the best things about studying

Physics at UCD was the close interaction

between students and lecturers. Help was

always available, and lively discussions

were encouraged. I chose to stay at UCD

after graduation to do a PhD degree in

Physics. Following my time at UCD, I spent

three years at the University of

Birmingham in England as a postdoctoral

researcher. From there, I moved to the

United States to work at the Naval

Research Laboratory in Washington, DC,

where I have remained since 1997. I now

carry out research in solar astrophysics and

‘space weather’ (the practical impacts of

the Sun on human activities in space),

using experiments on spacecraft and

numerical models that I have helped to

develop. I never imagined that I would

end up doing this when I first entered

UCD, but it’s been a great ride so far!

Imag

e co

urte

sy o

f N

ASA.

18 | SCIENCE AT UCD

Management

Mr Micéal Whelan

Project Manager, Communications

BSc (Hons) Geology, MSc, MBA

I thoroughly enjoyed studying Geology at

UCD. The enthusiasm of the lecturers was

contagious and the practicals and field

trips were always great fun. On

graduating I completed an MSc in

Petroleum Geology at Aberdeen

University. I then joined Shell as a

Petroleum Geologist.

During my 10-year career, which included

a period working on drilling locations, I

was a member of multi-disciplinary and

multi-cultural teams charged with the

exploration and development of

hydrocarbon fields both offshore and

onshore. My last role in Shell

headquarters was as part of a consultancy

group whose objective was to provide

global Shell companies with strategic

solutions to their complex technical,

operational and investment problems.

I returned to Ireland in 2000 and

completed an MBA in UCD’s Michael

Smurfit Graduate School of Business. I

then joined NovaUCD, the Innovation and

Technology Transfer Centre at UCD. At

NovaUCD I am responsible for the

development, management and execution

of NovaUCD’s internal and external

communication strategies.

Information Technology

Mr Dan Lynch

Technical Consultant for FINEOS

BSc (Hons) Computer Science, MSc

Studying in UCD instilled in me a sense of

pride in my work. The UCD School of

Computer Science and Informatics has

transitioned from a small fledgling

department to become a major centre for

research in its field. With this drive and

ambition in the academic staff, I could not

help but be inspired in my studies.

Upon completion of my primary degree I

undertook a Masters by research in

Computer Science, which allowed me to

explore my main area of interest,

Information Retrieval for mobile users. My

college experience, both on an academic

and social level, has provided me with a

wealth of skills.

I now work in the software industry as a

Technical Consultant for FINEOS, who are a

provider of banking and insurance software.

I work mainly using the Java programming

language but am also required to be

proficient in SQL Server, DB2 and Oracle. In

my current role I am required to travel

extensively to customer sites, where I

represent my company, and the technical

and interpersonal skills acquired over the

course of my studies have proved invaluable

in my career.

Conservation

Dr Catherine O’Connell

Chief Executive with Irish Peatland

Conservation Council

BSc (Hons) Botany & Zoology, PhD

I graduated from UCD with a science

degree specialising in Botany and Zoology. I

followed this with a PhD study focusing on

peatlands. During my time at college the

Irish Peatland Conservation Council (IPCC)

was set up due to concern among

academics and government agencies about

the destruction of peatland habitats without

any conservation plan in place. As a

postgraduate an opportunity arose for me

to join the Committee of Management of

this campaigning organisation.

For many years with the organisation my

initial focus was on education as I had

followed my primary degree with the

Higher Diploma in Education. I published

over 30 educational resources focusing on

peatlands, which have become recognised

by the Department of Education and

Science and are widely used in primary and

post primary schools education

programmes. In 2004, I was promoted to

Chief Executive with the IPCC and my role

has been to establish a centre of excellence

in peatland education, research and

conservation at the Bog of Allen Nature

Centre in County Kildare. I believe that a

degree in Science is a wonderful foundation

for any further work in nature conservation,

management, environmental education

and campaigning.

Careers in Science

SCIENCE AT UCD | 19

Science at UCD

20 | SCIENCE AT UCD

Teaching

Ms Fiona McKeever

Chemistry teacher (St Bede’s Catholic

Grammar School, Bradford, BD9 4BQ)

BSc (Hons) Chemistry, PGCE

Studying Chemistry in UCD provided me

with a great general understanding of

science and an in-depth view of Chemistry.

