Caoimhe Cronin and Shauna Murphy went to the Irish State Laboratories in Celbridge to present their BT project to the State  Scientists in their own environment and auditorium. There was over fifty State Scientists in attendance. This is the first time the Department of Agriculture has sponsored a special prize in BT Young Scientist Exhibition.  The girls did a fantastic job in preparing their slides and giving a joint verbal presentation.

The feedback from the group  included:

• Fantastic presentation skills with ability to make it easy to understand.
• They recognised their confidence in the topic and their ability to answer multiple scientific questions from the Scientists
• They showed a depth of knowledge in science, physics and chemistry way beyond their years, some asking had they considered publishing as a masters.
• The team recognised their commitment from their initial radon project and the development of their project and the extensive work this took.
• One scientist felt they were a role model for the next generation in encouraging others to continue with science.

The girls also had the opportunity to visit the State laboratories and learn about virology, animal pathology and seed and plant testing.  This trip brought to an end their BTYSE   journey as the girls will be going into Leaving Certificate in August, 2018.  This special award was a fitting conclusion where they were recognised by Irish Senior State Scientists for their in-depth scientific capability and presentation skills.