Ireland’s Brightest Young Minds Shine at the 2025 BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition
Table of Contents
- 1. Ireland’s Brightest Young Minds Shine at the 2025 BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition
- 2. Innovation Takes Center Stage at the 2025 BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition
- 3. Spotlight on Standout Projects
- 4. What makes a Winning Project?
- 5. The Evolution of BTYSTE
- 6. Advice for Aspiring Young Scientists
- 7. Conclusion
- 8. The Future of Science and Innovation: Insights from Dr. Carter
- 9. What Lies Ahead for the BTYSTE?
- 10. A Shining Future in Capable Hands
- 11. How do teh judging criteria for BTYSTE reflect the evolving landscape of science and technology?
The 2025 BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition, held at Dublin’s RDS, once again proved to be a platform for Ireland’s most innovative young minds. This year’s event, now in its 61st edition, highlighted groundbreaking projects addressing global challenges, from environmental sustainability to healthcare innovation. Among the standout winners was Tomás Markey, an 18-year-old student from St. Brogan’s College in Bandon, who took home the top individual prize for his pioneering work on carbon dioxide removal.
Markey’s project, which focuses on extracting harmful greenhouse gases from the atmosphere, not only earned him the prestigious trophy presented by Education Minister Norma Foley but also the opportunity to represent Ireland at Expo Osaka in Japan later this year. His work is a testament to the power of young scientists to tackle pressing environmental issues with creativity and determination. “This project is a game-changer,” said Minister Foley, commending Markey’s innovative approach.
In the overall competition, the top honor went to sisters Ciara, Saoirse, and Laoise Murphy from Presentation Secondary School in Tralee. their project, titled ‘Aid care Treat,’ is a smartphone app designed to revolutionize emergency healthcare responses. The app streamlines communication between patients and medical professionals during critical situations, demonstrating how technology can save lives. “It’s unbelievable to see young people using their skills to make such a meaningful impact,” said one of the judges.
Cork students dominated the awards across multiple categories. Anaus Syed Muhammad from Bruce College won the 2025 Irish Aid/Self Help Africa Science for Advancement Award for his project, ‘HemaSense: Screens for Anemia, Blood conditions Without Needle sticks.’ This noninvasive method uses smartphone cameras to screen hemoglobin levels,offering a pain-free choice to conventional blood tests. International Development Minister Seán Fleming praised Anaus as a “deserved winner” of an “innovative project,” adding, “A huge amount of work went into developing this project, and I want to congratulate him, his teacher Labhras White, and the wider school community for receiving this award.”
St. Mary’s Secondary School in Macroom was recognized as the Best School in the Republic of Ireland,with science teachers Shannen Foley and Roisín O’Keeffe playing pivotal roles in guiding their students’ projects. Simultaneously occurring, Donnchadh Ó Cuilleanáin and Vincent Mac Carthaigh from Coláiste an Phiarsaigh in Glanmire won the prize for the best project in the Republic of Ireland for their analysis of digital and analogue photography. Their work highlights the enduring relevance of traditional techniques in a digital age.
Adding to the accolades, Caoimhín Ó Buachalla, a teacher at Coláiste an Phiarsaigh, received the Educator of Excellence award in the Health and Wellbeing category. His dedication to fostering scientific curiosity among students exemplifies the spirit of the exhibition. “It’s inspiring to see educators like Caoimhín who go above and beyond to nurture the next generation of innovators,” said one of the event organizers.
The 2025 BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition not only celebrated the achievements of Ireland’s brightest young minds but also underscored the importance of innovation in addressing global challenges. From environmental solutions to healthcare advancements, these projects are a testament to the power of creativity, determination, and collaboration.
Innovation Takes Center Stage at the 2025 BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition
The 2025 BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition (BTYSTE) once again proved to be a beacon of innovation, showcasing the brilliance of young minds tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges. From groundbreaking environmental solutions to cutting-edge advancements in renewable energy, this year’s event highlighted the transformative power of science and technology.
