At a special ceremony today, global medical technology company, BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) through its BD Research Centre Ireland (RCI), awarded 10 scholarships and bursaries to University of Limerick (UL) students.
The programme is funded by the company through the UL Foundation and supports students from the University’s Access programme. The Access programme works to encourage the participation of students from groups who have been under-represented in the University sector.
Four female students studying science and engineering received the BD Bursaries for Women in STEM and six students were awarded the BD Scholarships in Science and Engineering based on academic achievement. Recipients of the bursaries and scholarships can also opt to have a professional mentor at BD.
Speaking at the launch, BD Site Director Sean Wall said: “The BD Scholarship and Bursary Programme was created to support under-represented student groups in science and engineering, while at the same time acknowledging outstanding academic achievement in Science and Engineering. We are delighted to be able to offer our support for this cause and hope that perhaps one day we can work together with the students here at BD Research Centre Ireland.”
Sarah Hartnett, Director of Development at the UL Foundation, responded by saying: “Partnerships like this one with BD are hugely important, as they support students on so many different levels: promoting women in STEM; encouraging diversity in science and engineering; and providing financial support and mentorship opportunities to those who need it most. Our thanks to BD for the leadership and commitment they have demonstrated with this initiative.”
Deirdre O’Connor, Access Officer at the University said: “Our Access students have the ability, determination, and work ethic to succeed, but the financial support and opportunities they receive through these BD scholarships and bursaries makes all the difference in transforming their educational journey. Thank you to all at BD for this invaluable support.”
BD RCI (Research Centre Ireland) is a state-of-the-art facility adjacent to the beautiful University of Limerick campus. It develops innovative technologies to improve biomedical discovery, clinical diagnosis of disease, and the delivery of care for patients and health care workers. 380 experts are employed in software development, software testing, systems engineering, mechanical and electronic engineering, project management, quality and biosciences including immunology. The diverse, collaborative team brings together people from 32 countries working in multidisciplinary teams to solve problems and advance the world of health.