After completing my degree I was unsure of

what direction to take, but after consultation

with UCD’s careers service I was advised to try

substitute teaching and I haven’t looked back.

Through this experience I found I have the

ability to engage and enthuse the students

using the wonders of science. I applied to

Leeds University to complete a PGCE (post

graduate certificate in education), the English

equivalent of the HDIP/PGDE, which is

accepted in many countries around the world,

through the GTTR (graduate teacher training

registry) online.The selection process involved

a written exam and an interview with the

course leader. The course involved some time

based at university improving my academic

knowledge of teaching and teaching skills,

along with refreshing my subject expertise.

When I wasn’t at university I was on one of

two secondary school placements or the short

primary placement. The primary placement is

designed to enable you as a teacher to

understand the level of attainment of students

as they arrive at secondary school. Unlike the

traditional view of there being difficulties

obtaining a job in education I found it

relatively easy as science teachers are always in

demand. Teaching as a career choice has

changed a lot since I’ve been in the classroom

and there are many different opportunities

available both in or out of the classroom.

Marine Research

Dr Kenneth Whelan

Director, Marine Institute, Aquaculture

and Catchment Management Services

BSc Zoology, PhD

Dr Kenneth Whelan studied Zoology in

University College Dublin in the early 70s. He

joined the Inland Fisheries Trust Incorporated in

1975 and served with the IFT from 1975 to

1980. During this time he completed, through

UCD, a PhD study on the biology of Irish

ephemeroptera (mayflies). This research

included the development of novel techniques

for the restocking of these important insects.

He also carried out, on behalf of Bord na Móna

(the Irish Peat Board), a major environmental

impact assessment on the impact of peat bog

development on freshwater ecosystems in the

midlands and west of Ireland. He worked for

the Central Fisheries Board from 1980 to 1989,

where he acted as principal adviser to the

Board on salmon and sea trout stocks. His work

included detailed assessments of a wide range

of salmonid habitats and the compilation of

policy documents on the management of

salmon and sea trout stocks.

He was appointed Director and CEO of the

Salmon Research Agency in 1989 and served in

that capacity until his appointment, in July of

1999, as an Executive Director of the Marine

Institute. In this capacity he acts as adviser to

the Ministers and Department of

Communications, Energy and Natural

Resources and Department of Agriculture,

Fisheries and Food on all matters relating to

salmon and eel stocks.

Hospitals and Clinics

Dr Claire Moran

Clinical Embryologist

BSc (Hons) Pharmacology,

PhD Pharmacology

After my degree in Pharmacology I did a PhD

in Developmental Biology in Dr Carmel

Hensey’s lab in the Conway Institute. My first

introduction to developmental biology was

during my undergraduate 4th year project.

This project, and subsequently my thesis, was

based on the development of the embryo

from the time of fertilisation. The embryos

we studied were from the African clawed

frog, Xenopus laevis. Studies on these frog

embryos have provided us with much of

what we know about human embryo

development today.

After my PhD I was employed by a fertility

clinic in Kilkenny and I am currently training

as a clinical embryologist in their IVF

laboratory. A typical day’s work involves egg

collections, inseminating eggs, culturing

embryos, freezing embryos and embryo

transfers. It’s a fascinating job as you get to

create human embryos every day and make

people’s dreams come true. It is a highly

rewarding career and every day presents a

new challenge. As an embryologist you are

part of a medical team which includes fertility

consultants, doctors and fertility nurse

specialists. Embryologists are closely involved

in the diagnosis of a patient’s fertility

problems and at each step of a patient’s

treatment.

CONTACT DETAILSUCD Science Programme Office,Room 128,Science Centre – Hub,University College Dublin,Belfield,Dublin 4.Tel: (01) 716 2375Fax: (01) 716 2439E-mail: [email protected]: www.ucd.ie/science

This booklet (Version 4 2010) is intended to assist prospective UCD students and the information

is given in good faith. It is not, however, an official publication of the university and does not bind

the university in any way. The information provided in this booklet is correct at the time of going

to press but degree programmes are subject to continuing development and the university

reserves the right to make changes at any time, before or after a student’s admission.

science at ucd 2010

Documents