The IRIS Awards are an opportunity to celebrate students’ research and showcase their work to our partner scientists and educators. This year, we recognised these bright researchers, teachers and partners:
Altrincham Grammar School for Boys students used state-of-the-art artificial neural networks in their Big Data: ATLAS project to detect the Higgs boson and other exotic particles. Professor of particle physics from the University of Oxford, Alan Barr, commented that their research pushed the boundaries of the project.
Three students joined Hele’s School from different schools last year. Displaying fantastic teamwork, they overcame several challenges and worked together, showing significant personal growth. The team produced excellent Cosmic Mining research which went above and beyond the project resources.
Nick Harris, a Biology teacher at Tapton School, has shown an inspiring dedication to fostering research. Nick has consistently supported IRIS research, as well as hosting his Motor Neurone research group. He encouraged staff from other schools to engage in their own research and inspired former students to pursue academic research.
The ZeroAvia team behind our Future Flight project have gone above and beyond to inspire and educate students in the pursuit of greener flight. The team have dedicated much of their time to supporting students on the project. From hosting webinars, to speaking at student conferences; they have helped motivate and encourage our young researchers.
The King’s Academy took on two challenging projects where students demonstrated excellent scientific skills and tremendous growth. With teachers, technicians and other staff getting involved in facilitating research, their first year as an IRIS research school has been a fantastic one. They’ll also be host to the SEM next year – we can’t wait to see their findings!
Alanna Watson, a teacher at Salford City Academy and Rachel White, a teacher at Irlam and Cadishead Academy, both shared the honour of the award. Alanna designed a STEM enrichment strategy, including the creation of her own Formula 1-based programme. And Rachel developed a STEM enrichment timetable featuring the Industrial Cadet programme, trips to museums and a visit to CERN in Geneva.
