South East Science Festival addresses life science skills shortages
The South East Science Festival is back for its 26th year to promote careers in the science sector and address acute skilled labour shortages in the region which have been exacerbated since the pandemic.
Run by Calmast, the festival comes as latest data from the South East Regional Skills Forum shows acute shortages life science sector, where jobs in manufacturing, science (microbiology and chemistry), automation, lab work, quality control, and regulatory affairs are proving difficult to fill.
The life sciences sector in the South East employs 12,600 people. The largest 10 pharmaceutical companies employ 5,200 staff and the largest 10 medical device manufacturers employ 6,600 staff in the South East. This sector has an ongoing requirement for science and engineering professionals and associate professionals as well as semi-skilled operatives/technicians.
This year’s Festival promises discussion and debate in key areas such as tackling coastal erosion with Copper Coast geologist, Robbie Galvin, and the science behind networking at a Networking Ireland event at Faithlegg House Hotel.
The free programme has more than 50 events will take place from 9-16 November across Waterford city, county, Clonmel, Carrick on Suir in Tipperary, and Carlow.
Dr Sheila Donegan, Calmast, said: “People think of Science Week and they automatically think that everything is focused on schools and on children. The South East Science Festival has something for everyone. Whether you’re curious about what makes whisky taste different, want to know more about combating coastal erosion, learn more about our solar system, get advice on ageing, our events show just how relevant the scientific principles of physics, chemistry and biology are in our everyday lives.
“The South East has become a magnet for science, technology and pharmaceutical firms. The growing sector offers great job prospects for graduates with science-related skills and a world of opportunities, rewarding salaries and a chance to travel the world. We want to showcase how exciting and wonderful science is to all age cohorts, all groups and further boost the take-up of STEM-related programmes in SETU and other universities.”
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