Topical issues have always provided inspiration for BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition hopefuls, and this year is no different.
Dominant questions such as climate change have permeated the competition in recent years, and the 2021 competition has seen many participants submit projects related to the coronavirus pandemic.
More than 30 of the projects shortlisted for Young Scientist this year relate to COVID-19, exploring the physical, social, environmental and cultural effects of the virus and more. Here are a handful that stand out.
Tens of BY Young Scientist projects are focused on COVID-19. Pic: Chris Bellew / Fennells
Sensor data in a time of coronavirus
WATCH: Dr Tony Holohan pays tribute to BT Young Scientist participants
Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan has praised the participants of this year’s BT Young Scientist and Technologist Exhibition (BTYSTE) and reflected on the importance of scientific research in fighting COVID-19.
Speaking in a pre-recorded video message, Dr Holohan said taking part in Young Scientist despite the pandemic was an ‘amazing achievement’ for 1,000 or so second level students entered in this year’s virtual competition.
Dr Holohan went onto say that ‘we knew nothing of this pandemic 12 months ago’ but that science and research have ‘helped us to get to a point of understanding’.