DISCOVER. EXPERIENCE. CHOOSE. SCIENCE AT UCD … · DISCOVER. EXPERIENCE. CHOOSE. UCD Science Programme Office University College Dublin. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Degrees in Science

SCIENCE AT UCD 2009

DISCOVER. EXPERIENCE. CHOOSE.

UCD Science Programme OfficeUniversity College Dublin

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Degrees in ScienceCourse Duration Minimum CAO Entry Requirements

points (2007) Irish UK

Science Omnibus 3 or 4 years 305 Entry requirements: Irish OD3, GCSE/A Level: English OC, DN008 English OD3, Maths HD3/OB3, Maths OB, Lab Science Subject OC,

Lab Science Subject OD3, 3 Additional Matriculation Subjects2 Additional Matriculation Subjects

Actuarial & Financial 4 years 555 Entry requirements: Irish OD3, GCSE/A Level: Studies English OD3, Maths HB3, English OC, Maths AB, DN020 3 Additional Matriculation Subjects 4 Additional Matriculation Subjects

Archaeology & Geology 3 years N/A Entry requirements: Irish OD3, English OD3, GCSE/A Level: English OC,DN093 (New course) Other language OD3, Mathematics HD3/OB3, Other language OC, Maths OB,

Lab Science Subject OD3, Lab Science Subject OC, 1 Additional Matriculation Subject 2 Additional Matriculation Subjects

Biochemistry 4 years 370 Entry requirements: Irish OD3, English OD3, GCSE/A Level: English OC, & Molecular Biology Maths HD3/OB3, Lab Science Subject OD3, Maths OB, Lab Science Subject OC, DN039 2 Additional Matriculation Subjects 3 Additional Matriculation Subjects

Climate & Earth System 4 years 335 Entry requirements: Irish OD3, English OD3, GCSE/A Level: English OC,Science Maths HC3, Lab Science Subject OD3, Maths AC, Lab Science Subject OC,DN038 2 Additional Matriculation Subjects 3 Additional Matriculation Subjects

Computer Science 4 years 300 Entry requirements: GCSE/A Level: DN030 Irish OD3, English OD3, English OC, Maths OB,

Maths HD3/OB3, Lab Science Subject OD3, Lab Science Subject OC, 2 Additional Matriculation Subjects 3 Additional Matriculation Subjects

Mathematical Science 4 years 335 Entry requirements: Irish OD3, English OD3, GCSE/A Level: English OC, DN032 Maths HB1, Lab Science Subject OD3, Maths AB, Lab Science Subject OC,

2 Additional Matriculation Subjects 3 Additional Matriculation Subjects

Medicinal Chemistry 4 years 330 Entry requirements: Irish OD3, English OD3, GCSE/A Level: English OC, & Chemical Biology Maths HD3/OB3, Lab Science Subject OD3, Maths OB, Lab Science Subject OC,DN035 2 Additional Matriculation Subjects 3 Additional Matriculation Subjects

Neuroscience 4 years 465 Entry requirements: Irish OD3, English OD3, GCSE/A Level: English OC, DN036 Maths HD3/OB3, Lab Science Subject OD3, Maths OB, Lab Science Subject OC,


Pharmacology 4 years 420 Entry requirements: Irish OD3, English OD3, GCSE/A Level: English OC,DN034 Maths HD3/OB3, Lab Science Subject OD3, Maths OB, Lab Science Subject OC,


Physics with Astronomy 4 years 415 Entry requirements: Irish OD3, English OD3, GCSE/A Level: English OC,& Space Science Maths HD3/OB3, Lab Science Subject OD3, Maths OB, Lab Science Subject OC, DN033 2 Additional Matriculation Subjects 3 Additional Matriculation Subjects

Additional requirement: Additional requirement:HC3 in Physics or Mathematics or AC in Physics or Mathematics orApplied Mathematics Advanced Mathematics

Theoretical Physics 4 years 345 Entry requirements: Irish OD3, GCSE/A Level: DN031 English OD3, Maths HB2, Physics HB2, English OC, Maths AB, Physics AB,


Science at UCD

Our dynamic and modern university is renowned, nationally and internationally, both for itsquality of education and pioneering research. Since 1854, our graduates have played a centralrole in the shaping of modern Ireland and in the conduct of international affairs.

Welcome to UCD Science

Today, University College Dublin is a vibrant and exciting centre of

learning where, through the Horizons programme, you can enhance

your learning experience by broadening your learning or driving

deeper into the subjects that interest you. Either way, you will

receive a first class education and a great opportunity for

personal development.

UCD has the largest Science programme in the country, providing

degree courses in biological, chemical, geological, mathematical,

physical and computer sciences delivered by lecturers at the

forefront of both teaching and research.

UCD Science graduates are in great demand in Science-based

employment both at home and abroad, and are equally sought after

in areas other than Science where there are requirements for

rigorously trained, numerically competent and analytically proficient

graduates. Many UCD Science graduates continue their studies at

graduate level, through Graduate Higher Diplomas, Master and PhD

programmes in UCD or through postgraduate training in leading

institutions all over the world.

At UCD Science, we recognise that students need support that

extends beyond their academic needs. We have two full-time

Student Advisers and a Chaplain available to meet with students on

a range of problems in relation to personal, social or practical issues.

No problem is too trivial. In addition, the Science Programme Office

staff are always available to assist students with academic,

administrative and other problems. Student Advisers, the

Programme Office and academic staff operate an “Open Door”

policy, which means that you can drop in at any time without

an appointment.

We look forward to welcoming you to UCD.

Professor Mark Rogers

Dean of Science at UCD

ContentsBiological and Chemical Sciences

Physical Sciences

Mathematical Sciences

8

18

14

Careers in Science 21

SCIENCE AT UCD | 3

Science at UCD

There are three stages to a BSc General Science degree and four stages

to an Honours Degree. Stage 1 Science students have a mixture of

lectures and practical classes every day. Typically, lectures take place in

the mornings, practicals in the afternoons. Laboratory, field and library-

based projects form an integral part of the course. You do have to

work hard but there is still room for a social life! Entering Science can

be a daunting experience and the Science Programme Office is

committed to helping students through their first year.

There is a huge degree of choice but we offer comprehensive

advisory sessions at the start of the year to help you choose the

course that is right for you. Academic Staff, Peer Mentors, Science

Programme Office staff and Student Advisers are also there to help

you with your decisions.

Stage 1Under UCD Horizons, each degree is made up of 12 modules per

year. In Stage 1 Science, you take 10 science modules and two

electives which may also be science modules. You take six modules

per semester.

In Stage 1, you may sample up to six science subjects in your first

semester. This gives you a great opportunity to decide which of the

sciences is of interest to you. It allows you time and flexibility to

make an informed choice on the subjects that you will pursue in your

second semester and in the following years. You do not have to

finalise your second semester choices until the start of that semester.

By choosing your modules carefully, you have the possibility of

choosing from several degrees at the end of Stage 1.

Stages 2, 3 and 4 In Stage 2, you have the option of pursuing up to three different

degree subjects. At the end of Stage 2, you choose your major

subject for Stages 3 and 4. You may also opt to take a joint major

where you specialise in two subject areas.

You can enter UCD Science through the Omnibus or Denominated

routes. There are 24 single honours degrees to choose from in the

Omnibus programme or you may take a range of joint degrees where

you study two science subjects. Each subject in the Omnibus

programme has a limit on the number of places available and

students are not always guaranteed their first subject choice.

If you already know the science subject you wish to study, you can

enter that programme directly through one of 10 BSc or 1 BAFS

denominated entry routes. This option guarantees a place on your

chosen degree programme.

The CAO code for the Science Omnibus entry is DN008 and the CAO

codes for the Denominated entries are listed in Table 1. All the

degrees available are divided into three main areas – Biological &

Chemical Sciences, Physical Sciences and Mathematical Sciences.

