Mayo student scoops prestigious biotech award

KEVIN Lally from Tourmakeady has scooped a prestigious award from Regeneron, the largest scale bulk biologics productions facility in Ireland.

The 2019 Regeneron Ireland College Awards, in collaboration with University College Cork (UCC), were announced at an event in Regeneron’s Industrial Operations and Production Supply (IOPs) facility in Limerick.

The awards acknowledge outstanding research projects which are presented by selected students pursuing degrees in science and engineering. The winning students are awarded a generous bursary to support their studies, a paid placement at Regeneron and a Regeneron employee mentor to help them take the first steps of their careers.

To participate in the award selected students submitted a presentation on a specific topic related to their academic course. The shortlisted candidates were invited to present their findings to a group of senior Regeneron managers who selected the winners.

Speaking at the awards presentation event, Niall O’Leary, Vice-President and Site Head, Regeneron, said: “Regeneron’s people make us who we are, and our passion for science is something that we want to encourage in third level students across in Ireland.

“Regeneron not only offers a compelling career, but also a unique culture where individuals are inspired to collaborate, think big, push boundaries and change the world. We congratulate all our winners – we look forward to watching you thrive in your careers in STEM, and we hope this award supports you on that journey.”

Professor Tommie McCarthy, University College Cork, added: “The Regeneron College Awards have allowed us to build further bridges between industry and academia and our talented student pool. The awards give students the opportunity to see what a world-class career in science and STEM could be, with one of the world’s most innovative companies. U.C.C. is delighted to collaborate with Regeneron on these awards.”