by pulseprni | May 5, 2026 | Clients, News
Northern Ireland’s science, technology and education sectors will take centre stage at this year’s ESB Science Blast Belfast showcase, with a strong line-up of organisations demonstrating how STEM is driving innovation across the economy.
Taking place on Tuesday 5 May at ICC Belfast, the event will feature interactive exhibits from the Ulster Museum, Marble Arch Caves, Kainos, Armagh Planetarium, W5, NI Water and NI Fire & Rescue – highlighting the breadth of STEM capability across heritage, environmental science and digital technology.
The showcase forms part of one of Ireland’s largest STEM engagement programmes, which will welcome more than 17,000 students this year and surpassed the milestone of 100,000 participants since its launch.
Paul Kelly, CEO at the RDS said: “The RDS was founded almost 300 years ago with a mission to see Ireland thrive, and there is no better way to advance that mission than by sparking curiosity in the next generation. As we surpass the significant milestone of 100,000 participants, we are proud to provide a platform that builds the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to support innovation for decades to come.”
Paddy Hayes, ESB Chief Executive added “ESB Science Blast encourages students to ask questions about the world around them and to explore innovative possibilities. At ESB, we are proud to be partnering with the RDS on this unique programme, empowering young people to be curious, to think critically, and to interact positively with STEM – for future us!”
Since launching in 2010 as the RDS Primary Science Fair, and evolving into ESB Science Blast in 2019, the initiative has engaged pupils from across all 32 counties, connecting classroom learning with real-world industry.
Amy Harrington, Science and Technology Programme Manager, RDS said “By supporting teachers to move beyond teaching the answer to ‘teaching the method’ we are future-proofing Ireland. We are also ensuring that children from all 32 counties, including DEIS schools, Gaelscoileanna and students with special educational needs, are equipped with the critical thinking skills that every CEO, doctor, solicitor and citizen will need by 2040.”
Distinct from traditional science competitions, ESB Science Blast is non-competitive, with every participating class receiving feedback and recognition. The programme maintains near gender parity and supports DEIS schools and Irish-medium education, widening participation in STEM.
With global industries increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, climate innovation and advanced technologies, the Belfast showcase underlines Northern Ireland’s role in nurturing the next generation of talent and strengthening the future skills pipeline.
//ENDS
by pulseprni | Aug 28, 2025 | Clients, News
ARC Regulatory, a leading regulatory affairs and clinical research consultancy has announced the opening of a new office hub in Derry~Londonderry representing an investment of £250,000. This expansion marks another milestone in the company’s growth, following the recent launch of its £3 million state-of-the-art laboratory facilities in Belfast earlier this year.
The office in Ebrington Square will launch with an initial wave of recruitment for new roles in regulatory affairs and clinical research experts. These hires will join members of ARC Regulatory’s Belfast team who are originally from the Derry area and wish to work closer to home.
This first recruitment phase marks the start of ARC’s expansion in the North West, with plans to grow headcount further as the local talent pool develops and the right candidates are identified. The long-term vision includes moving into a larger office in the city and creating a significant number of high-value jobs, supporting both the company’s strategic growth and the region’s economic development.
The decision to open in Derry~Londonderry is further strengthened by ARC’s collaboration with the Personalised Medicine Centre, part of the Ulster University School of Medicine, which is based at Altnagelvin Hospital. This partnership provides access to an established life sciences network, world-class research, and a strong talent pipeline from Ulster University’s life sciences and personalised medicine courses at the Derry~Londonderry campus, all of which directly support ARC’s specialist skills needs.
The new office opening is further strengthening ARC Regulatory’s presence across Northern Ireland and its capacity to serve clients globally.
Seamus Kearney, CEO and Founder of ARC Regulatory, said: “Derry has an incredible pool of talent, a strong sense of community, and a growing reputation in life sciences. By opening our new office here, we’re creating opportunities for local people to build rewarding careers without having to leave the North West. With the support of Ulster University and its partners, we see a clear pathway from education and research into meaningful, high-impact work, and that’s exciting for both ARC Regulatory and the region as a whole.”