CAO Code Subject Areas

Biological & Chemical Sciences

DN008 Biochemistry

DN039 & DN008 Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

DN008 Botany

DN008 Cell & Molecular Biology

DN008 Chemistry

DN008 Environmental Biology

DN008 Genetics

DN035 & DN008 Medicinal Chemistry & Chemical Biology

DN008 Microbiology

DN036 & DN008 Neuroscience

DN034 & DN008 Pharmacology

DN008 Plant Genetic Engineering

DN008 Zoology

CAO Code Subject Areas

Physical Sciences

DN093 Archaeology & Geology

DN038 & DN008 Climate & Earth System Science

DN008 Geology

DN008 Physics

DN033 & DN008 Physics with Astronomy & Space Science

DN031 & DN008 Theoretical Physics


DN020 Actuarial and Financial Studies

DN008 Applied & Computational Mathematics

DN030 & DN008 Computer Science

DN008 Mathematical Physics

DN032 & DN008 Mathematical Science

DN008 Mathematics

DN008 Statistics

TABLE 1: CAO Codes and Subject Areas for BSc and BAFS degrees

UCD Science Programmes

Stages of UCD Science Degree

4 | SCIENCE AT UCD

Science at UCD

Your First Year Explained Support for StudentsThe Science Programme Office will be your first point of contact

and we encourage you to visit the office for information,

support and advice on any issue. Staff in the office will be able

to give you advice on module selection for the courses you

intend to follow and the subject areas you can progress into in

later years. The Programme Office is open from 8:30am to

5:00pm during term and operates a drop-in policy.

Peer MentoringAll incoming Stage 1 students will be linked with a Peer Mentor

who is a Stage 2 or Stage 3 Science Student. They are available

to help you to get to know the ropes, answer all of your

questions and offer good advice on things such as where to go,

how to fit it all in and how and when to join clubs and

societies. You will meet your Mentor during Orientation and

you will exchange details so that you can contact them during

the year and they can let you know of group meetings.

Advisory SessionsAdvisory sessions are also held for all Stage 1 Science students

before term is due to start. The advisory sessions commence

with an address by the Dean of Science. During these sessions

you will have the opportunity to attend short talks from science

lecturers and meet and talk to individual staff members for

consultation on the selection of modules. Academic members in

each of the Schools of Science will be available for the first two

weeks of Semester 1 for Stage 1 Science students with

questions about module selection.

Choosing your ModulesThe modules you choose in your first year will determine the

subjects that you may specialise in, and ultimately what degree

you can achieve. Table 2 illustrates the modules you must study

in Stage 1 to be eligible for a place on the different degree

programmes.

For example, if you want to pursue a degree in Chemistry, you

must take two Chemistry modules (CHEM 10050 and CHEM

1060) and two Mathematics modules (MATH 10070 and MATH

10090) at Stage 1. To pursue a degree in Microbiology or

Zoology, at Stage 1 you must take three Biology modules (BIOL

10020, BIOL 10050 and BIOL 10060), two Chemistry modules

(CHEM 10050 and CHEM 1060) and two Mathematics modules

(MATH 10070 and MATH 10090).

You need to study 10 Science modules in your first year so after

you select the compulsory modules for your degree course,

you can then make up your remaining module requirements

from optional Science modules. Stage 1 Science modules

for the Science and Denominated programmes are listed

in Table 3.

Conor MurphyGeology & Physics

I’m not the first person in my family to have an interest in Physics. My

Dad studied Physics and my older brother is currently in his final year

of Theoretical Physics in UCD. This family theme was further supported

by the fact that both my Physics and Geography teachers in

Cabinteely Community School were amazing. I was destined

for science.

I chose Omnibus Science in UCD because the course I wanted to do,

Geophysics, was not a denominated entry. And going through

Omnibus Science gave me the chance to try other subjects before

making the final decision to return to my predestined choice of Physics

and Geology.

Last February, we went on a Geology field trip to Antrim. There were

about 40 students and four lecturers. You always hear how much more

relaxed university is compared to secondary school, well that's very

true, but field trips are even more relaxed.

I intend to follow a career in this area. I'd like to graduate, gain about

ten years experience in the field and then return to university to regale

my students with my experiences in the field.

SCIENCE AT UCD | 5

TABLE 2: Modules Required for Entry to BSc and BAFS Programmes

BSc and BAFS Degrees Compulsory Modules

Actuarial & Financial Studies

(These modules are for BAFS students only)

Applied & Computational Mathematics

Archaeology & Geology

Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Biochemistry

Botany

Cell & Molecular Biology

Environmental Biology

Genetics

Microbiology

Pharmacology

Plant Genetic Engineering

Zoology

Chemistry

Climate & Earth System Science

Computer Science

Geology

Mathematical Physics

Mathematical Science

Mathematics

Medicinal Chemistry &

Chemical Biology

Neuroscience**

Physics

Physics with Astronomy &

Space Science

Statistics

Theoretical Physics

COMP 10010, COMP 10020, ECON 10010, ECON 10020, MATH 10040, MATH 10050,

MATH 10060, STAT 10020, STAT 20080, STAT 20090

MATH 10070, MATH 10080, MATH 10090 (Or substitutions)*

ARCH 10010, ARCH 10020, ARCH 10030, ARCH 10040, GEOL 10010, GEOL 10020

BIOC 10040, BIOL 10020, BIOL 10050, BIOL 10060, CHEM 10050, CHEM 10060

MATH 10070, MATH 10090 (Or substitutions)

BIOL 10020, BIOL 10050, BIOL 10060

CHEM 10050, CHEM 10060


CHEM 10050, CHEM 10060, MATH 10070, MATH 10090 (Or substitutions)

GEOL 10010, GEOL 10020, MAPH 10010, MAPH 10020, MAPH 10030, MAPH 10050


COMP 10010, COMP 10020, COMP 10040,

MATH 10070, MATH 10080, MATH 10090 (Or substitutions)

GEOL 10010, GEOL 10020

MATH 10070 and either MATH 10080 or MATH 10090 (Or substitutions)

CHEM 00010 or CHEM 10060

MAPH 10010, MAPH 10020, MAPH 10030


COMP 10010, COMP 10020, COMP 10030

MAPH 10010, MAPH 10020, MAPH 10030, MATH 10040, MATH 10050, MATH 10060

MATH 10040, MATH 10050, MATH 10060

BIOL 10020, BIOL 10050, BIOL 10060

CHEM 00010 or CHEM 10040, CHEM 10050, CHEM 10060, CHEM 10100


BIOL 10020, BIOL 10050, CHEM10050, CHEM 10060,


PHYC 10060, PHYC 10070, PHYC 10080


PHYC 10050, PHYC 10060, PHYC 10070, PHYC 10080, PHYC 10170



PHYC 10060, PHYC 10070, PHYC 10080, MAPH 10010, MAPH 10020, MAPH 10030

MATH 10040, MATH 10050, MATH 10060

*Mathematics Substitutions: MATH10040, MATH10050 and MATH10060 are substitutions intended for students with a particular interest in Mathematics as a subject inits own right, and who achieved a B3 or better in Higher Level Leaving Certificate Mathematics (or equivalent). All other students should choose from MATH10070,MATH10080 and MATH10090.**There are few, if any, places available for students in Omnibus Science within this subject area and allocation of places will be based on performance at the end of Stage 1.

Science at UCD

6 | SCIENCE AT UCD

Science at UCD

Subject First Semester Modules Second Semester Modules

Biochemistry BIOC 10040 Modern Topics in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Biology BIOL 10050 BIOL 10020Animal Diversity and Evolution Cells, Genes & Microbes

BIOL 10060Plants, Fungi and Environmental Science

Chemistry CHEM 00010* CHEM 10050Introductory Chemistry Organic Chemistry and Chemical BiologyCHEM 10040 CHEM 10060The Molecular World Physical & Inorganic ChemistryCHEM 10100Introduction to Medicinal Chemistry

Computer Science COMP 10010 COMP 10020Introduction to Programming I Introduction to Programming IICOMP 10030 COMP 10040Algorithmic Problem Solving Introduction to Computer ArchitectureCOMP 10080 COMP 10050Information and Software Engineering ProjectCommunications Technology COMP 10070

Formal Foundations

Geology GEOL 10010 How the Earth Works GEOL 10020 Earth MaterialsGEOL 10030 Field Geology

Mathematical Physics MAPH 00010 MAPH 10020Introduction to Mechanics Mathematical Modelling IIMAPH 10010 MAPH 10030Mathematical Modelling I Mechanics and Special RelativityMAPH 10050Introductory Meteorology & Climate

