Bright Sparks

What contributions has Irish science made to unraveling the mysteries of the universe through space exploration and astronomy? Prof. Shane Bergin learns the history of the observatory in Birr, where he finds out the importance of studying the heavens, and meets the Irish scientists working in the orbit of Earth, Mars and even The Sun. From astronauts in the making to developing sun cream for rockets, Shane uncovers some of the intricacies that are involved for our scientists in space exploration.

How can Ireland help turn the tide against climate change? Prof. Shane Bergin learns the difference between climate and weather, how to reap the benefits of wind and wave energy in Ireland, and how we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels through the use of biogas. It poses the question should scientists get involved in the political debate around climate change, or is the research their only responsibility?

Resources - How can Irish research help us utilise and protect our most precious resource; our food and water? Prof. Shane Bergin takes a tour down our waterways learning how we keep them safe from bacteria and disease. From the rivers and the lakes to the sea, Shane discovers the wealth of life and information that can be found within the deep blue, yet with only a small group of researchers across the globe it remains a zone that is vastly unknown to us. Shane also uncovers the role science plays in our farming and food production, and how the way we treat our animals is affecting the food we eat.

How do we make our bodies stronger or rebuild the parts that don’t work? Prof. Shane Bergin meets the researchers around the country who are trying to enhance and augment our bodies, to cure ailments and fight disease. Shane learns about potential of stem cells in medicine, but when rejuvenation within our own bodies is no longer an option, it’s robots that can help us survive. From ekso bionic suits to help a paralysed man walk to a robot assistant, Shane also uncovers the world of robotics and what Irish scientists are doing to help us repair, rebuild and create our ultimate super body.

Theres plenty of room at the bottom - What impact is Irish technology having on our lives and what are the tangible results of Irish research? Prof. Shane Bergin guides us through the field of nanotechnology which is shaping our modern world and where Irish research, at centres like CRANN in Trinity College Dublin, is leading. Shane looks at the scientists breaking ground in nanoscience and the implications of their work, from software systems developed in Limerick, to the future of drug manufacturing and building robots to assist dementia patients.

How are Irish researchers helping the global battle against diseases like cancer and Motor Neurone Disease. Prof. Shane Bergin talks to scientists committed to switching off diseases from immunologists to microbiologists.

Where did life come from? Prof. Shane Bergin learns about the origins of life on Earth and how Darwins “Tree of Life” might actually be a “Web of Life” and about unlocking the evolutionary secrets behind animals like bats, dogs and fruit flies. Shane explores the genetic line that connects us physically, to our ancestors and in an economic environment where genetic research is underfunded due to questions of applicability, one Irish company Equinome, is breaking the mould. Voices in this episode include Prof. James McInerney, Prof. Emma Teeling, Prof. Kay Nolan, Prof. Aoife McLysaght, Prof. Emmeline Hill

Geneticist Emma Teeling opens the conversation on what makes you a scientist with a lovely description of the thirst for knowledge which drives science and scientists to discover. What happens when you enable bright people to follow their curiosity and solve the world’s problems? Bright Sparks, an exploration of ideas innovation and discovery is an 8 part radio series presented by physicist Dr. Shane Bergin.