Science Spin May 2010

Issue 40 - Digital Edition

This month, we introduce our new School Spin section, which will cover all things related to science in our schools. This issue, we discuss the reasons why Irish students' performace in maths is mediocre, report from the recent Debating Science Issues finals, and herald the arrival of SciFest at venues all around the country. Meanwhile, in Spin Active, our section dedicated to the application of science in industry, we discuss the potential for high-technology companies to get involve in offshore activities, while welcoming the establishment of five new R&D competence centres based in our universities. In the body of the magazine, we continue our series investigating the amazing human brain, describe the geology and biology of the Burren, showcase some outstanding images of Burren insects, detail the science behind the ongoing volcanic eruptions in Iceland, and give our view on the battle that has erupted in Northern Ireland over who controls scientific data.

Features in this issue

• The Burren: Shaped by Geology [Earth Science ]