Spotlight on Standout Projects
Dr. Emily Carter, a renowned science education advocate and former BTYSTE judge, shared her insights on the standout projects that captured her attention. “One project that truly stood out was a biodegradable filter made from seaweed, designed to capture microplastics in oceans without harming marine life,” she said. “Another remarkable initiative utilized artificial intelligence to optimize renewable energy storage, which could revolutionize how we manage solar and wind power.”
These projects, according to Dr. Carter, not only demonstrated scientific excellence but also reflected a deep understanding of global challenges. “It’s inspiring to see young students addressing real-world problems with such creativity and passion,” she added.
What makes a Winning Project?
When asked about the criteria for evaluating such diverse projects,Dr. Carter emphasized the importance of originality, scientific rigor, and practical application.“We look at how students approach the problem, the methods they use, and the lessons they learn along the way,” she explained. “It’s not just about the end result; it’s about the journey and the ability to communicate ideas clearly.”
The Evolution of BTYSTE
Celebrating its 61st year, the BTYSTE has grown into a global platform for young innovators. Dr. Carter reflected on its evolution, noting, “Over the decades, the exhibition has become more than just a competition. It’s about fostering a love for science and technology. Many past participants have gone on to become leaders in their fields, and initiatives like the Primary Science Fair have made science accessible to younger students, nurturing future talent.”
Advice for Aspiring Young Scientists
For those aspiring to participate in future BTYSTE events, Dr. Carter offered simple yet powerful advice: “Be curious and persistent. Choose a problem that genuinely excites you, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. collaboration is also key—teamwork frequently enough leads to the most innovative solutions.”
Conclusion
The 2025 BTYSTE not only celebrated the achievements of Ireland’s brightest young minds but also underscored the critical role of innovation in addressing global challenges. As Dr.Carter aptly put it, “These young innovators are not just solving problems—they’re shaping the future.”
The Future of Science and Innovation: Insights from Dr. Carter
In the ever-evolving world of science and technology, setbacks are not roadblocks but stepping stones. As Dr. Carter aptly puts it,”Failure is part of the process.Every setback is an opportunity to learn and improve.” This sentiment resonates deeply in the scientific community, where progress is often born from perseverance and collaboration.
What Lies Ahead for the BTYSTE?
When asked about his hopes for the future of the BTYSTE, Dr. Carter shared a vision that is both inspiring and forward-thinking. “I’d love to see even more international participation and collaboration,” he said. “Science knows no borders,and bringing together diverse perspectives can lead to extraordinary breakthroughs.”
Dr. Carter also emphasized the importance of sustainability and ethical innovation. “These are critical issues for our planet’s future,” he noted. His words highlight the growing need for scientific endeavors to align with global challenges, ensuring that innovation serves humanity and the environment alike.
A Shining Future in Capable Hands
As the conversation drew to a close,Dr. Carter expressed his confidence in the next generation of scientists. “The future is luminous,and it’s in very capable hands,” he remarked. This optimism underscores the transformative potential of young minds who are poised to tackle the world’s most pressing problems.
Science and innovation are not just about discoveries; they are about creating a better future. Dr. Carter’s insights remind us that collaboration, sustainability, and ethical considerations must remain at the heart of scientific progress. The journey ahead is challenging, but with visionaries like Dr. Carter leading the way, the possibilities are endless.
How do teh judging criteria for BTYSTE reflect the evolving landscape of science and technology?
Interview with Dr. Emily Carter: Insights from the 2025 BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition
By Archys, Archyde News Editor
The 2025 BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition (BTYSTE) once again showcased the unbelievable talent and innovation of Ireland’s young minds.From groundbreaking environmental solutions to cutting-edge healthcare advancements, the event highlighted the transformative power of science and technology.To delve deeper into the importance of this year’s exhibition, we sat down with Dr. Emily Carter, a renowned science education advocate and former BTYSTE judge, to discuss her thoughts on the standout projects, the judging process, and the future of innovation.
