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Limerick students awarded scholarships through Johnson & Johnson’s Women in STEM2D Undergraduate Awards

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Avni Bhandari, a Cyber Security and IT Forensics student from University of Limerick, was presented with a bespoke framed glass artwork to mark her receipt of a Women in STEM2D Programme scholarship with Johnson & Johnson. Picture Conor McCabe Photography.

Eight students from Limerick have been awarded scholarships as part of Johnson & Johnson’s prestigious Women in STEM2D Undergraduate Awards

Eight students from Limerick have been awarded scholarships as part of Johnson & Johnson’s prestigious Women in STEM2D Undergraduate Awards
John Fitzgibbon, Plant Leader, Johnson & Johnson Medtech; and Prof Ita Richardson, Deputy Director of Lero, the SFI Research Centre for Software, are pictured with Niamh Butler, a University of Limerick student. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography.

Eight students from Limerick were amongst 82 students from across seven Irish universities who have been awarded scholarships as part of Johnson & Johnson’s prestigious Women in STEM2D (WiSTEM2D) Undergraduate Awards at its national event held in Thomond Park Stadium, Limerick.

The Award recognises outstanding female students in STEM2D disciplines: Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, Manufacturing and Design. 82 students from Trinity College Dublin, University of Limerick, University College Cork, University of Galway, Munster Technology University, Atlantic Technological University and Maynooth University have received awards as part of the programme. This marks a 33% increase in recipients compared to 2023, highlighting the programme’s growing impact and recognition of talented female students in STEM2D fields.

This is the ninth year of the annual awards programme in Ireland, highlighting Johnson & Johnson’s dedication to promoting female excellence in STEM. A day-long event, carefully structured to foster their growth and development was hosted by the Company at Thomond Park stadium. Attendees availed of workshops and breakout sessions, gaining essential skills and knowledge to prepare them for successful careers.


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Research published by the Central Statistics Office in February 2024 positions Ireland as the EU leader in STEM graduate output, but with a notable gender distribution: 53.0 male STEM graduates per 1,000 persons, compared to 27.4 female graduates. This represents the largest gender differential among all EU member states, highlighting the continued importance of initiatives focused on STEM education participation.

The eight Limerick students selected to receive the award come from University of Limerick, University College Cork, and Atlantic Technological University Galway.

John Fitzgibbon, Plant Leader, Johnson & Johnson Medtech; and Prof Ita Richardson, Deputy Director of Lero, the SFI Research Centre for Software, are pictured with Danielle Rooney, a University of Limerick student. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography.

University of Limerick recipients are Niamh Terranova, Applied Physics, Raheen; Avni Bhandari, Cyber Security and I.T Forensics, Limerick; Danielle Rooney, Industrial Biochemistry, Patrickswell; Sharon Akachi Kanu, Computer Systems, Grove Island; and Niamh Butler, Industrial Biochemistry, Bruff.

University College Cork recipients are Aoife Kate Gilmartin, Mathematical Sciences, Crecora; and Roisin Eileen Musgrave, Physics, Clarina.

Catherine Kiely, Applied Biology and Biopharmaceutical Science, Newtown received the award for Atlantic Technological University Galway.

Anna Rafferty, WiSTEM2D University Sponsor and Senior Director, Government Affairs Supply Chain, Technical Operation and Risk, Johnson & Johnson EMEA, said: “Reflecting on the remarkable growth of the WiSTEM2D programme in Ireland is truly inspiring. Since our launch in 2016, this initiative has grown to support nearly 600 students across seven universities, creating pathways for young women to pursue rewarding careers in STEM fields.”

“Our commitment to empowering women in these critical areas is not just a business priority; it’s a core value that drives our innovation and progress. By investing in their potential, we are not only shaping the future of health and technology but also fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce essential for tackling the challenges of tomorrow. Together, we are igniting a new generation of leaders who will redefine what’s possible in STEM, paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future for all.”

Dana Daneshvari, General Manager, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine; and Dr Alan Morrison, Vice Dean Undergraduate Affairs, UCC, are pictured with Aoife Kate Gilmartin, a University College Cork student. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography.

Jenna Bromell, WiSTEM2D University Lead for Limerick and Senior Engineer Process Excellence, Johnson & Johnson MedTech said: “Being part of the WiSTEM2D programme was a transformative experience.

“I received the award in 2017 as an undergraduate at the University of Limerick, and it inspired me to pursue a career in engineering. Now, I’m the programme lead for UL, and I am back to deliver the keynote speech at this year’s event which is a real full circle moment for me. I am proud to play a role in inspiring the next generation of future WiSTEM2D leaders.”

Each award recipient is set to embark on an inspiring journey, gaining access to a student award, industry mentorship, leadership training, career workshops, Johnson & Johnson site visits, and participation in WiSTEM2D events aimed at bolstering their future in STEM careers. Recipients of the WiSTEM2D Award were also presented with bespoke framed glass artwork crafted by Fermoy-based artist Suzanne O’Sullivan, to mark their achievements.

Richard is a presenter, producer, songwriter and actor. He was named the Limerick Person of the Year (2011) and won an online award at the Metro Éireann Media and Multicultural Awards (2011) for promoting multi-culturalism online. Richard says that the ilovelimerick.com concept is very much a community driven project that aims to document life in Limerick. So, that in 20 years time people can look back and remember the events that were making the headlines.