Get into Geoscience awarded Research Ireland Discover Funding

The Get into Geoscience programme, led by the iCRAG Research Ireland Centre for Applied Geosciences, has been awarded over €234,000 in funding. Co-funded through the Research Ireland Discover Programme and by the Department of Education, the significant investment will enable Get into Geoscience to expand its reach, engage more students and teachers across Ireland and inspire the next generation to explore geoscience and its crucial role in tackling global challenges.

The funding award was announced by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, and Minister for Education and Youth, Helen McEntee TD, who outlined a €6.5 million investment in 40 projects designed to enhance public engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The funded initiatives aim to drive innovation in STEM education and contribute to Ireland’s industry, enterprise, and societal progress.

Get into Geoscience is an innovative education programme designed to introduce young people and second-level school teachers to geoscience. Since its launch in 2018, the programme has engaged thousands of students and teachers, demonstrating the relevance of geoscience to everyday life—from climate change to sustainable resource management. With support from the Research Ireland Discover Programme, iCRAG will develop a new transition year module, launch a national art competition, and create an innovative career paths portal, all of which will be accessible nationwide.

Elspeth Sinclair, Education Manager at iCRAG, welcomed the funding, stating: “We are so happy and excited to receive this support from the Research Ireland Discover Programme. Through Get into Geoscience, we aim to spark curiosity and inspire students to see geoscience as an exciting and impactful field of study and career path. This funding will transform our ability to do this.”

Dr Fergus McAuliffe, Engagement and Communications Manager, added: “Education and public engagement are central to iCRAG’s mission. This funding allows us to build on the success of Get into Geoscience and ensure that geoscience education is accessible, engaging, and relevant to young people across Ireland.”

Hannah Binner, who is joining the team as Project Coordinator for Get into Geoscience, elaborated further: “Education about geoscience is critical to understanding and adapting to Ireland’s changing climate. This programme will help young people to understand more about the links between climate and geoscience.”

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, emphasised the significance of the Research Ireland Discover Programme: “These Discover-funded projects are crucial for triggering curiosity and encouraging greater participation in STEM across all education levels and within our communities. In particular, this investment will help foster a deeper understanding of STEM among underrepresented voices and inspire many of them to potentially become more involved in studies and careers in these fields. This will empower future generations to tackle societal challenges and share innovative solutions.”

Minister for Education and Youth, Helen McEntee TD said: “Advancing a greater awareness and appreciation of STEM among our communities can play an instrumental role in inspiring students of all ages. STEM stretches far beyond the classroom and lecture halls, and the projects we are supporting will help thread theories through to real-world application and relevance. The Department of Education is proud to partner again with the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science through this Research Ireland Discover Programme.” 

For more information about Get into Geoscience, visit (opens in a new window)www.getintogeoscience.com.