The IRIS Awards 2025

On 17th October we gathered at the Francis Crick Institute for one of the biggest evenings of the year – the IRIS Awards! It was a celebration of the outstanding achievements of students, teachers, school leaders, and partners who have who have brought authentic research into the classroom.  

The evening brought together a vibrant community of school-age students, teachers and collaborators from across the UK. The event showcased how student-led research is not only transformative for education, but also for society. From projects covering AI and Machine Learning in Mountain Search and Rescue, to environmental innovation, young people working with IRIS conducted research that has a real-world impact. 

IRIS is a UK charity working to change the culture in education, so that every young person gets involved in authentic research and innovation while at school. We provide free opportunities for young people aged 11-18 to participate in cutting-edge STEM research and collaborate with leading universities and institutions. 

The spirit of collaboration was evident throughout the evening, as students, teachers and researchers came together not only to celebrate individual achievements, but to also share discoveries and generate excitement about STEM research. Professor Tom Welton OBE, senior research investigator and professor of sustainable chemistry at Imperial College London, gave an inspiring keynote speech on the power of research. 

Connor from Camborne Science and International Academy took home the Best Research Project Award for his truly ambitious original research project: “Intelligent rescue: Leveraging machine learning AI for the greater good in mountain search and rescue.” He worked on improving the discovery of people caught in avalanches, training a machine-learning algorithm on stock images. His idea was to implement software onto drones to reduce the time it takes to find people who are in trouble. Connor used feedback in order to develop his project and showed incredible resilience in following it through to the end, producing something that has real-world application.  

Connor said:

“AI is inconclusive, there are always newer technologies being developed constantly. You can’t go into it with a definite plan.”

Students from Limavady Grammar School in Northern Ireland were highly commended for the Positive Impact Award for their research tackling the issue of blue-green algae in Lough Neagh. They designed two methods to help reduce blue-green algae which is causing many problems in the local area. Their use of hydroponics and solar powered pumps helped stir the water and reduce algae growth.  

Ross from Limavady Grammar School said:

“There’s been a lot in the news recently about what effect its having. It’s defining for our country. So it feels rewarding, and it does feel empowering.” 

Dr Jo Foster, Director of IRIS, said: 

“All young people deserve opportunities to do real research in school. Students already have a huge amount of curiosity, and our projects equip them with the collaboration and problem-solving skills that are vital if we are to build a thriving STEM workforce. What we’ve seen from these young people tonight is so impressive. These are the young researchers solving the problems of tomorrow.” 

We’re proud of all students who took part in a project this year, and grateful to our community of educators, researchers, partners and supporters who make these projects possible. The IRIS awards evening is a celebration of perseverance, big ideas and collaboration. A showcase of what is possible when students have access to real research in schools.