Mathematics MATH 00010** MATH 10060Introduction to Mathematics Differential and Integral CalculusMATH 10040 MATH 10080Numbers and Functions Calculus and StatisticsMATH 10050 MATH 10090Linear Algebra and Geometry Matrices and VectorsMATH 10070Introduction to Differential CalculusMATH 10090Matrices and Vectors

Physics/Biophysics PHYC 10020 PHYC 10030Biophysics of the Cell Physics of Macro-organismsPHYC 10050 PHYC 10060Astronomy & Space Science Fields, Waves and LightPHYC 10070 PHYC 10080Foundations of Physics Frontiers of Physics PHYC 10170 Special Physics Lab

Statistics STAT 10010Introductory Statistics for Social Science, Science, Business and Medicine STAT 10020Exploratory Data Analysis & Introduction to Statistical Inference

TABLE 3: Stage 1 Science Modules

*Chemistry: Students who did not achieve at least a C3 in Higher Leaving Certificate Chemistry (or equivalent) must take CHEM00010 Introductory Chemistry.**Mathematics: Students who did not achieve at least an A2 Ordinary Level or C3 Higher Level Leaving Certificate must take MATH00010 Introduction to Mathematics.Students who have to take MATH00010 are advised that there are offerings of MATH10070 and MATH10090 in both semesters. Students may consider registering toone of these modules in Semester 1 and the other in Semester 2.Other students are not eligible to take CHEM00010 or MATH00010.

SCIENCE AT UCD | 7

A protein extract from a breast cancer cell line. Image by Thomas Lau

I knew from an early age that I wanted to study Science and

UCD was always my university of choice. Following an exciting

four years of hard work (and a thoroughly enriching social life) I

graduated with my BSc in 1995 from the department of

Biochemistry at Merville House. I was determined to continue

my studies and enrolled as a PhD student. My PhD in enzyme

kinetics afforded me the opportunity to develop a range of

research techniques, to work with wonderful people and to

travel and present at international conferences, including a three

week tour of Japan.

My introduction to the private sector began with Tyco Healthcare

and was soon followed by the role of Scientific Advisor with

GlaxoSmithKline. I am now the Medical Affairs Manager with

Sanofi Pasteur MSD in Ireland. Despite my love of research, I have

thoroughly adapted to the corporate environment.

My education has equipped me with the necessary skills to

thrive in the private sector where the ability to comprehend

complex scientific information and communicate effectively are

valuable assets.

Dr Brónagh HaydenBSc (Hons) Biochemistry, PhD

Biological and Chemical Sciences

Potential combinations shown here are examples only and are notguaranteed by UCD. Some modules at Stages 3 and 4 are worth morethan 5 credits.

Sample path for Biological andChemical Sciences degree

The example below illustrates one of many combinations of

subjects for a student interested in a BSc degree in Genetics.

STAGE 1

Biology3 modules= 15 credits

Chemistry2 modules= 10 credits

Mathematics2 modules= 10 credits

3 OptionalSciencemodules= 15 credits

2 Electivemodules= 10 credits

Total =

60 credits

STAGE 2

Genetics3 modules= 15 credits

Microbiology4 modules= 20 credits



Total =

60 credits

STAGE 3



Total =

60 credits

STAGE 4


Total =

60 credits


Alumnus

8 | SCIENCE AT UCD

DN008 Biochemistry

Biochemistry aims to explore and

understand every aspect of the structure

and function of all living things at the

molecular level. Biochemistry combines the

molecular approach of Chemistry with the

breadth and diversity of Biology. It uses

varied and powerful experimental

techniques to examine living organisms,

their component parts and molecules that

play a role in the function of the cell.

Biochemistry occupies a central position in

modern biological research. The degree

programme covers a wide range of topics

including the structural biology of proteins

and enzymes, biotechnology,

bioinformatics and proteomics, structure-

based drug design, molecular

endocrinology, cell signalling, the molecular

basis of disease and genetic information

processing.

What sort of careers do Biochemistrygraduates have?Graduates will be able to obtain positions

in a wide range of industrial and academic

facilities including the pharmaceutical and

biotechnological industries, forensic science

and clinical laboratories. In addition,

graduates may pursue careers in teaching,

publishing and management. A degree in

Biochemistry is also good preparation for

entry into professions such as medicine.

DN039 & DN008 Biochemistry &Molecular Biology

Biochemistry & Molecular Biology aims to

explore and understand every aspect of the

structure and function of all living things at the

molecular level. The combination of these

subjects into one degree programme unites

the molecular approach of Chemistry with the

breadth and diversity of Biology. Both use

varied and powerful experimental techniques

to examine living organisms, their component

parts and molecules that play a role in the

function of the cell.

The degree programme covers topics

including the structural biology of proteins

and enzymes, biotechnology, bioinformatics

and proteomics, structure-based drug design,

molecular endocrinology, cell signalling, the

molecular basis of disease and genetic

information processing.

What sort of careers do Biochemistry andMolecular Biology graduates have?Graduates of this degree will be equipped with

the skills required to pursue a career in any

avenue of modern biomolecular research. They

should be able to obtain positions in a wide

range of industrial and academic facilities

including the pharmaceutical and

biotechnological industries, forensic science

and clinical laboratories. In addition graduates

may pursue careers in teaching, publishing

and management, as well as being prepared

for entry into professions such as medicine.

DN008 Botany

Botany is the scientific study of plants and

fungi. Plants are a vital component of the

biosphere and are directly responsible for

the conditions that support and maintain

the atmospheric and environmental

conditions required for life on Earth. Plants

are also the mainstay of human and animal

diets and provide medicines, timber, paper

and clothing. Plants are also being

exploited as sources of renewable energy,

biodegradable plastics and biofuels.

What sort of careers do Botanygraduates have?Botany graduates pursue careers as plant

scientists, environmental consultants,

pollution biologists, molecular geneticists

and cell biologists, as well as in more

vocational areas, as agronomists,

horticulturalists, national park supervisors

and wildlife or conservation officers.

HIV-1 Protease – one of the key enzymes in HIV. Undergraduate practical in the UCD ConwayInstitute.

Biological and Chemical Sciences s

Fern spore by Electron Microscopy (colourtreated). Image by Alfonso Blanco

SCIENCE AT UCD | 9

DN008 Cell & MolecularBiology

Cell & Molecular Biology studies cells and

the molecules that combine to form them.

This includes their physiological properties

such as their structure, their interaction

with the extracellular environment and

other cells, their life cycle, division and

function and eventual death. This is done

both on a microscopic and molecular level.

Cell biology researches both single-celled

organisms like bacteria and specialised cells

in organisms such as humans and plants.

Appreciating the similarities and differences

between cell types is particularly important

to the fields of cell and molecular biology.

Research in cell biology is closely related to

genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology

and developmental biology.

What sort of careers do Cell & MolecularBiology graduates have?Graduates in Cell & Molecular Biology use

their training to pursue a wide variety of

careers. They are employed in a wide range

of pharmaceutical, industrial and academic

areas. These include public sector institutions

(government laboratories and agencies, etc),

research institutes, second and third level

teaching institutions. Graduates may also use

their scientific background in other areas

such as scientific publishing, marketing, sales

and management.

DN008 Chemistry

All materials and living things consist of

atoms and molecules. Chemistry is the

study of these atoms and molecules and

how they interact with each other and the

role they play in living things. Many

students choose to specialise in Chemistry,

as a detailed knowledge of the subject is

essential for entry to many interesting and

challenging careers. For instance, chemists

are creative and can discover new

substances that can have a range of

applications such as medicines that fight

disease (e.g. aspirin, penicillin), or as

materials that are very important in

everyday life (e.g. PVC, Teflon).

What sort of careers do Chemistrygraduates have?Chemists in industry are involved in the

production and analysis of chemicals. Those

in research work on the discovery of new

medicines, new devices and materials and

on advancing our knowledge of the world.

Development chemists can work with

engineers and business people to

turn discoveries into commercially

valuable products.

DN008 Environmental Biology

Environmental Biology investigates the

interactions between organisms and their

natural and man-made environments. The

disciplines of animal ecology, conservation

biology, ecophysiology, ecotoxicology,

microbial ecology, plant ecology, pollution

biology, vegetation science and wildlife

ecology all contribute to the understanding

of environmental biology.

