DCU Water Institute researchers recognised in Research Ireland National Challenge Fund
DCU Water Institute - 10 Years of Discovery, Innovation and Impact
As the DCU Water Institute celebrates 10 years of discovery, innovation and impact, we are proud to highlight two major achievements from our research community. Two projects led by Water Institute researchers have been awarded funding as runner-up projects in the Research Ireland National Challenge Fund, receiving support in the Prize Phase of the programme.
This recognition underscores the strength of our multidisciplinary expertise and our contribution to addressing environmental and public health challenges.
Two Innovative projects recognised
Two teams with key DCU Water Institute members have been awarded a share of the 8-million-euro fund under the Healthy Environment for All Challenge:
- The Bohemian Project, led by Dr David O’Connor
- The RESTART Project, co-led by Dr Ciprian Briciu-Burghina and Prof Fiona Regan
Both projects previously secured support in the Grow Phase and have now advanced to the Prize Phase following a highly competitive assessment.
Advancing environmental and public health research
The Bohemian Project integrates environmental monitoring, bioaerosol analysis and public health research to improve early detection and understanding of airborne contaminants. Its findings will support national preparedness and strengthen environmental surveillance.
The RESTART Project focuses on developing rapid sensor technologies that detect bacterial contamination in coastal and recreational waters. Real-time monitoring has the potential to significantly improve public health protection and inform coastal management practices.
Together, these projects highlight the type of interdisciplinary, impact-driven research that defines the DCU Water Institute. They blend scientific insight, engineering, environmental monitoring and digital innovation to protect water resources and safeguard communities.
A milestone aligned with our 10th Anniversary
This national recognition comes as the Water Institute celebrates a decade of research excellence and real-world impact. Since 2015, the Institute has worked to address pressing water challenges through science, technology and collaboration. The success of Bohemian and RESTART reflects the commitment and ambition of our research community and aligns closely with our mission.
Commenting on the achievement
We are incredibly proud of David, Ciprian, Fiona and their teams. Their success illustrates the power of cross-disciplinary research and the importance of advancing tools that support environmental health and water security. It also highlights the contributions of students, researchers, technical team members and collaborators who drive the Water Institute’s work every day.
Looking ahead
As we embark on our next decade, these achievements strengthen our commitment to advancing knowledge and developing technologies that protect water environments and support public wellbeing. We look forward to following the progress of both projects and supporting their ongoing contributions to national and international water science.
For the original announcement from DCU Research, visit:
https://www.dcu.ie/research/news/2025/dec/two-dcu-projects-awarded-funding-runners-research-ireland-national-challenge