A TV series aims to showcase the remarkable discoveries being made by Irish scientists, writes Dick Ahlstrom
A discovery by an Irish scientist has helped stop a form of leukaemia in its tracks. Work by another may yield a cure for malaria. Others are studying how to overcome brain injury, reverse serious bowel disorders and counter climate change.
A seven-part television series starting on RTÉ One tonight celebrates the work of these unsung heroes who strive towards the betterment of society while remaining virtually unrecognised. People can readily name major Irish figures in literature, music and dance, yet few can name even one leading researcher.
The Investigators will seek to counter that, showcasing the remarkable achievements being made by Irish scientists, explains series producer, Nuala Cunningham.
"The goal was to highlight some of the ground-breaking research being done by Irish scientists," she explains. "Our scientists are punching well above their weight and their work is internationally recognised, yet few people here know anything about the important work they do."
The series was filmed across Ireland, the UK, the US and Europe. "It is visually arresting and fast paced and will draw the viewer in and interest them." The half-hour programmes tell real stories about those involved in the research but also those who benefit directly from it.
"The idea is not to talk down to the viewer. The programmes give the viewer information in an accessible way, information that itself is inherently interesting and important," says Cunningham.
THE PROGRAMMES WILL look at areas where Irish scientists are having a real impact on problems important in a global context.
Tonight's programme highlights research into cancer. It describes work done by Prof Tom Cotter of University College Cork, whose key discovery allowed the development of a drug that can arrest one form of leukaemia.
Other subjects covered by the series include climate change, studies of the brain, work on a possible cure against malaria and how functional foods may be able to counter human ailments.
The series gives important insights into how the men and women involved in research make these discoveries. It also shows how research findings are brought out of the lab and into society where they work for the benefit of all.
The programmes will also put the work being done in an international context, with several Nobel laureates and leading scientists from abroad commenting on discoveries.
Funding for the series came from the Health Research Board, Environmental Protection Agency, Teagasc, Higher Education Authority, Science Foundation Ireland, Sustainable Energy Ireland and Discover Science and Engineering.
This reporter acted as scientific consultant.
The first programme in The Investigators series is on RTÉ One tonight at 10.45pm