What sort of careers do EnvironmentalBiology graduates have?Environmental Biologists pursue a variety of

scientific careers, such as aquaculture and

fisheries managers, environmental

consultants, habitat ecologists, national

park supervisors, pollution biologists, rare

species conservation officers, technical and

scientific officers, university professors,

wildlife officers and conservation biologists.

Advanced biological approaches now allow us tolook at how human cells interact with novelbiomaterial surfaces at a molecular level. This is anintegrated view of cell-biomaterial interaction.Image by William Gallagher

X-ray crystal structure of 1-trans-2,3,4,5,6-cis-hexaphenylcyclohexane. Image by Corey Seward

Studying reptiles on a field trip to southern Spain.Image by Tasman Crowe


10 | SCIENCE AT UCD

DN008 Genetics

Genetics is the scientific study of heredity –

how information is passed from one

generation to the next. Molecular genetics

and molecular biology are core

components of modern biology, medicine

and biotechnology. The Genetics degree

course covers exciting new developments

such as genetic engineering and

biotechnology, transgenic animals,

genetically modified plants, medical

genetics, gene therapy, molecular

evolution, developmental biology

and genomics.

What sort of careers do Geneticsgraduates have?Many Genetics graduates go on to study

for a higher degree (MSc/PhD) and work in

all sorts of areas, such as universities and

industrial research laboratories. Other

graduates obtain jobs in agribiotech and

other biotechnology companies, in the

pharmaceutical sector and in hospital

diagnostic laboratories.

DN035 & DN008 Medicinal Chemistry &Chemical Biology

With its enormous impact on biology and

medicine, Chemical Biology will

undoubtedly lead to further discoveries and

inventions, which will become widely

adopted in clinical practice. Consider such

Nobel Prize winning accomplishments as

the discovery of penicillin (Fleming, Florey

and Chain, Hodgkin) and the

determination of the structure of DNA

(Watson and Crick).

Chemical Biology & Medicinal Chemistry

are fields populated by chemists who have

a good understanding of biology at the

molecular level. They will be of increasing

importance for decades to come to address

existing and emerging healthcare problems

(for example cancer, AIDS, TB and

avian flu).

What sort of careers do MedicinalChemistry and Chemical Biologygraduates have?Chemical Biologists and Medicinal Chemists

will develop the next generation of

medicines to solve such problems and will

have an impact across a wide range of

areas including the development of

environmentally friendly approaches to

process chemistry.

These are transgenic zebrafish larvae (5 days old, 3mm long) that express green fluorescent protein in alltheir blood vessels. The zebrafish is our animal modelto study retinal development and disease. Image by Yolanda Alvarez

I often wonder what it would be like to

follow in the footsteps of someone like

the great naturalist David Attenborough,

or how it would feel to have been

involved in the making of the recent

Planet Earth documentary. It seems like

I've always been interested in science and

animals. Biology and geography were my

favourite subjects in secondary school.

Now in my third year of Environmental

Biology in University College Dublin, I can

hardly believe how much my interests

have continued to galvanise. I enjoy the

hands-on practicals most of all, whether it's

a weekend field trip to the west of Ireland

or a week long field trip to the wilds in

Spain. This type of fieldwork outside of the

lecture halls really unites you with your

classmates. It creates a great sense of

community. And most of all it puts you in

touch with the living world.

The practicals go towards your grades

and having exams at Christmas and in

the Summer actually takes the pressure

off. We also have the chance to pick

modules outside our own area so I was

able to study cultural geography – which

is in the UCD College of Arts and Celtic

Studies – as an elective.

Last Summer, I travelled to Haiti with the

UCD Volunteers Overseas to help the local

community build roads and educate their

children. It's hard to believe how much a

five-week international volunteering

project can expand your world view.

Sarah JaneGardnerEnvironmental

Biology


“I enjoy the hands-on practicals

most of all”

Crystal structure of the extracellular segment of anIntegrin protein involved in blood clotting. Imageby Norman Davey

SCIENCE AT UCD | 11

DN008 Microbiology

Microbiology is the study of microscopic organisms

known as micro-organisms or microbes. Microbes play a

key role in every facet of life on this planet. For

example, microbes are an essential link in the (re)cycling

of nutrients and have a major impact on the earth’s

climate by their metabolism of greenhouse gases like

carbon dioxide and methane. Microbes protect us from

colonisation by pathogens, assist in our metabolism of

food and are responsible for the production of essential

nutrients and vitamins in our bodies. A few microbes

cause disease, for example MRSA, AIDS and meningitis.

Microbiological research aims to find treatments for

these and other infectious diseases. In addition we use

and engineer fungi and bacteria to produce a vast array

of compounds ranging from antibiotics to bioplastics,

which play a critical role in medicine and industry.

What sort of careers do Microbiology graduates have?Microbiologists are employed in the healthcare and

pharmaceutical industries and in the food and food-

related industries where they are involved in research

and development, process design and control,

management and in quality control. All hospitals

employ microbiologists where they work in, for

example, clinical laboratories. Many students opt to

continue their undergraduate degree with a

postgraduate degree followed by a career in research in

university and industrial R&D institutes, for example.

These microbiologists play a key role in developing new

drugs, finding novel ways to combat infectious diseases

and design new approaches to clean the environment

from pollutants and to develop a green economy.

DN036 & DN008Neuroscience

Neuroscience is the study of nerve cells and

attempts to understand how these cells interact

with each other to form the brain and regulate

body functions and human behaviour. The

malfunction of the nervous system lies at the

heart of a number of devastating and currently

incurable conditions, such as Alzheimer’s and

Parkinson’s diseases. Neuroscience research

probes the mechanisms underlying such

malfunctions with a view to helping in the

discovery of drugs to prevent or manage these

disorders. Disciplines such as cell biology,

genetics, biochemistry, physiology,

pharmacology, anatomy, psychology and other

branches of the life sciences are integrated in

Neuroscience in order that the brain and

nervous system can be understood from a

number of levels of analysis.

What sort of careers do Neurosciencegraduates have?Neuroscience graduates have the opportunity to

follow many different career paths. They may

choose to continue their education by pursuing

a postgraduate degree programme.

Alternatively, many will obtain employment in

the pharmaceutical, agrochemical or medical

technology industries or in research institutes or

government agencies. As trained scientists,

many graduates are highly sought after by large

multinational organisations and go on to careers

in management, accountancy, marketing, law

and publishing.

Yeast Candida parapsilosis undergoing spontaneous colonyphenotype switching. Three different phenotypes distinguishableby colony morphology are visible on this picture.Image by Tristan Rossignol

Zoology is, to me, a science that’s

very broad and fascinating. The

beauty of Zoology is that 'the

learning never stops'! Conservation is

also a major part of Zoology in order

to preserve endangered species.

Some of my heroes (and heroines) in

the field include Charles Darwin and

Dian Fossey to contemporaries such

as David Attenborough, David

Bellamy, Jane Goodall and Desmond

Morris. One day I hope to have

gained enough knowledge and

understanding to submit my own

theories to esteemed journals such as

National Geographic!

I am extremely happy to be

studying at UCD. My tutors teach

me how to look beyond the

superficial and employ logic and

lateral thinking to solve problems. I

went on field trips with my fellow

students and had great times

proving to me that education and

fun are not incompatible!

I look forward to studying in New

Zealand next year as part of The

Student Exchange Program. It will be

an interesting experience to live in

the southern hemisphere for a time.

Ligita KuklyteZoology

This is a 3D reconstruction of a brain, illustratingthe position of the key structure involved in theformation of memories. Image by Darren Scully


“My tutors teach me how to look beyondthe superficial andemploy logic and

lateral thinking to solve problems”

12 | SCIENCE AT UCD

SCIENCE AT UCD | 13

DN034 & DN008Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the study of the nature,

actions and uses of drugs. A drug is any

substance that is given to humans or

animals with the intention of changing the

state of body functioning: to relieve pain,

treat cancer, eliminate infection or improve

health in any way or to investigate the

functions of the body. Toxicology is another

important component and is the study of

the harmful effects of chemicals on living

organisms. Toxic substances include certain

drugs, pesticides, heavy metals, plant and

microbial toxins and many organic

chemicals.