Professor David Gibson, Research Group Leader, Personalised Medicine Centre, School of Medicine, Ulster University, said: “ARC Regulatory’s expertise in regulatory affairs and clinical research is a welcome addition to the expanding life sciences cluster in the North West. Their presence demonstrates how collaboration in education and research between Ulster University and the life and health science sector can create the right conditions for innovative companies to flourish, while offering exciting career opportunities with global impact for our graduates in the region.”
by pulseprni | Jul 28, 2025 | Clients, News
Pulse PR was delighted to support Trainor Stone & Tile Limited in highlighting its largest project to date – a multi-million pound tiling contract at 20 Ropemaker Street, a landmark development in central London that will become the new headquarters of a prestigious international law.
The high-profile contract was secured earlier this year following a competitive tender process, with completion due in September 2025. Trainor Stone and Tile was selected for its competitive pricing, sustainable delivery model, and its track record of managing complex, high-end commercial projects with consistency and care.
The 20 Ropemaker project also marks the 60th project delivered by Trainor Stone and Tile in 2025 alone -a milestone that reflects the company’s rapid growth and expanding market share. With a strong operational base in London and a dedicated team headquartered at the Gasworks in Belfast, the company continues to build its reputation as one of the UK’s leading specialist sub-contractors.
Michael Halliday, Senior Quantity Surveyor at Trainor Stone and Tile, said: “As one of London’s most anticipated new office developments, 20 Ropemaker sets a new standard for design and sustainability. This is the biggest contract we’ve secured, and we’re absolutely delighted to be part of such a significant project. It’s a major boost for our team and a real reflection of the quality, consistency, and expertise we bring to every job. We’re proud to showcase our capabilities on a scheme of this scale.”
Originally founded by Peter Trainor as Trainor Contracts in 2012, the company was re-incorporated as Trainor Stone and Tile in 2015 – making 2025 the official 10-year anniversary of Trainor Stone and Tile. Since then, it has grown to become one of the most recognisable names in the sector, delivering standout projects including Netflix, Sony Music, Amazon, Estee Lauder, Harrods, Selfridges, and the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
With a full order book and multiple large-scale projects in the pipeline, the company is now strengthening its Belfast-based team to support continued expansion.
by pulseprni | May 26, 2025 | Clients, News
Following a highly successful series of events earlier this year, ESB Science Blast, the RDS-led initiative fostering young scientific minds, is set to ignite curiosity and celebrate STEM learning as it arrives in Belfast on Tuesday 3 June at the ICC.
Now in its sixth year, ESB Science Blast has engaged more than 82,000 students across Ireland reflecting the growing enthusiasm for STEM education nationwide.
This year’s Belfast event will feature schools from counties Antrim, Armagh, Down, Derry, Fermanagh and Tyrone and showcase 30 STEM-related projects, each exploring simple, thought-provoking scientific questions investigated by primary school students.
The event is organised by the RDS (Royal Dublin Society), which has a long-standing commitment to promoting science and education in Ireland.
In addition to the student projects, a range of leading organisations will exhibit at the event, offering fun, hands-on STEM experiences and demonstrations. Exhibitors at the Belfast event will include W5, Waterways Ireland, the Northern Ireland Fire Service, Ulster Museum, ESB, Marble Arch Caves, Kainos, NI Water, and the Armagh Planetarium. Their involvement will provide students with exciting opportunities to see how science, technology and engineering are applied in the real world.
Niamh De Loughry, RDS Deputy Chief Executive – Foundation, said:
“We are truly humbled by the incredible response from schools. It is inspiring to see the dedication of teachers and the boundless curiosity of pupils as they explore scientific questions in fun, hands-on and imaginative ways. ESB Science Blast continues to make STEM accessible and bring it to life for young people from a wide range of communities.”
Marguerite Sayers, Deputy Chief Executive, ESB, added:
“ESB Science Blast has been a transformative experience for thousands of students across Ireland. Supporting this initiative is one of the ways we help nurture a diverse talent pool and encourage children to see the endless possibilities a career in STEM can offer. We are proud to continue our partnership with the RDS and our mission to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders.”
