Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT) has celebrated International Women’s Day by recognising its female researchers and their contributions to academia and the wider world.
A number of researchers took part in a panel discussion at LIT’s Moylish campus earlier this week, during which the speakers shared their work and experiences in the field.
There was a diverse range of research topics among the panel including gender studies, quantity surveying, public health and Gothic culture.
The marking of International Women’s Day at LIT coincides with the Institution’s application for an Athena SWAN Bronze Award, which recognises commitment to the advancement of gender equality, representation, progression and success for all.
Marian Duggan, Vice President of Equality & Diversity at LIT, recognised the importance of inclusivity in LIT’s ethos.
“LIT’s mission statement speaks about empowerment and diversity; our talented female researchers are drawn from a broad spectrum of fields and backgrounds,” said Ms Duggan. “It was inspiring to hear their individual stories and experiences during the panel discussion held in LIT to mark International Women’s Day 2020. We are delighted to celebrate the achievements of our women in research and in doing so, strive for an equal world not only in the workplace but throughout society,” she added.
Among the contributors to this week’s panel was Dr Lisa O’ Rourke-Scott, whose research interests include gender and sexual identities, gender-based violence and gender in the context of work.
Dr Claire Meaney, of LIT’s Mechanical & Automobile Engineering Department, spoke to attendees about her research on lung cancer in Ireland, having just been awarded funding by the Irish Cancer Society in collaboration with the Health Research Board to continue her work in this area.
Dr Tracey Fahy outlined her investigations in the areas of Gothic culture and sustainable fashion, while Dr Rita Scully also contributed to the panel on her experiences of research and work within the quantity surveying industry. Carmel McKenna too summarised her research in the organisation of Irish dancing.
Vice President for Research, Development & Innovation at LIT, Dr Liam Brown, said that the marking of International Women’s Day with a specific focus on research indicates LIT’s commitment to cultural development and increasing its RDI capacity.
“From a research, development and innovation perspective, there is a need for equality and where possible input from a diverse team to ensure our research continues to have a clear social, cultural, environmental and economic impact on the Midwest region and beyond,” Dr Brown stated.