What sort of careers do Pharmacologygraduates have?There are opportunities for postgraduate

work in Pharmacology in UCD and there are

currently 66 postgraduate students pursuing

research projects in the UCD School of

Biomolecular & Biomedical Science or in

associated laboratories. Careers in

management, research and product

development are available for graduates in

the pharmaceutical industry. Pharmacology

graduates may also pursue careers in

teaching and in regulatory agencies, e.g.

drug information/ registration.

DN008 Plant GeneticEngineering

This subject includes the study of the

techniques of Plant Genetic Engineering

but also places these techniques within the

broader context of plant science and food

safety. Students take courses in various

aspects of Plant Molecular Biology, Genetics

and Plant Ecology. Stage 4 students take

specialist modules on a range of topics

including Plant Food Safety, Genetically

Modified Organisms in the Environment,

Plant Developmental Biology, Applied

Molecular Biology and Plant Breeding.

What sort of careers do Plant GeneticEngineering graduates have?In addition to further postgraduate studies,

graduates from this course are ideally

positioned for careers that demand a

knowledge of plant genetic engineering,

such as regulatory authorities, food safety

laboratories, plant biotechnology

companies and agencies monitoring the

release of GMOs.

DN008 Zoology

Zoology is the study of animals, from the

level of individual molecules to how

populations of animals interact with their

environment. Modern Zoology deals with

all aspects of animals, from genetics and

cell biology to ecology and animal

behaviour. Zoology in UCD prides itself on

maintaining a diverse curriculum allowing

students to choose from a wide range of

disciplines, including terrestrial, marine and

freshwater biology, immunology, ecology,

population genetics, developmental biology

and zoonotic and other diseases.

What sort of careers do Zoologygraduates have?Employers of Zoology graduates in Ireland

include government departments, National

Parks & Wildlife Service, Health Service

Executive, National Museum, semi-state

bodies such as ESB, BIM and the Salmon

Research Trust, conservation bodies,

forensic laboratories and a wide range of

medical and veterinary companies. The

UCD School of Biology & Environmental

Science has a large group of marine

researchers (www.ucd.ie/zoology/marbee)

and its members teach marine biology and

ecology at all levels.

The process of cell changes called EMT (epithelial-mesenchymal transdifferentiation) that occur whenkidney epithelial cells are treated with drugs.Image by Tara McMorrow and Eric Campbell

Fern spore by Electron Microscopy (colour treated).Image by Alfonso Blanco


This image of a nesting puffin is emblematic of researchinto seabird fowling as a food-provision strategy inNorth-Atlantic Europe, formerly, and to some extent atthe present time, as part of an ethnological food studiesprogramme in UCD. Image by Patricia Lysaght

The bulb represents the innovation a project named Bluedot. The blue light represents its most important characteristic, the coldness of the sensors.Image by Carlos Hernandez

Sample path for Mathematical Sciences degree

The example below illustrates one of many combinations of subjects

for a student interested in a BSc degree in Computer Science.

Potential combinations shown here are examples only and are notguaranteed by UCD. Some modules at Stages 3 and 4 are worthmore than 5 credits.

STAGE 1

ComputerScience3 modules= 15 credits




Total =

60 credits

STAGE 2

ComputerScience 7 modules = 35 credits



Total =

60 credits

STAGE 3

ComputerScience10 modules

= 50 credits


Total =

60 credits

STAGE 4

ComputerScience10 modules= 60 credits

Total =

60 credits



I’m glad I studied Mathematical Science because of my love of

mathematics; its intricate structures, its powerful uses in science &

finance and the elegance, inevitability and finality of a good proof.

I’m glad I studied at UCD because of the many wonderful

experiences I had over my five years in fields as diverse as debating,

martial arts, college radio and newspapers, the Students’ Union,

charity work and the Faculty (as it was) of Science.

The course is an excellent grounding for a career in finance and

in 2005 I joined Susquehanna Ireland, a cutting-edge trading

firm that operates on all of the major European exchanges from

its offices in Dublin. Now I run the company’s ADR strategy,

which involves European stocks that are also listed on American

exchanges. Monstrous sums of money flow through the markets

every day, attracting the smartest and keenest people. It’s a

perfect career for someone who wants to work with

mathematical and statistical ideas and be well rewarded for it.

Eoghan CaseyBSc (Hons) Mathematical Science

Alumnus

14 | SCIENCE AT UCD

DN020 Actuarial & Financial Studies

The BAFS (Hons) degree will prepare you for a

professional career in the actuarial or financial

professions, but it has also been designed to be

broader and more diverse than most traditional

programmes in actuarial science. It takes a

combination of strong analytical skills, business

knowledge and understanding of human

behaviour to design and manage programmes

that control risk and guarantee sufficient funds

for the insurance and pension sectors. For

example, the actuary works out the risk (i.e. the

likelihood of an incident such as a fire

happening) and calculates how much the

customer should pay for insurance cover in

order to ensure the insurance company has

sufficient funds to pay out if the incident occurs.

The actuary calculates the premium based on

the pattern and trends in the entire

marketplace. To that end your degree will focus

on statistics, mathematics, economics finance,

investment and related actuarial science and

business subjects.

What sort of careers do Actuarial &Financial Studies graduates have?BAFS graduates hold a degree with

exceptionally good career prospects in the

financial services industry and they are highly

sought after by employers. Most of these take

positions as actuarial trainees in the life,

pensions, health or general insurance industry.

Although many pursue careers as an actuary,

a significant number of graduates have

established good careers in banking,

economics, management consultancy,

accountancy, computer science and statistics.

DN030 & DN008 Computer Science

Computer Science is the investigation

and exploration of the theory, practice

and use of computers and computation.

It covers topics that span the theory of

computation, software construction,

hardware design, computer operating

systems and the applications of

computers in the communications,

scientific and commercial systems fields.

There are opportunities for Stage 3

students to undertake funded research

internships in the UCD School of

Computer Science & Informatics.

What sort of careers do ComputerScience graduates have?Career opportunities available to

Computer Science graduates include

software programmer, software engineer,

database engineer, web developer,

network engineer, digital circuit

designer, systems analyst and computer

consultant. Many graduates also go on

to careers that ‘use’ computing, rather

than ‘are’ computing. Examples of this

include positions in financial services,

the film industry, video game

development and the automobile

and aeronautics industries.

Actuaries are typically employed in the financialservices sector where their role is to understand thenature of risk and find ways to manage it.

Bioinformatics involves the application of computers

to biological systems. Image by Davide Baú

Science was always a huge area of

interest to me from a very young age.

Because I wanted to explore as many of

its avenues as possible, I chose to study

Omnibus Science. I realised that

knowledge of Computer Science would

be applicable to a wide range of science

subjects and would be beneficial to any

career, so I elected to do the available

modules. To my delight I found that

problem solving and programming came

naturally to me. The subject is a

fascinating application of Mathematics,

my favourite class at school.

Studying Computer Science is a fantastic

way to get involved in and contribute to

societies. This year I am the webmaster

for UCD’s Mathematical Society. I am

also an Ordinary Committee Member on

UCD's Internet Society. This has greatly

augmented my circle of friends and

made my life at University more fun.

Many exciting opportunities are

available such as programming

competitions, one of which I took part

in over the summer. There’s a

thoroughly friendly atmosphere which

makes for a brilliant college experience.

Ursula RedmondComputer Science

Mathematical Sciences s

“I realised that knowledge of

Computer Science would be applicable

to a wide range of science subjects and would be beneficial

to any career ”

SCIENCE AT UCD | 15

DN008 Applied &ComputationalMathematics

Today’s advances in areas as diverse asbiomedicine, the Internet, communications,finance and commerce all require individualswith a sound background in appliedmathematics and computation.Mathematical models create representationsof complex real-world phenomena in aprecise quantitative way. Fundamentalinsights can then be obtained by analysingthese models through a combination ofmathematical techniques and computationalsimulation. This combination ofmathematical modelling and computersimulation is so powerful that it istransforming science and engineering,emerging as a new pillar of sciencealongside the traditional theoretical andexperimental approaches. The programmein Applied and Computational Mathematicstrains you in both of these essential aspectsof modern analysis — mathematical andcomputational — preparing you tounderstand and then solve critical problemsin a wide range of application areas.

