Matrix NI plenary meeting at Catalyst Innovation Centre, Belfast
Matrix NI -the Northern Ireland Science Industry panel, has recently appointed eight new panel members reaffirming its commitment to innovation and collaboration in Northern Ireland. Professor Helen McCarthy (Chief Scientific and Technology Adviser) has also been welcomed as a new ex officio panel member at the recent plenary meeting held at the Catalyst Innovation Centre, Belfast.
Matrix is an industry-led advisory panel with a current membership of 17, its main function is to advise government and inform academia and industry on the commercial exploitation of research and development, and science and technology in Northern Ireland.
Rob Hill (Matrix, Chair) welcomed the new members commenting: “The sectoral representation of Matrix NI is key and we have a wealth of industry leaders with vast local and international experience to confidently fulfil its remit”.
Professor Helen McCarthy was invited to deliver a presentation at the plenary meeting giving an overview of her priorities in her role as Chief Scientific and Technology Adviser for N Ireland, before leading an engaging discussion.
Two young innovators, Ronan Scullion and Laochra Hill from St. Colman’s College, Newry, also joined the meeting sharing insights on their project for the BT Young Scientist Awards. The pupils presented their innovative solution to the Lough Neagh blue green algae challenge, sparking a valuable discussion on the commercialisation of solutions for the Lough. They will be going forward to present their findings at the BTYSTE 2025 Exhibition on the 8th – 10th January at the RDS in Dublin. The Matrix panel wished the boys every success in the next round of the competition.
L-R Robert Hill (Matrix Chair) Ronan Scullion, Pauline Crowl (St Colman’s, teacher), Laochra Hill and Helen Doherty (St Colman’s, VP)
Robert Hill (Matrix Chair), added his support by commenting:
“Congratulations to St. Colman’s on their entry at the BTSYE 2025 exhibition, it is fantastic to see a local school take part in the competition and participate in this very unique opportunity for young people, demonstrating STEM excellence in schools across the island of Ireland.”
The Chair concluded following the successful plenary session that the Matrix panel is now entering exciting phase to make further impact with upcoming foresight sectorial studies and wider stakeholder engagement.
Notes to editors
Matrix is Northern Ireland’s Science and Industry Advisory Panel, a Department for the Economy supported body that promotes science, technology, and innovation across the region.
Mission
Matrix connects industry leaders, government, and academia to identify and address key challenges, aiming to advance Northern Ireland’s competitiveness globally and foster a vibrant, innovation-driven economy.
Prof. Peter Simpson – brings extensive leadership in life sciences, guiding innovation at Dia Beta Labs.
Charlie Tuxworth – a leader in innovation management and founder of Innovate Island.
Prof. Joann Rhodes – CEO of HIRANI, accelerates local health sciences growth.
Dr. Katrina Thompson – Artemis Technologies, leads groundbreaking projects in maritime technology.
Paddy Mallon – brings 38 years in aerospace and defense.
Dr. Simon Grattan – excels in fibre optic sensors and brings significant R&D&I experience across a range of sectors
Sam Turner – drives advanced manufacturing at AMIC in Belfast.
Andrew Bruce – Director at Expleo, delivering tech solutions across Ireland with three decades in software engineering.
Joining as an ex-officio member:
Prof Helen McCarthy – the Chief Scientific and Technology Adviser
What we do
Matrix produces in-depth reports and policy recommendations and collaborates with a wide array of stakeholders to implement impactful strategies in science and technology.
Key Focus Areas Sustainability, Future of Work & Skills, Emerging technologies
Links to all MATRIX reports found in the MATRIX Library
https://matrixni.org/matrix-reports/
Contact details
Enquiries relating MATRIX should be directed to the MATRIX secretariat at
info@matrix-ni.org
https://matrixni.org/