DCU President's Awards for Research 2024
Congratulations to the winners of the 2024 President’s Awards for Research, which recognise researchers with sustained contributions in their field, those making impact early in their careers, as well as the most stand alone innovative projects.
This year there are three awardees across three categories, hailing from three different faculties.
Vice President for Research, Prof John Doyle said:
“Congratulations to Prof. Dunne, Dr Hopper and Dr Marks on their awards. Their dedication to applied research and expanding knowledge to meet global challenges is inspiring. Almost a year on from the launch of the university’s strategic plan, we have made progress against ambitious targets for research. However, today represents a chance to look past the numbers and bring it back to the human level, and put three faces to some excellent research.”
Dr Danny Marks
President’s Research Award for Early Career Staff
Awardee: Dr Danny Marks, School of Law & Government
Dr Danny Marks’ research focuses on evaluating the efficacy of climate adaptation governance, inequality and climate change, as well as the efficacy of natural and man made interventions.
Dr Marks is also taking a leading role in several major ongoing research projects, including an innovative EPA funded grant where he and Dr Darren Clarke from the School of History and Geography are assessing Ireland’s current climate adaptation policy. Danny has also secured funding on a grant examining the proliferation of nature based carbon sinks in Southeast Asia.
Prof Nicholas Dunne
Presidents Research Award for Academic Staff
Awardee: Professor Nicholas Dunne, School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering
The President’s Research Award for Academic Staff recognises outstanding achievements and research excellence over an extended period of time. This year’s award goes to Professor Nicholas Dunne.
Prof. Dunne’s international collaborative research programmes involving academia, industry and clinicians, have significantly impacted biomaterials and medical device technology advancements.
As well, Prof. Dunne's leadership at Biodesign Europe has significantly contributed to driving internal collaboration, formation of research clusters, implementing research strategy, and advancement of DCU’s open research agenda. His collaboration with Irish Medical Device company PBC Biomed on new bone fracture treatment was awarded ‘Breakthrough Device Designation’ by the FDA.
Dr Louise Hopper
Presidents Awards Research Impact
Awardee: Dr Louise Hopper, School of Psychology
The purpose of the President’s Research Impact Award is to recognise and reward those whose research at DCU has led to excellent impact outside of academia. This year, Dr Louise Hopper is recognised for her work in dementia and ageing.
Dr Louise Hopper's research has focused on quality of life for older adults, particularly those with dementia, as well as the ethical use of health data. She has taken a dynamic approach incorporating psychosocial, technology and eHealth interventions.