What sort of careers do Applied &Computational Mathematics graduates have?Career directions for graduates include

software design, mathematical and

statistical modelling, the financial sector,

meteorology, agricultural, veterinary,

medical and pharmaceutical research, the

power industry (oil, electricity) and

environmental services.

DN008 Mathematical Physics

Mathematical Physics combines the areas of

Applied Mathematics and Theoretical

Physics. Applied Mathematics involves the

mathematical modelling and solution of

real-world scientific problems. Theoretical

Physics aims to provide a unified

description of the fundamental laws of

nature through Mathematics. These laws

govern the behaviour of all physical objects

in the universe.

What sort of careers do MathematicalPhysics graduates have?Because both areas of Mathematical Physics

provide a strong training in Mathematical

Modelling, our graduates are well prepared

to find employment in a diverse range of

professions both in Ireland and abroad.

Those of our students who have not

become professional applied

mathematicians or theoretical physicists

have pursued careers in a wide variety of

professions, for example in the financial

and banking sector, in software design and

in meteorology.

Fluid mechanics was developed in the 19th centurybut finds applications today in everything fromastrophysics and Formula One to traffic control onthe M50.

During my time attending UCD’s

undergraduate courses in mathematical

physics I have been exposed to some of

the most exciting subjects to be taught

in university. My personal favourites so

far have to be Astrophysics, Quantum

Mechanics, Special Relativity and

Environmental Fluid Mechanics.

I have been fortunate to have been

given the chance to compete in the

international Mathematical Contest in

Modeling twice and the Irish

Mathematical Inter-varsities on behalf

of UCD.

I’ve also been Captain of the UCD

Squash Club, an actor, debater and a

competitor in the Mathematical Inter-

varsities too!

Brian Ó CaithníaMathematicalPhysics

This is an image of a Klein bottle, which is a

mathematical shape based on a one-sided surface.

Shapes like this are studied in the mathematical

discipline of topology.

“I have been fortunate to have

been given the chance to compete in the international

Mathematical Contest in Modeling twice and the Irish Mathematical

Inter-varsities on behalf of UCD. ”


16 | SCIENCE AT UCD

DN032 & DN008 Mathematical Science

The degree in Mathematical Science

covering all areas of Mathematics and

Statistics was set up in response to the

growing demands from industry,

commerce, science and technology for staff

trained in mathematical, analytical thinking.

In an increasing number of these areas,

Mathematics is the only effective language

for the analysis of problems and

communication of results and ideas. You

will learn the fundamental principles,

methods and techniques from pure and

applied mathematics, mathematical

physics, statistics and actuarial science; how

to analyse and solve problems of a

quantitative nature and to communicate

the results clearly; to model mathematically

a variety of real-world problems.

What sort of careers do MathematicalScience graduates have?At present there is a high demand for

Mathematical Science graduates and

postgraduates in financial and banking

sectors, software design, meteorology,

pharmaceutical research, government

statistics, agricultural and veterinary

research, healthcare, mathematical and

statistical modelling, education and the

civil service.

DN008 Mathematics

Mathematics is a basic tool in all scientific

subjects, economics, engineering,

geography, computer science, banking

business, statistics, social science and in

many other fields. In the past 100 years the

growth of Mathematics has been

spectacular, stimulated not only by the

needs of science, technology and

commerce, but also by the intellectual

challenges provided by the discipline itself.

The subject possesses a very large collection

of problems – many still unresolved – the

investigation of which requires great

challenge and ingenuity.

What sort of careers do Mathematicsgraduates have?Each year sees new applications of

sophisticated mathematical models and

procedures, using computers, in insurance

and actuarial services, the stock market,

banking and industry. Employers in all of

these areas seek Mathematics graduates.

Our recent graduates have found work in

diverse areas including actuarial science,

banking and financial services, civil service

executive and administrative grades, coding

and cryptography, the computer industry,

market surveying, mathematical modelling,

meteorology, operations research, statistics

and teaching.

DN008 Statistics

Statistics is an important tool used by

researchers in actuarial science, agriculture,

biotechnology, computer science, ecology,

economics, marketing, mathematics,

medicine, psychology and social science.

Statisticians also develop mathematical

models for uncertainty and investigate their

properties and applicability. The power of

modern computing has had a major impact

on both the development and usefulness of

statistical methods.

What sort of careers do Statisticsgraduates have?Statisticians find job opportunities in many

diverse areas of society. Pharmaceutical

companies employ many statisticians and

the whole area of industrial quality control

provides many opportunities for those

qualified in statistics. Statisticians are also

needed for research in marketing,

medicine, agriculture and veterinary

medicine. Insurance companies often hire

statistics graduates, and in particular a lot

of the training of an actuary is based on

statistical methodology.

Statistics deals with the collection, analysis andinterpretation of numerical data.

This is an image of a fractal, a beautiful and verycomplex object described by a very simpleequation. While often seen in Art, applications arenow found in medicine and seismology.

Mathematical Sciences s

SCIENCE AT UCD | 17

Distribution of micro-organisms in a fluid flow.Aggregation of chemotactic particles (e.g.representing bacteria) that swim in the direction ofincreasing nutrient concentration in a chaoticallymoving fluid medium. (Numerical simulation).Image by Zoltan Neufeld

Neutrons carry a magnetic moment but no charge and hence are unique probes to study magnetism in matter. The image shows predicted and measured intensities of a scatteredneutron beam in the magnetic crystal CsCoBr3. Image by Hans-Benjamin Braun

Physical Sciences

Potential combinations shown here are examples only and are notguaranteed by UCD. Some modules at Stages 3 and 4 are worth morethan 5 credits.

Sample path for Physical Sciences degree

The example below illustrates one of many combinations of subjects

for a student interested in a BSc degree in Geology.

STAGE 1

Geology2 modules= 10 credits


Chemistry2 modules= 10 credits



Total =

60 credits

STAGE 2


EnvironmentalBiology3 modules= 15 credits



Total =

60 credits

STAGE 3



Total =

60 credits

STAGE 4


Total =

60 credits

I currently reside and work in Silicon Valley, California as President

& CEO of a venture capital-backed solar energy company called

Innovalight. In 1989 I finished my degree at UCD and moved to

Japan with NEC Corporation, at their central research laboratories

in Kawasaki. I was with a team of engineers working on novel

optoelectronics for high-speed telecommunications.

In 1996, I was transferred by Lucent to Munich, Germany as

director of marketing for Europe, Middle-East and Africa. Upon

returning to the US, I ran a $400 million dollar Lucent division in

Pennsylvania.

Eventually getting the startup bug, I joined an early stage

technology company in San Diego, California which later resulted

in me joining our financier, venture capital firm, Sevin Rosen

Funds. I jumped back into the startup world with the formation of

Innovalight as a solar company in 2005 and have raised over $40

million in venture capital funding since.

I really enjoyed being at UCD and am very proud of being able to

say I was part of the class of Physics of 1989.

Conrad BurkeBSc (Hons) Physics (UCD),

MSc (TCD)

Alumnus

Physical Sciences

18 | SCIENCE AT UCD

DN093Archaeology & Geology

DN038 & DN008 Climate & Earth System Science

Climate change is the greatest environmental

challenge facing us today. The climate involves

not just the atmosphere and oceans, but also

the entire Earth system, including polar

icecaps, the biosphere and processes deep

beneath the Earth’s surface. This new inter-

disciplinary degree programme focuses on the

Earth and our climate systems, providing a

thorough understanding of the nature,

controls and dynamics of the interacting

physical and geological processes. The degree

emphasises fundamental mathematical theory,

computational methods and applications in

the Earth and atmospheric sciences and will

provide students with a comprehensive

introduction to the entire area of climate and

of the solid earth and fluid systems that

contribute to it. The programme will include

core modules in applied and computational

mathematics, geological sciences and

atmospheric, ocean and climate science.

What sort of careers do Climate & EarthSystem Science graduates have?Graduates can pursue a wide range of careers

in national meteorological and environmental

agencies such as Met Éireann, the

Environmental Protection Agency and the

Marine Institute, as well as in the private

sector. Research opportunities include MSc

and PhD programmes in meteorology and

climate in UCD and other universities and

specialised research institutions.