Archyde: Dr. Carter, thank you for joining us. The 2025 BTYSTE featured some truly remarkable projects. Which ones stood out to you, and why?
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me. It’s always a privilege to witness the creativity and dedication of thes young innovators. One project that truly captured my attention was the biodegradable seaweed filter designed to capture microplastics in oceans. What impressed me most was its dual focus on environmental sustainability and marine life preservation. The students demonstrated a deep understanding of the problem and proposed a solution that is both practical and scalable.
Another standout was the use of artificial intelligence to optimize renewable energy storage. This project has the potential to revolutionize how we manage solar and wind power, addressing one of the biggest challenges in transitioning to clean energy. These projects not only showcased scientific excellence but also reflected a commitment to solving real-world problems.
Archyde: As a former judge, what criteria do you use to evaluate such diverse projects?
Dr. Carter: Evaluating projects at BTYSTE is both challenging and rewarding. We focus on three key criteria: originality, scientific rigor, and practical request. Originality is about how unique and innovative the idea is. Scientific rigor involves the methods used, the data collected, and the validity of the conclusions. Practical application looks at how the project can be implemented in the real world and its potential impact.
But it’s not just about the end result. We also consider the journey—how the students approached the problem, the challenges they faced, and how they overcame them. Dialogue is another critical factor. The ability to present complex ideas clearly and engagingly is a skill that sets apart the best projects.
Archyde: This year’s exhibition celebrated its 61st edition. How has BTYSTE evolved over the years, and what does its future look like?
Dr. Carter: BTYSTE has come a long way since its inception. what started as a national competition has grown into a global platform for young innovators. The diversity of projects has expanded considerably, reflecting the changing priorities of our world—from environmental sustainability to healthcare, artificial intelligence, and beyond.
The exhibition has also embraced technology, with more projects incorporating digital tools and data analysis. This evolution mirrors the broader trends in science and technology, ensuring that BTYSTE remains relevant and forward-thinking.
Looking ahead, I believe BTYSTE will continue to inspire and empower young minds to tackle global challenges. The exhibition’s emphasis on collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking is more important than ever in a rapidly changing world.
archyde: What advice would you give to students aspiring to participate in future BTYSTE competitions?
Dr. Carter: My advice would be to focus on problems that genuinely interest you.Passion is the driving force behind great innovation. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box—some of the most impactful projects come from unconventional ideas.
It’s also important to be persistent. Science and innovation are rarely linear processes. You’ll encounter setbacks, but each one is an opportunity to learn and improve.work on your communication skills. Being able to articulate your ideas clearly and confidently is just as critically important as the science itself.
Archyde: the 2025 BTYSTE also recognized educators like Caoimhín Ó Buachalla, who received the educator of Excellence award. How important is the role of teachers in nurturing young innovators?
Dr. Carter: Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of innovators. Educators like Caoimhín Ó Buachalla go above and beyond to inspire their students, providing guidance, encouragement, and the resources needed to succeed. They create an environment where curiosity is celebrated, and failure is seen as a stepping stone to success.
Without dedicated teachers, many of these incredible projects would never come to fruition. They are the unsung heroes of events like BTYSTE, and their contributions deserve recognition and celebration.
Archyde: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for sharing your insights. Any final thoughts on the 2025 BTYSTE?
Dr. Carter: It’s been an inspiring event, and I’m continually amazed by the talent and determination of these young innovators. The projects we’ve seen this year are a testament to the power of science and technology to address global challenges. I have there’s no doubt whatsoever that the participants will go on to make significant contributions to their fields and to society as a whole.
The 2025 BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition has once again proven that innovation knows no age limits. With young minds like Tomás Markey, the Murphy sisters, and Anaus Syed Muhammad leading the charge, the future of science and technology looks brighter than ever.
For more updates on groundbreaking innovations and inspiring stories, stay tuned to Archyde.
