The Women in Research Ireland Showcase 2026 meeting was held in the Knowledge Exchange, Trinity College on Friday March 13th.

 This annual meeting gives women, undertaking research in any area, the opportunity to present their work to a wide audience.

This year the areas covered included Reproductive Health; Clinical and Biomedical Innovations; Mental Health and Care Systems; Law, Policy and Gender Justice; Education, Leadership and System Change. Prof Siobhan O’Mahony, UCC was the keynote speaker.

Myself and Michaela Nudo flew the flag for the School of Social Work and Social Policy, each of us giving a 5 minute presentation about our PhD work to date.

My paper “ Doctor, we’re thinking about having a baby” outlined my journey from medical doctor to researcher, my research topic “ an exploration of the experience of same sex female identifying couple,s who have used assisted human reproduction, of their interactions with the medical profession”, the context for the topic and my research plan.

The day was very successful and a lucky Friday 13th for me, as I was awarded a certificate of merit for my presentation.

This annual event is very enjoyable and gives attendees the opportunity to hear about the wide range of research that is being undertaking by women all over the country. It is also a great opportunity for networking and meeting others with similar research interests.

I would encourage others, especially fellow PhD students, to watch for the call for submission of abstracts for next year’s showcase, which is held in March, to coincide with International Women’s Day and to plan to give a presentation. It’s well worth the time, effort and the experience.