DN008 Geology

Geology is the study of the Earth. It is

concerned with the nature and origin of

materials that make up the Earth and impacts

profoundly on many aspects of life and

society. It explores the processes that shape

the surface of our planet and are active

beneath it (for example global warming,

earthquakes, volcanoes and landslides).

Geology seeks to answer fundamental

questions regarding the structure and age of

the Earth, how it has evolved, its processes

and the history of life. The programme aims

to provide a comprehensive understanding

of all the major aspects of geology along

with sound academic training in

independent observational and

interpretational skills. Fieldwork is an

important part of geological training and

many of our modules involve field classes.

What sort of careers do Geologygraduates have?Graduates are employed in organisations

ranging from government agencies to

petroleum and mineral exploration

companies in Ireland and abroad. Graduates

work as geological surveyors, exploration

geologists in the petroleum and mining

industries, mine geologists, hydrogeologists,

oceanographers, geochemists,

environmental consultants and engineering

and structural geologists.

Undergraduate students drawing a medievalchurch wall. Credit: UCD School of Archaeology

Students who are interested in the application

of geological and other scientific approaches

to solving archaeological problems will find

this an exciting and challenging joint degree

option, unique in Ireland.

Archaeology is the study of the extraordinary

diversity of human experience and long-term

human culture, through the material remains

left by ancient societies and individuals, and

evidence of their past environments. Geology

is the study of the Earth: its composition and

the processes that shape its surface and

interior, for example global warming,

earthquakes, volcanoes and landslides.

Archaeology and Geology have in common

the aims of understanding past life, dating

and interpreting past events, investigating

natural materials of interest to people, and

exploring the relationship between culture

and the natural world.

What sort of careers do Archaeology andGeology graduates have?In the past twenty years, archaeology has

become an increasingly commercial field in

Europe, and particularly in Ireland in the past

decade, with many archaeological companies

being formed. The heritage sector is also

growing, as is cultural tourism; all of these

industries require cross-over knowledge

between natural and cultural conservation

and interpretation. It is anticipated that the

unique mixture of transferable skills will also

be extremely beneficial for a wide range of

other future careers.

Front approaching Ireland and snow over the Alps(Eumestat RGB composite image).

Geology students on a field class on the isle ofPortland, southern England.

Physical Sciences s

SCIENCE AT UCD | 19

Physical Sciences

20 | SCIENCE AT UCD

DN008 Physics

Physics is about the fundamental laws of

the universe that govern living as well as

non-living systems. It is a fundamental

science involving a deep understanding of

nature derived from mathematical and

experimental insights. Advanced lecture

modules cover core areas of Physics such as

Quantum Mechanics, Nuclear Physics,

Elementary Particle Physics, Condensed

Matter Physics and General Relativity and

also include electives in areas such as

Astrophysics, Applied Optics, Biophysics,

Environmental Physics and Medical Physics.

What sort of careers do Physicsgraduates have?Recent Physics graduates have pursued

careers in industry (electronics, computers,

telecommunications), hospitals (medical

imaging, nuclear medicine, radiotherapy),

government and semi-state services,

national laboratories, banking, finance,

insurance and academic research. Related

fields in which physicists find employment

include geophysics, chemical physics,

biophysics, computer science and materials

science and the energy sector.

DN033 & DN008 Physics with Astronomy& Space Science

This is primarily a Physics degree

programme, with an emphasis on the

applications of Physics in Astrophysics and

Space Science. You will gain an

understanding of how ground-based and

space-based technologies are used to explore

the universe and how modern science can be

used to understand it. The course contains

modules in Physics, Mathematics, Astronomy

and Space Science. Advanced topics include

stellar and planetary formation and

evolution, black holes, galaxies and

cosmology. Related modules on Relativity,

Elementary Particle Physics, Nuclear Physics

and Quantum Mechanics provide a rigorous

foundation in the science underpinning

astronomy and astrophysics.

What sort of careers do Physics withAstronomy and Space Science graduates have?A wide range of careers is open to Physics

graduates, including R&D in high-tech

industries, software development, teaching,

banking and finance, management

consultancy, meteorology and medical

physics. The degree also prepares students

for careers within the space industry (e.g.

NASA and ESA). Graduates will be extremely

well prepared to pursue further study at MSc

level, or research at PhD level, in Ireland

and abroad.

DN031 & DN008Theoretical Physics

Theoretical Physics aims to provide a

unified description of the fundamental laws

of nature. These laws govern the behaviour

of all physical objects in the universe. This

degree provides an introduction to all the

major areas of Theoretical Physics including

Relativity Theory, Quantum Mechanics,

Atomic Physics, Nuclear Physics and

Computational Physics. Advanced topics

include: General Relativity, Electromagnetic

Theory, Quantum Gravity, Quantum Field

Theory, Statistical Mechanics, Theoretical

Astrophysics, Fluid Mechanics, High Energy

Physics and Condensed Matter Physics.

What sort of careers do TheoreticalPhysics graduates have?The course provides an excellent training in

problem-solving and computing skills that

can be applied in a wide variety of careers

in industry, business, government and

university. Research opportunities are

available to Theoretical Physics graduates in

UCD and in other universities. Theoretical

Physics graduates may also pursue careers

in meteorology, software development,

stock market analysis, environmental

analysis, internet/network consultancy,

financial risk analysis and second- and third-

level education.

Professor David Southwood, Director of the EuropeanSpace Agency Science Programme, meeting some ofthe Stage I Physics with Astronomy & Space Sciencestudents on the School of Physics roof, in front of thestudent radio telescope.

Chiral objects such as seashells, DNA and evenelementary particles such as neutrini are ubiquitousin nature, yet the origin of such chirality continuesto puzzle scientists. Now physicists have revealed amechanism that explains the origin of chirality inmagnets. Image by Hans-Benjamin Braun

Questioning Einstein's theory during a breakbetween experiments. Image by Carlo Sala Frigerio

Types of Careers and SalariesThe diversity of careers available to UCD Science graduates is very

varied. Depending on the subject you specialise in you will learn

practical skills in laboratory procedures and running equipment

or in programming, database management and networking.

All our Science graduates are skilled at analysing data, writing reports,

solving problems and are trained to use their own initiative – all

qualities that companies are looking for in employees. These skills can

be transferred to businesses from biotechnology, conservation and

wildlife to business, finance and forensics.

Many Science graduates take entry level positions in the

pharmaceutical, information technology and banking sectors. After

building up their skills and work experience graduates can then

progress to more senior levels within the same company or move to a

different company.

Table 4 illustrates the salaries for some of the positions available for

Science graduates. It shows how salaries increase with an increase in

work experience. For example, a Microbiology Analyst with one to

three years’ experience could earn €26,000 – €35,000 and with three

years’ plus experience could earn €35,000 – €48,000.

This survey also indicates how a Science graduate can progress

through their career within a company. For example, a Chemistry

graduate with one to three years’ of experience could start out as an

Analytical Chemist earning between €30,000 – €44,000 and with

experience and promotion could potentially become a Quality

Manager on €55,000 – €75,000 or even a Director of Quality on a

salary of €90,000 – €120,000.

Graduate Study OpportunitiesMany of our UCD Science graduates continue their studies to master’s

or doctoral degree level. Leading UCD Institutes and Research Centres

include the CSCB (Centre for Synthesis and Chemical Biology), the

UCD Conway Institute of Biomedical and Biomolecular Research and

UCD CASL (Complex & Adaptive Systems Laboratory). In addition,

UCD is also home to NovaUCD, the Innovation and Technology

Transfer Centre. Notable successes include the development and

licensing of a BSE test, which to date has generated €2 million in

royalty income for UCD and the establishment of a range of spin-off

companies including Celtic Catalysts and ChangingWorlds.

