Marine Biology graduate highly commended at Global Undergraduate Awards Summit

Marine Biology graduate Oona Lonergan attended the Global Undergraduate Awards Summit 2025 in Dublin, Ireland, from 9–12 November 2025. She was invited to the Summit after being named Highly Commended in the Earth & Environmental Sciences category for her undergraduate research in marine science and ocean modelling. She is one of only six students from Newcastle University to receive a Highly Commended award, and the first in the Natural and Environmental Sciences category.

The Summit programme included a series of academic sessions, workshops, and networking events designed to bring together top undergraduate researchers from around the world. During the poster session, Oona presented her own research, facilitating discussions with peers and academics from diverse disciplines and demonstrating the broader relevance of her work on ocean processes.

Oona said: “As a Marine Biology graduate with a strong interest in ocean modelling and environmental research, being selected as a Highly Commended entrant at the Global Undergraduate Awards was an incredible honour. Attending the Global Summit in Dublin was an opportunity I knew would be transformative. A chance to present my research, learn from global leaders, and meet fellow young scientists pushing the boundaries of their fields.”

Overall, the Summit provided exposure to international research perspectives, interdisciplinary thinking, and a global network of emerging scientists, while also highlighting the practical and professional skills necessary for early-career researchers.