Maynooth University was delighted to welcome Nobel Prize-winning astronomer Professor Brian Schmidt for the Faculty of Science and Engineering’s Dean’s Lecture, delivered to a full house at the TSI Building on Monday evening.
In his talk, titled The Universe from Beginning to End, Prof Schmidt guided the audience through more than 13 billion years of cosmic history — from the Big Bang to the far future of the universe. He shared insights from his Nobel Prize-winning research on the accelerating expansion of the universe, shedding light on dark energy, black holes and the fundamental mysteries that continue to challenge physicists and astronomers today.
The lecture attracted a capacity crowd, with over 250 attendees including students, faculty, researchers and members of the wider public. Prof Schmidt’s engaging delivery, humour, and ability to communicate complex scientific ideas with clarity and relatability were warmly received. A dynamic Q&A session followed, with thoughtful questions from an enthusiastic and curious audience.
Prof Schmidt is a Distinguished Professor of Astronomy at the Australian National University. Raised in Montana and Alaska, he received his PhD from Harvard University in 1993 and joined the staff of the Australian National University in 1995. He served as the 12th Vice-Chancellor and President of the Australia National University from 2016 to 2023.
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| MU's Interim Dean of Faculty of Science & Engineering Prof Paul Moynagh & Prof Brian Schmidt | The capacity audience in attendance |
Professor Paul Moynagh, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, remarked; “It was a privilege to welcome Professor Schmidt to the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Maynooth University. His lecture was inspiring to the full-house attendance. Prof Schmidt gave a masterclass in public science engagement and enthralled both scientists and non-scientists alike. Above all, his lecture was a wonderful reminder of the power of science to address our curiosity and explore the wonder and enormity of our universe".
Prof Schmidt also shared his thoughts on the visit; “It was a pleasure to speak at Maynooth University and be able to tell the story of the Universe with such a diverse and engaged audience. The fact that so many people from outside the university were in attendance shows that Maynooth has a great connection to its community, which is a hallmark of an outstanding University. I have really enjoyed my time here, and my chance to learn about all the great things that are happening in this beautiful place.”
Earlier in the day, Prof Schmidt also met with researchers and postgraduate students from across the faculty, offering perspectives on global research collaboration, science policy, and academic leadership.
The Dean’s Lecture Series is a flagship event for the Faculty of Science and Engineering, highlighting its ongoing commitment to bringing world-leading research and thought leadership to the campus and wider community.
Prof Brian Schmidt joined Jonathan McCrea on Newstalk's flagship science programme Futureproof ahead of the Dean's Lecture at MU. Listen back here: https://www.newstalk.com/podcasts/futureproof-with-jonathan-mccrea/what-we-know-and-dont-know-about-the-cosmos
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L-R: MU's Interim Dean of the Faculty of Science & Engineering Prof Paul Moynagh, Prof Brian Schmidt, Dr Robert Elmes from MU's Dept of Chemistry