Flow Cytometry is used to analyse cells in suspension. In this image you can see a blood sample analysed by this powerful tool. Image by Alfonso Blanco

Careers in Science

TABLE 4: Salary Survey 2008

Job Title Dublin €Science and PharmaceuticalAnalytical Chemist (1-3 years’ experience) 30,000 – 44,000

Analytical Chemist (3+ years’ experience) 42,000 – 55,000

Microbiology Analyst (1-3 years’ experience) 26,000 – 35,000

Microbiology Analyst (3+ years’ experience) 35,000 – 48,000

Environmental Officer 27,000 – 38,000

QA / QC Supervisor 42,000 – 58,000

Quality Manager 55,000 – 75,000

Director of Quality 90,000 – 120,000

Clinical Research Officer 35,000 – 50,000

Clinical Operations Manager 60,000 – 80,000

Information TechnologySoftware Test/QA Engineer 28,000 – 55,000

Database Developer (Oracle/SQL Server/Sybase) 30,000 – 55,000

Database Administrator (Oracle/SQL Server/Sybase) 30,000 – 75,000

Multimedia/Graphical/Web Designer 24,000 – 50,000

Oracle Applications Consultant 45,000 – 80,000

QA/Test Manager 55,000 – 90,000

Project Manager 45,000 – 80,000

Programme Manager 70,000 – 110,000

This survey was provided by Brightwater and the complete survey is

available at www.brightwater.ie

Careers in Science

SCIENCE AT UCD | 21

Careers in Science

Forensic Science

Dr Sheila WillisDirector of Forensic LaboratoryBSc (Hons) Chemistry, PhD Chemistry

I can trace my interest in science to my

father’s influence and encouragement from

particular teachers. UCD was a very positive

exciting experience for me and although I

flirted with Botany for a while, Chemistry

was my main interest. I was fascinated by

my first exposure to organometallic

Chemistry at the Youth Science fortnight in

London. I later carried out research in this

area with Professor A.R. Manning and left

UCD with a PhD in 1977 and a very keen

interest in mountaineering!

After two years as Chief Chemist in

Clondalkin Paper Mills, I joined the fledgling

Forensic Science Laboratory where I have

been privileged to progress to the Director

post I now hold. Initially the wide range of

analytical techniques in the laboratory

attracted me but I now realise that the mix of

science to real life applications with tangible

outcomes suits my skills. I also enjoy the

professional company of like-minded people.

My career has paralleled significant

developments in forensic science which has

resulted in a continuous learning experience

for me. This has satisfied the interest in

knowledge that first attracted me to a career

in science.

Working in ScienceBiotechnology

Dr Valerie CullenSenior Scientist for Link MedicineBSc (Hons) Pharmacology,PhD Pharmacology

I really feel I got an excellent education in the

Bachelor of Science programme in UCD. I

studied Pharmacology, Biochemistry and

Chemistry in my second year, and specialised

in Pharmacology for my two remaining years.

We had a great balance of practical work and

formal lectures, and the staff were great

teachers. I really loved it, and it was a natural

decision for me to stay on and conduct my

graduate studies also in Pharmacology

(specifically on the pulmonary system). I took

some time off from research after my PhD to

do clinical biochemistry in a large hospital

lab, and then I moved to London’s Institute of

Psychiatry to conduct two years of post-

doctoral research on neurodegenerative

diseases. I continued this theme with my

second post doctoral fellowship in Harvard

Medical school/Brigham and Women’s

Hospital in Boston, USA, where I specialised in

Parkinson’s disease. After four years at

Harvard, I am now a Senior Scientist at a

small biotech company in Boston called Link

Medicine. We are investigating a drug

candidate for the treatment of Parkinson’s

Disease, and evaluating its potential use in

other indications also. My day to day job

involves cell modelling, assay development,

literature reviews and liaison with outside

parties and collaborators.

Research

Dr Simon PlunkettAstrophysicistBSc (Hons) Physics, PhD Physics

My UCD education gave me a solid

foundation in physics and related sciences

that has served me very well in my career.

UCD also taught me the critical thinking

and analysis skills that are even more

important than pure academic knowledge.

One of the best things about studying

Physics at UCD was the close interaction

between students and lecturers. Help was

always available, and lively discussions

were encouraged. I chose to stay at UCD

after graduation to do a PhD degree in

physics. Following my time at UCD, I

spent three years at the University of

Birmingham in England as a postdoctoral

researcher. From there, I moved to the

United States to work at the Naval

Research Laboratory in Washington, DC,

where I have remained since 1997. I now

carry out research in solar astrophysics and

‘space weather’ (the practical impacts of

the Sun on human activities in space),

using experiments on spacecraft and

numerical models that I have helped to

develop. I never imagined that I would

end up doing this when I first entered

UCD, but it’s been a great ride so far!

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22 | SCIENCE AT UCD

Management

Mr Micéal WhelanProject Manager, CommunicationsBSc (Hons) Geology, MSc, MBA

I thoroughly enjoyed studying Geology at

UCD. The enthusiasm of the lecturers was

contagious and the practicals and field

trips were always great fun. On

graduating I completed an MSc in

Petroleum Geology at Aberdeen

University. I then joined Shell as a

Petroleum Geologist.

During my 10-year career, which included

a period working on drilling locations, I

was a member of multi-disciplinary and

multi-cultural teams charged with the

exploration and development of

hydrocarbon fields both offshore and

onshore. My last role in Shell

headquarters was as part of a consultancy

group whose objective was to provide

global Shell companies with strategic

solutions to their complex technical,

operational and investment problems.

I returned to Ireland in 2000 and

completed an MBA in UCD’s Michael

Smurfit Graduate School of Business. I

then joined NovaUCD, the Innovation and

Technology Transfer Centre at UCD. At

NovaUCD I am responsible for the

development, management and execution

of NovaUCD’s internal and external

communication strategies.

Information Technology

Mr Dan LynchTechnical Consultant for FINEOSBSc (Hons) Computer Science, MSc

Studying in UCD instilled in me a sense of

pride in my work. The UCD School of

Computer Science and Informatics has

transitioned from a small fledgling

department to become a major centre for

research in its field. With this drive and

ambition in the academic staff, I could not

help but be inspired in my studies.

Upon completion of my primary degree I

undertook a Masters by research in

Computer Science, which allowed me to

explore my main area of interest,

Information Retrieval for mobile users. My

college experience, both on an academic

and social level, has provided me with a

wealth of skills.

I now work in the software industry as a

Technical Consultant for FINEOS, who are a

provider of banking and insurance software.

I work mainly using the Java programming

language but am also required to be

proficient in SQL Server, DB2 and Oracle. In

my current role I am required to travel

extensively to customer sites, where I

represent my company, and the technical

and interpersonal skills acquired over the

course of my studies have proved invaluable

in my career.

Working with Animals

Mr Andy LongEnvironmental Consultant for RiverMonitoring Technologies Ltd.BSc (Hons) Zoology

After studying Zoology in UCD I worked for

several years with the Irish Marine Institute to

manage a network of fisheries monitoring

stations around the country. In 2001, I began

an environmental consultancy company

based in Dublin.

Since the early days the company has grown

and now conducts and advises on lake

surveys throughout the country, including,

for the first time, mapping Ireland’s highest

and deepest lakes. I have also had the

opportunity to manage water quality

monitoring programmes and provide advice

to national organisations on Irish inland

fisheries stocks. Our company is now co-

ordinating a programme to re-introduce

species of fish to lakes in the East of Ireland

that were wiped out by acid rain pollution in

the 1980s.

Ms Catherine McGuinness Education Assistant Dublin ZooBSc (Hons) Environmental Biology,MSc Zoology

I always had a fascination with animals so I

chose to study zoology at UCD. During the

four year degree I worked with different

animals, from lobsters to red deer! The

practical aspect of the degree gives you an

opportunity to work as a zoologist while

studying. Currently I work in Dublin Zoo and

every day I get to talk about my favourite

subject - animals!

Careers in Science

SCIENCE AT UCD | 23

CONTACT DETAILSUCD Science Programme Office,Room 128,Science Centre – Hub,University College Dublin,Belfield,Dublin 4.Tel: (01) 716 2355/2365/2375Fax: (01) 716 2439E-mail: [email protected]: www.ucd.ie/science

This booklet (Version 3 for entry 2009) is intended to assist prospective UCD students and theinformation is given in good faith. It is not, however, an official publication of the university anddoes not bind the university in any way. The information provided in this booklet is correct at thetime of going to press but degree programmes are subject to continuing development and theuniversity reserves the right to make changes at any time, before or after a student’s admission.

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DISCOVER. EXPERIENCE. CHOOSE. SCIENCE AT UCD … · DISCOVER. EXPERIENCE. CHOOSE. UCD Science Programme Office University College Dublin. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Degrees in Science