The International Association of Physics Students (IAPS), in its capacity as the Affiliated Commission 5 (AC5) of the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP), is thrilled to announce Conor Ryan (School of Physics, Trinity College Dublin) as the recipient of the prestigious Early Career Scientist Prize. The AC5 Early Career Scientist Prize is a milestone in Conor Ryan’s career, recognizing his exceptional contributions and inspiring continued pursuit of knowledge and engagement in physics.
Since its establishment in 1987, IAPS has been dedicated to fostering international collaboration among physics students, guided by its motto: “by Physics Students, for Physics Students.” The AC5 Early Career Scientist Prize empowers this commitment, celebrating those who demonstrate exceptional dedication and passion for physics within the global youth scientific community.
Conor Ryan’s journey in physics is marked by academic excellence and impactful contributions to the physics community. Selected as a 2021 Laidlaw Scholar at Trinity College Dublin (TCD) during the COVID-19 pandemic, Conor embarked on a rigorous program to develop leadership skills and undertook a pioneering research project on quantum technology, supervised by Prof. Alessandro Lunghi.
Beyond his research, Conor demonstrated outstanding leadership within the Theoretical Physics Student Association (TPSA), where he played a key role in organizing events, enhancing academic opportunities, and advocating for Ireland’s CERN membership. His efforts lead to the successful hosting of the PLANCKS 2024 finals and the establishment of new roles within TPSA to ensure its lasting impact.
Conor’s second summer as a Laidlaw Scholar took him to the University of Parma, where he advanced his research in quantum technology and engaged in outreach activities, inspiring local secondary school students with workshops on quantum computing. His academic journey continued to flourish as he achieved a first-class grade in his final year research project and was awarded a Gold Medal by Trinity College Dublin.
One of Conor’s notable achievements was his involvement in Ireland’s successful application for CERN membership. Collaborating with academics and political figures, Conor played a vital role in reigniting efforts for membership, emphasizing the future benefits for students and the broader physics community.
Currently pursuing a Master’s in Quantum Science and Technology at Trinity, Conor continues to excel academically and serves as an IOP Campus Ambassador.
“We are immensely proud to award the AC5 Early Career Scientist Prize to Conor Ryan,” said IAPS President Cyrus Walther. “Conor’s dedication to academic excellence, leadership, and outreach embodies the spirit of this prize. This is the first year the award has been awarded in this way, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to IUPAP for their support. Together, we are paving the way for the next generation of leaders in physics.”
The School of Physics would like congratulate Conor on this significant achievement wish him the best for his future career.
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IAPS Announces Winner of the AC5 Early Career Scientist Prize: Conor Ryan – IAPS