DkIT Cultivating the Next Generation of Science Lecturers
Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) are delighted to report on the career progression of several of its science graduates who are now on campus educating the next generation of science super stars to meet the thriving science industry employment needs.
One such graduate is Dr Leanna Morgan, a Lecturer in Biochemistry in DkIT who first stepped through the doors of the Institute in 2013 after completing her Leaving Certificate. Leanna loved her time as a student in DkIT so much that she has stayed in the Institute and has progressed “When I visited the DkIT campus, I was drawn to the science course, Applied Bioscience as it had a strong focus on the fundamental science disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. This was particularly significant to me as I had only covered biology in my leaving certificate, and I wanted to ensure I attained a comprehensive understanding of all scientific subjects”. Leanna progressed from her degree to her PhD to now her dream job which is lecturing Science students.
Leanna said of her time teaching so far, “What I truly appreciate about lecturing is the opportunity to share knowledge and motivate students, much like I was inspired. I enjoy lecturing in DkIT as it has the acute advantage of small class sizes to ensure all students receive the utmost support to achieve their full potential, something I am proud to be involved in”.
Clodagh King is another graduate who joined the Institute and also loved it so much she has stayed on after completing her undergraduate degree and is in the process of finalising her PhD whilst lecturing in Environmental Science
“I chose DkIT because, based on my experience, it was an excellent place to study, and conduct research. I also believed it would be a great environment to work and teach in, which has proven to be true.
I enjoy lecturing at DkIT because I believe I am making a meaningful difference. It gives me the opportunity to positively influence and inspire undergraduate students to get the most out of their time in higher education.
I like DkIT’s smaller-sized classes because they allow me to really get to know the students, understand their interests, and identify their strengths and areas where they can further develop. As an environmental scientist, I am passionate about sharing my knowledge and raising awareness among the future scientists of Ireland”.
Dr Ben Drumm also joined DkIT after his leaving certificate and has a phenomenal career progression in the Institute and is now a Lecturer in Biochemistry & Biotechnology and a Research Investigator in the Institute’s award winning and internationally renowned Smooth Muscle Research Centre.
"One of the biggest reasons why I love my job as a DkIT lecturer is that it’s actually lots of jobs wrapped into one. As a lecturer, you are an educator, a researcher, a writer, a content creator, a presenter and much more. Every class is an experiment, that never repeats or gets old. The engagement with new students every year never ceases to be stimulating and being in the classroom talking with our students is still what I most get excited about and look forward to.”
As the leading higher education provider in the region DkIT are completely committed to science as its one of the fastest growing industry sectors both locally and nationally. The Institute’s recent investment in a new state of the art science building, has increased their capacity on Life Science, Health Science and Agri-Food programmes, Not only is DkIT helping to meet the growing demand from employers in the region for high-quality graduates in these specialised areas they are cultivating the next generation of lecturers to future proof our national needs.
