Derry student Sinead Brolly honoured with prestigious Ulster Scientists Trust Award

Sinead Brolly, an alumna of Lumen Christi College in Derry, has been awarded second prize at the prestigious Ulster Scientists Trust Awards for achieving one of the highest combined A-Level marks in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics in Northern Ireland.

The ceremony, held at the Ulster Museum on Thursday, January 8, 2026, celebrated the top-performing science students from across the province based on their 2025 examination results.

Currently studying Medicine at Queen’s University Belfast, Sinead was recognised for her exceptional academic dedication.

Sinead said, “This award means a lot to me having worked really hard throughout my A-Levels on all subjects, but science particularly. It’s an achievement I can carry through my medical career, and it affirms that I have chosen the right path continuing my studies in science.

“I think it’s really important that future students know how enjoyable the science subjects are to learn, so it’s great that the Trust’s awards celebrate students who choose to commit to biology, physics and chemistry.”

The first prize was awarded to Aoife Logue of The Royal School, Dungannon who is now studying Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology at the University of Cambridge. A third and final prize went to Fionntán Murtagh of Our Lady and St Patrick’s College, Knock, who is now attending Queen’s University Belfast to study Physics.

Professor Pascal McKeown, a trustee of the Ulster Scientists Trust and former Head of the School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences at Queen’s University, gave an address at the event commending the recipients, as well as their schools for encouraging their pursuit of STEM subjects.

He said, “By celebrating our school pupils, we motivate and encourage these pupils to continue their interest in science. We also demonstrate to future students how rewarding a career in STEM can be. I am heartened by the continued commitment and passion of our secondary schools towards the science subjects. These awards not only recognise the individual merits of these three pupils but also offer recognition to their schools for excellence in teaching.”

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Dr Geraldine Macartney, Chair of the Ulster Scientists Trust added, “The Trust receives nominations from schools all over Northern Ireland for which we are grateful, and through these awards, we can recognise and highlight the excellence in science teaching in schools.

“Over the years, people born in Northern Ireland have made enormous contributions to science and medicine all over the world. The Ulster Scientists Trust has a role in promoting awareness of these scientists to inspire and encourage students, making the Ulster Museum – a space known for its ability to spark curiosity - the perfect backdrop for today’s ceremony.”

Each year, around 40,000 pupils engage with National Museums NI’s learning programmes positioning its four museums not just as custodians of history, but as catalysts for positive change.

Recipients Fionntán Murtagh, Sinead Brolly and Aoife Logue

Jenny Haslett, Education Manager at National Museums NI, explained, “With the help of our wide network of partners, such as Ulster Scientists Trust, we continue to create meaningful learning experiences that equip the new generation of scientists and innovators with the skills and confidence necessary to help shape a better future.

"In today’s rapidly changing and challenging world, the ability to think creatively to solve problems, and adapt to new realities, is critical and we play a unique role in encouraging our visitors to recognise Northern Ireland’s legacy of innovation and ignite their curiosity to leverage the learnings of the past into the future.”