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BT Young Scientist 2026: Irish Students Showcase Innovation

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  Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, January 7th 2026 at 10:34 GMT by RTE Online

Young Minds Shine at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2026: A Summary of Innovation and Future Potential

The BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) 2026 concluded recently at the RDS in Dublin, showcasing the remarkable ingenuity and scientific prowess of Ireland’s young minds. This year’s exhibition, featuring over 200 projects from 500 students, demonstrated a clear focus on sustainability, health, and technological advancements, suggesting a generation deeply concerned with real-world problems and eager to contribute solutions. While the overall winners were announced – Cormac Henry and Sean O’Riordan from Presentation Brothers College, Cork, for their project investigating a novel method of detecting early-stage Parkinson’s Disease – the exhibition as a whole was a vibrant display of research, innovation, and potential.

The Winning Project: Early Parkinson’s Detection

Cormac Henry and Sean O’Riordan's winning project tackled a significant health challenge. Their research focused on utilizing machine learning algorithms to analyze handwriting samples to detect subtle changes indicative of early-stage Parkinson's Disease. This is crucial, as early diagnosis is often linked to better management of the disease and improved patient outcomes. The pair developed an application capable of analysing handwriting pressure and speed, identifying patterns often missed by the human eye. According to RTÉ News, the judges were particularly impressed with the project’s potential for real-world application and its rigorous methodology. The project reportedly outperformed existing methods in initial testing, demonstrating a promising avenue for non-invasive, early-stage detection. This victory earned them a €5,000 prize and the title of BT Young Scientist & Technologist of the Year.

Themes & Trends Emerging from the Exhibition

Beyond the headline-grabbing winning project, several key themes emerged from the hundreds of exhibits. Sustainability dominated many entries, reflecting a heightened awareness of climate change and environmental concerns. Projects explored renewable energy sources, waste management solutions, and biodiversity conservation. Many students designed innovative approaches to reducing plastic use, improving recycling rates, and monitoring environmental pollution.

Health and wellbeing were also prominently featured. Numerous projects investigated aspects of physical and mental health, including nutrition, exercise, and the impact of technology on wellbeing. Some students tackled pressing public health issues, researching potential treatments for diseases or exploring preventative measures. The RTÉ report specifically highlighted a project focused on creating a smart inhaler for asthma sufferers, showcasing the potential for technology to improve chronic disease management.

Technological innovation permeated the entire exhibition. Students showcased projects ranging from sophisticated robotics and artificial intelligence applications to software development and innovative hardware designs. Many projects aimed to address everyday problems using technology, demonstrating a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. This included projects exploring the use of drones for search and rescue operations, and the development of accessible technology for people with disabilities.

Beyond First Place: Category Winners & Special Awards

While Cormac and Sean took the overall crown, the BTYSTE recognizes excellence across various categories. The Biological and Ecological Sciences category was won by a project investigating the impact of microplastics on freshwater ecosystems. The Chemical, Physical and Mathematical Sciences category was awarded to research exploring the potential of graphene in energy storage. The Social & Behavioral Sciences category saw success for a project examining the impact of social media on adolescent mental health.

Beyond category winners, numerous special awards were presented. These awards, sponsored by various organizations, recognize specific achievements, such as innovation, entrepreneurship, or the application of STEM skills to address societal challenges. For example, awards were presented for projects focused on sustainability, engineering, and computer science, further emphasizing the breadth and depth of talent on display.

The Importance of the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition

The BTYSTE is more than just a competition; it’s a platform for nurturing scientific talent and fostering a culture of innovation in Ireland. It provides students with invaluable experience in conducting research, developing projects, and communicating their findings to a wider audience. The exhibition encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity – skills that are essential for success in the 21st century.

The exhibition also plays a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and technologists. By showcasing the exciting possibilities of STEM, it encourages students to pursue careers in these fields. The judging panels, comprised of experts from academia and industry, provide valuable feedback and mentorship to the students, further supporting their development.

The RTÉ report emphasizes the continuing support from BT Ireland, which has sponsored the event for over two decades. This long-term commitment underscores the importance of corporate investment in STEM education and the future of Irish innovation.

In conclusion, the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2026 was a resounding success, showcasing the exceptional talent and ingenuity of Ireland's young scientists and technologists. From groundbreaking research on Parkinson's Disease to innovative solutions for sustainability and healthcare, the exhibition provided a glimpse into the bright future of STEM in Ireland. The event not only celebrates achievement but also serves as a powerful catalyst for inspiring the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.