Flying dinosaur controversy resolved
New research appears to have ended a scientific debate that has vexed palaeontologists for almost 100 years.
UCD scientist secures lead role in expedition to explore impact of climate change on world's oceans
Guided by satellite communities and oceanographic data, The Tara, a thirty-six metre schooner fitted with the most advanced technologies for investigating planktonic life in the world’s oceans will set sail this weekend from Lorient in France for a three-year scientific expedition of the world’s oceans.
Dinosaurs may have evolved wings to impress breeding mates
For decades scientists have debated the controversial subject of why dinosaurs evolved the ability to fly. Several theories have been suggested including one which claims that these "proto-birds" flapped their forelimbs like wings to give them additional thrust to climb while escaping from predators, and another which describes wings as evolving to help dinosaurs jump out of trees and glide to the ground.
Fish oils reduce greenhouse gas emissions from ‘flatulent cows’
At a recent meeting of the Society for General Microbiology, researchers from University College Dublin reported that by including 2% fish oil in the diet of cattle they achieved a reduction in the amount of methane released by the animals. Lowering methane emissions is important for the environment, as methane given off by farm animals is a major contribution to greenhouse gas levels
Secret sex life of killer fungus discovered
Scientists at University College Dublin and the University of Nottingham have identified the sexual behaviour of a common microscopic fungus called Aspergillus fumigatus which is a major cause of death in people with weakened immune systems. Until now, the fungus, which was first described over 145 years ago, was thought to have no sexual cycle and to reproduce only by asexual spores.
Eye from the Irish Sea wins images of research competition
A photographic image showing the intricately shaped iris of a spotted ray from the Irish Sea has won first prize in the UCD Images of Research Competition.
School Seminar SeriesSeminars take place on Thursdays during term from 1-2 pm in Room B109, Science Centre West