Very many congratulations to Dr Eimear Conroy, recipient of the early-career MPLS outreach award for her engagement work in bringing particle physics into UK schools.
Eimear is an internationally leading researcher working on the physics of the strong nuclear force and proton structure leading, and how they can be measured using data from the ATLAS experiment at the Large Hadron Collider at CERN.
Working with in partnership the Institute for Research in Schools and the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Eimear has also been at the forefront of this ground-breaking collaborative project with UK school students.
About the project
The Big Data:ATLAS project brings together the Department of Physics, the Institute for Research in Schools (IRIS), and the Particle Physics Department at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL). Over 30 weeks, students learn analytical and coding methods used by particle physicists and develop skills such as statistical analysis. They are taught how to use Python to access and manipulate ATLAS data before developing a research idea of their own and preparing a presentation to showcase their work.
The project is designed to support students with little or no prior experience in particle physics or computer programming. Through this partnership, 518 students across the UK have engaged with real particle physics research—boosting their science capital and helping them see that a career in STEM research is within reach.
Participating students from five UK schools submitted a peer-reviewed academic paper which was accepted the European Physical Journal Plus (EPJ Plus). The paper covers their findings from seven particle physics research projects. Their research was also published on CERN’s website, a public repository of research analysing its data. Their work sits alongside leading scientists’ research.
Eimear has been a superb role model
“Eimear is a true role model who is not just a brilliant mind but has a generous heart shown by the dedication she has given to the Big Data: ATLAS project. She is committed, compassionate, and alive with energy and makes even the mysteries of particle physics feel like an open invitation to wonder for all that meet her. She inspires young scientists not just by what she knows, but by how she shares it. We at IRIS feel privileged to have had the opportunity to work with Eimear on the Big Data: ATLAS project and value her continued support with both the project, masterclasses and the students who participate”
Kelly Murfet, Head of Engagement (Institute for Research in Schools)
“Eimear has shown extraordinary vision and dedication to this project right from its conception through to its delivery to successive cohorts of school students. From the initial creation the materials, visiting schools and presenting awards she has also become a role model to hundreds of high-school students who have engaged with the project.”
Prof Alan Barr, PI of the BigData:ATLAS project
"I am thrilled to see Eimear Conroy recognised for her brilliant work on BigData:ATLAS. Her energy and creativity have inspired young students to discover the power of big data and physics, reminding us how outreach can spark the next generation of scientists."
Prof Daniela Bortoletto, Head of Particle Physics, University of Oxford