The impact of ESB Science Blast extends beyond the showcase events. A recent national survey carried out by ESB and RED C Research highlights strong parental support for STEM education, with 80% of parents of primary school-aged children supporting participation in extracurricular STEM activities, and 54% actively encouraging their children’s interest in STEM subjects.
Furthermore, survey data shows:
- 71% of participating pupils reported improved teamwork skills
- 86% noted enhanced presentation skills
- 81% felt more confident applying STEM to real-life situations
ESB Science Blast plays a key role in developing essential life skills such as critical thinking, collaboration and confident communication – all of which are highly valued in today’s workforce.
The ongoing partnership between the RDS and ESB, extended for a further three years, reinforces a shared commitment to nurturing a scientifically literate and innovative future generation. The programme also champions inclusivity, with a strong focus on ensuring equal access for all students, including significant participation from DEIS schools (18%) and Gaelscoileanna (18%) nationally.
by pulseprni | Apr 30, 2025 | Clients, News
Farm support charity, Rural Support announces the launch of Farming in Partnerships, a new initiative which is part of DAERA’s transformational new Sustainable Agriculture Programme.
The Farming in Partnerships programme is designed to bring together farmers who do not have a ready successor with new entrants or other farm businesses who face limited access to land and other agricultural resources.
The programme is a direct response to two growing challenges in the farming community: the increasing number of family farms without a clear succession plan, and a rising generation of eager and skilled individuals who are ready to step into the world of farming but can’t find a way in.
Farming in Partnerships provides a space for new connections to form and helps participants explore a wide range of collaborative arrangements. From farm management opportunities and shared farming agreements to new enterprise development and long-term business partnerships, the goal is to build practical and lasting relationships that benefit both parties.
Each partnership is supported by Rural Support’s team of farm business mentors, who offer guidance at every stage of the journey. This includes help with relationship building, business planning, communication, and the financial aspects of working together.
According to the team at Rural Support, the process is designed to be gradual, guided, and grounded in real-world farming experience. It recognises that handing over a farm – or stepping into one—is a deeply personal and complex decision. That’s why mentoring and tailored support are key components of the programme.
Catherine McKenna from Rural Support said, “This programme is about creating opportunities for the next generation of farmers, and for those established farmers who want to see their life’s work carried on. We know these conversations aren’t always easy, but with the right support, they can be transformative. Farming in Partnerships is about building trust, opening doors, and keeping land in use for the future.”
For those who have worked on farms but never had the opportunity to take ownership, or for those thinking about the future of their own business but unsure where to start, Farming in Partnerships offers a positive way forward.
Anyone interested in finding out more is encouraged to contact Rural Support to explore the options available and begin the conversation. Contact: farmgenerations@ruralsupport.org.uk or 02886760040
by pulseprni | Apr 14, 2025 | Clients, News
eComm Live 2025 Unveils the Playbook for Ecommerce Success in Belfast
eComm Live, Ireland’s leading ecommerce conference, returns to Belfast on Wednesday 30 April and Thursday 1 May 2025, promising two action-packed days of insight, innovation, and inspiration for retailers, agencies, founders, and software providers.
Held at The Assembly Buildings Conference Centre and surrounding venues, this year’s theme, ‘The 2025 Playbook for Success,’ sets the tone for an event focused on navigating the future of ecommerce. Attendees will explore a dynamic agenda covering the most pressing topics in the industry, including Cross-Border Growth, Social Commerce, and the launch of Amazon.ie.
With over 400 ecommerce professionals expected from across Ireland and the UK, eComm Live 2025 will offer unmatched opportunities for learning, networking, and collaboration.
This year’s confirmed speakers include Grace Beverley, Founder, TALA, Niall Horgan, CEO & Co-Founder, Gym+Coffee, Lucie Macleod, Founder, Hair Syrup, Sarah Esler, Head of Digital Product, Brown Thomas Arnotts and Nilam Atodaria, Brand Partnerships Manager, TikTok.
Beyond the keynotes and breakout sessions, delegates can look forward to a vibrant lineup of social and networking events, making it easy to connect with peers, thought leaders, and potential partners in an energetic and supportive environment.
For more information and tickets, visit: www.ecomm.live
//ENDS
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