A new Irish-language documentary commission has been announced as part of Science on Screen, an initiative supporting the development of films that explore scientific research for wider public audiences.

The initiative will support the production of a 25-minute Irish-language documentary focused on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) which will have a festival run before broadcast on TG4.

The project forms part of the STEM as Gaeilge initiative, a two-year national programme funded by Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland through the Discover Programme, led by Dr Fintan Hegarty and Professor Cathal Seoighe at University of Galway. STEM as Gaeilge aims to increase engagement with science, technology, engineering and mathematics within Irish-speaking communities and to support pathways for Irish speakers in STEM education and careers.

The successful production team will be awarded €40,000 to complete the film by March 2027.

Dr Fintan Hegarty, STEM as Gaeilge Project Lead, said: "It’s great to have the opportunity to be involved in this Science on Screen initiative. By bringing filmmakers together with Irish-speaking researchers, this commission offers a unique opportunity to develop compelling STEM stories through the distinct perspective of the Irish language. It’s a chance to open up new ways of seeing and sharing science, while supporting deeper engagement with STEM within Irish-speaking communities and beyond."

Science on Screen is a partnership between CÚRAM, the Taighde Éireann – Research Ireland Centre for Medical Devices at University of Galway, and production company Ardán. The initiative supports the production of documentaries that explore scientific research through film and animation. To date, 10 documentaries have been produced on subjects including Parkinson’s disease, stroke prevention and diabetes research, reaching global audiences of almost 2 million people and achieving 13 television broadcasts.

An information session for filmmakers will take place on Friday May 15^th from 10am to 1pm at CREW Creative Enterprise West in Wellpark, Galway City. The event will bring together Irish-speaking researchers from a range of STEM disciplines, who will present their work and discuss their relationship with the Irish language. A Q&A and networking session will follow, offering filmmakers an opportunity to develop documentary ideas and connect with potential contributors.

Professor Abhay Pandit, Director of CÚRAM said: "We're delighted that our Science on Screen programme can support this initiative to showcase the creativity, talent and innovation in STEM in Ireland and important impact that people working through the Irish language in these fields have on and in our society."

Advance registration for the information day is required and available at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/ardn1/2143389.

Applications for the commission open at 10am on 18 May 2026 and close on 22 June 2026. For more information visit https://curamdevices.ie/science-on-screen-info-day-2026/.  

Ends