CuriosiTY Programme

A structured, immersive week-long programme funded by Research Ireland that allows transition year pupils to gain first hand experience of working in a biomedical research environment

What is CuriosiTY?

The CuriosiTY programme is a structured, immersive week-long programme that allows transition year pupils to gain first hand experience of working in a STEM environment. UCD is a University for All. 80% of CuriosiTY pupils are from (opens in a new window)DEIS designated schools linked with UCD and schools in areas of geographical disadvantage nationally. Pupils can apply directly to the programme.

We aim to build an awareness, curiosity and confidence in science by providing pupils with a high-quality STEM work placement in UCD Conway Institute. Pupils work alongside postgraduates to experience first-hand the daily working life of scientists, and find out about STEM related careers that support biomedical research.

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About CuriosiTY

CuriosiTY focuses on increasing awareness of STEM education and careers as well as developing senior cycle key competencies within a framework that provides equity of access and widens participation.

The programme has been co-designed with pupils, teachers and staff in UCD Access & Lifelong Learning, this initiative includes targeted measures to enable participation by pupils who may experience social, economic or geographical disadvantage.

CuriosiTY provides experiences that support development in line with the four student dimensions of the NCCA Transition Year Programme Statement. Pupils will learn how science works as a multidisciplinary, global endeavour to address societal challenges underpinned by a variety of STEM careers to support this enterprise.

More than 250 pupils have attended the CuriosiTY placement weeks to date. CuriosiTY has also reached more than 1000 pupils through additional school visits to DEIS designated schools across the country. CuriosiTY school based events are hosted by CuriosiTY pupil ambassadors and led by postgraduates

In addition, 95 UCD postgraduate researchers have been trained in public engagement to lead the delivery of the CuriosiTY programme. They guide pupils in exploring the world of research through hands-on laboratory, research seminars and career talks.

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CuriosiTY placement week

A CuriosiTY placement week runs from Monday to Friday, from 10am to 4pm daily. There are 4 placement weeks scheduled per school year. Pupils take part in a programme of tours, talks and hands-on lab activities. They also get to meet researchers at their benches in research laboratories to understand the daily life of a scientist and explore the world of research.

Industry professionals and current UCD undergraduate students are invited to speak with the students, sharing insights about their career progression and the challenges they have faced along the way.

Who can apply?

The CuriosiTY programme is open to transition year pupils who have a keen interest in STEM. We specifically encourage participation by pupils from DEIS designated schools and those linked to the (opens in a new window)Amgen Biotechnology Experience programme outside of Dublin. We currently have a waiting list in place for direct applicants who wish to attend.

To enquire about future places in this programme, email: (opens in a new window)curiosityprogramme@ucd.ie

We directly engage with schools to promote CuriosiTY, emphasising equal access, inclusion, and diversity. The programme removes logistical barriers to access. We provide transport to and from UCD. Pupils are given lunch vouchers each day to explore the campus and eat in one of the many food outlets.

Pupils are encouraged to self-select for the programme or teachers nominate pupils most likely to benefit.

CuriosiTY is positively impacting TY pupils’ lives:

"I was unsure about college but I definitely want to go now”

"It was such a great opportunity for our students and has given them so much confidence”

"You have certainly given our students an experience of a lifetime...I have five converted scientists for certain".

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