About Postgraduate Studies & Research Opportunities In Science in Limerick Institute of Technology

Programme Aims:

Research in LIT’s Department of Applied Science aims to expose you to leading edge ideas, technologies and procedures. The research will produce a high quality, problemsolving graduate with high competency in modern analytical methodologies in their chosen field. You will have the ability to function in a logical and professional manner and be able to exercise judgement and initiative.

Approach To Research

We take a methodical approach to research which follows a logical progression. This begins with an initial detailed literature search to establish existing state-of-the-art studies in your chosen areas. This is followed by practical work, to either develop novel techniques or apply existing techniques to unique applications. You will be allocated an internal supervisor, and possibly an external supervisor, where an industrial link exists. Supervisors advise you on the direction of the work based on results presented to them. On completion of practical work a written thesis is submitted to an external examiner. Throughout your period of research, you are encouraged to present your work at conferences and publish papers in scientific journals. You are also encouraged to network with other researchers, supervisors and industry throughout your studies.

Research Areas

Biotechnology

Nutraceuticals – The Shannon Applied Biotechnology Centre (Shannon ABC) is a Research Centre set-up with IT Tralee to identify the presence of Bioactive Components in Natural Resources. Food Science – Microbial Bioactivity Screening of Foods. Bioassay Development – Bioanalysis Development of Enzymatic & Spectrophotometric Assays for application in Analysis of Food Constituents, etc.

Environmental Monitoring & Management

Development of Analytical Methods for Pollution Control, Wastewater Treatment Management and Control, Bio-monitoring and Sensor Technology for Air, Water and Soil Ecosystems. Soil Science & CO2 Sequestration. Development of Conservation & Management strategies of Freshwater Fish Resources in Ireland. Wetland Ecology Conservation & Management, including Analysis of Biogeofunctional Factors.

Forensic Drug Analysis

Development of Analytical Methods for the Analysis of new Drugs in Forensic Cases such as: Drugs in Sport, Driving under the Influence of Drugs, and Faster Analysis of Existing Drugs.

Pharmaceutical Analysis

Development & Validation of Analytical Methods for the Pharmaceutical Industry, with the aim of increasing efficiency of QC Analysis on Drug Formulations.

Space Life Science

Development of novel Hydroponic Technologies for Space Life Science Applications and Industries e.g. NASA & ESA. Research includes technology transfer to terrestrial applications for the Nutraceutical, Agriculture, Horticultural & Brewing Industries.

The Controlled Environment Laboratory for Life Sciences (CELLS) offers postgraduate opportunities with potential placement opportunities in the Space Life Science Research Laboratory, NASA, Kennedy Space Centre, Florida, USA. CELLS house the only Growth Chamber Technology in Europe designed to specifications used by researchers in the Space Life Science Laboratory in KSC.

Want More?

If you would like to know more about the opportunities for a Masters in Science, contact the Graduate Studies and Research Office for a handbook with further information of what’s on offer.

Entry Procedure

By application when new research positions are advertised. Collaborative research with industry is welcomed. Minimum Entry Requirements for a MSc. is a BSc with second class honours Grade 2 in relevant discipline

IELTS score for entry to graduate courses a minimum score of 6.0