Boffins head for Kerry

THE place of science in everyday life — from the mobile phone to the microwave — will be among the subjects to be looked at closely at the 41st annual conference of the Irish Science Teachers’ Association (ISTA), in Tralee, Co Kerry, at the weekend.

A list of high-profile speakers, including forensic scientist Dr Jim Donovan, has been assembled for the event which will be attended by 500 delegates.

There will be field trips to some Kerry scenic spots, with Eanna Ní Lamhna, conducting a tour to Killarney National Park.

Other tours will take in the Tom Crean Antarctica Exhibition at the County Museum, in Tralee, and Klinge pharmaceutical plant, in Killorglin.

Dr Helen Whelton will focus on the controversial subject, flouride and dental care, while West Kerryman, Dr Lorcan Ó Cinneide, will talk on the science of fish stock management.

On the opening night, Dr William Reville of UCC will speak on What is Science?

The Brandon Hotel, Tralee, and the Institute of Technology will be used as venues for the conference which concludes on Sunday.