Two Special Events Mark 300 Years of Botany at Trinity College Dublin

Posted on: 13 May 2011

The discipline of Botany started as an adjunct to Medicine and has been taught in Trinity College Dublin since 1711.  To celebrate 300 years of Botany at Trinity College two special events, which included the launch of Trees of Trinity College booklet and a public lecture by Professor of Botany at Oxford University, Liam Dolan on 'Botany: Seeding the Future', took place at TCD's Botany department. 

The third edition of the Trees of Trinity College booklet was launched by Professor of Genetics, David McConnell.  The booklet presents information on the geographical origin, defining features, growth prospects, horticultural value and economic uses of 52 of the College's trees.  The book, which includes colour illustrations throughout the text by Elaine Cullen of the Geology department, and colour photographs by staff and students of the College, acts as a current and comprehensive resource for those interested in the College's rich botanical history.  The launch was followed by guided walks around the College grounds.  Trees of Trinity College booklet is on sale in both the College bookshop and the Science Gallery for €5.

Sherardian Professor of Botany at Oxford University, Professor Liam Dolan delivered a public lecture entitled 'Botany: Seeding the Future'.  During his lecture Professor Dolan explored the history of plant science with a particular focus on his own area of research which entails understanding the genetics of root systems to help boost nutrient absorption by crops to deliver bigger yields.  With the Earth's population likely to explode in the coming century, Professor Dolan believes learning to use land more efficiently to produce more crops will be essential for the planet's future.  The potential uses of plants to both medicine and science were also explored during the lecture.