At FutureNeuro, we believe research should reach far beyond the lab bench. It should spark curiosity, inform patient care, influence policy, and empower people. Driving that mission forward are our Education and Public Engagement (EPE) Champions—team members who dedicate their time and talent to making brain science accessible and meaningful to all. 

Recognised by Research Ireland as individuals who contribute significantly to public engagement—leading or supporting five or more EPE activities annually—FutureNeuro’s 15+ Champions are shaping a vibrant culture of outreach. Through hands-on workshops, creative collaborations, and digital storytelling, their work is inspiring the next generation, elevating patient voices, and helping to change how society sees science. 

Highlighting Our EPE Champions’ Work 

Over the past year, these champions have gone above and beyond to deliver a broad range of outreach activities, which include collaborating with patients, co-delivering bespoke events, and developing digital resources. Their efforts continue to kick-start conversations that help shape our research and inspire the next generation of neuroscientists. 

Stories, Stitches and Science 

PhD student Sujithra Srinivas was part of Cut from the Same Cloth, a national storytelling and textile-based project that connected 164 women from minority communities with researchers at UCD Conway Institute. Led by artist Lorna Donlon, the collaboration helped demystify science while creating space for diverse voices in future research. A digital exhibition is now live, with a national tour of five venues ahead. 

Dravet Syndrome Ireland Symposium 2024 

At the 2024 Dravet Syndrome Ireland Symposium, FutureNeuro researchers joined families and clinicians for a day of shared insights and support. PhD researcher Rafael Cipolat  regularly supports the event and described it as “a vital hub where research findings are shared, and insights from families shape our understanding.” The team continued their involvement at the 2025 event this April. 

Science in the Community: Soapbox Science & Pint of Science 

PhD student Tammy Strickland, who studies circadian rhythms and epilepsy at RCSI, coordinates and participates in public events like Soapbox Science and Pint of Science to make research more accessible and to build connections. “Public engagement has immense value for me, both as a scientist and as an individual,” Tammy said. “It’s taught me to truly listen.” 

Fun Science with Cell Explorers 

As coordinators of our FutureNeuro Cell Explorers, researchers Amaya Sanz Rodriguez and Mona Heiland have led DNA workshops for over 300 students in local schools this year. For the first time, in collaboration with CORE Youth Service, Inchicore For All, and Youthreach East, the team also brought hands-on science to young people and families seeking additional support. They continued this work at Youthreach East EXPO at DCU, where over 100 young people explored the exciting world of genetics. 

Engaging the Public with MicroRNAs 

Our commitment to engage the public with our research spans the whole team and FutureNeuro Director David Henshall has played a key role in public engagement around microRNAs—tiny molecules with big therapeutic potential. His book Fine-Tuning Life explores their role in biology and brain health, and his insights have been shared widely through podcasts such as Epilepsy Sparks, The Dissenter, and Futureproof on Newstalk. 

Shaping the Future of Genomic Research 

Deputy Director Gianpiero Cavalleri and Laura Whelan lead Ireland’s contribution to the EU’s Genomic Data Infrastructure (GDI), creating a secure system for sharing genomic data or cancer, rare disease, and precision medicine research. At the centre of the project is a dedicated Public and Patient Steering Group being led by Laura, which ensures patient perspectives are shaping every step. 

Science Night at Maynooth University 

Professor Lorna Lopez and team are regularly involved in public engagement events and delivered creative, hands-on activities for families to explore sleep, brain function, and DNA at Maynooth University’s Science Night. FutureNeuro PhD student Jake Kennedy has supported many other engagement initiatives throughout the year, including a Sensory Friendly Science Night that created an inclusive space for children and parents to experience the wonder of biology. 

The Engagement Ripple Effect 

The impact of our EPE Champions extends well beyond individual events. By mentoring others, supporting peers, and embedding engagement into their everyday work, they’ve created a ripple effect across FutureNeuro. This culture of collaboration is also supported by our Operations Team—many of whom are Champions themselves—who help build capacity for lasting engagement.

What’s Next? 

With new engagement opportunities emerging across the Centre, we encourage more researchers to get involved. Whether through public talks, school visits, or digital storytelling, there are lots of ways to bring neuroscience closer to society. 

Learn more about FutureNeuro’s EPE activities and how to get involved: https://futureneurocentre.ie/engagement/