A postgraduate researcher exploring disabled women’s sexual rights has won the top prize and the Audience Choice Award at University of Galway’s Threesis 2026, showcasing the very best in research communication.
Grace Barnes earned first place ahead of 10 fellow finalists at the Threesis Grand Finale, a research communication competition challenging postgraduate researchers to present their work in just three minutes, using three slides.
The finalists showcased research topics ranging from cancer biology, neuroscience and medical innovation to air quality, education and social justice, highlighting both the diversity and real-world impact of research underway at the University.
Aengus Parsons, Acting Vice-President for Research and Innovation at University of Galway, said: “Threesis continues to be a standout event in our academic calendar, showcasing the exceptional talent of our postgraduate researchers. The ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and engagingly in just three minutes is no small feat, and this year’s finalists demonstrated remarkable skill, creativity and insight. My congratulations to the winners and finalists, and to all those who took part.”
Originally from Devon in England, Grace Barnes is a PhD researcher at the University’s Centre for Disability Law and Policy, under the supervision of Professor Eilionóir Flynn and Hardiman Scholar funded by Research Ireland.
Her Threesis presentation focused on disabled women’s sexuality within the European Court of Human Rights and how this shapes access to sexual rights and identity. Drawing on analysis of case judgments and engagement with disabled women, she explained how legal frameworks can shape both rights and self-identity.
Her presentation combined compelling storytelling with sharp insight and resonated strongly with both the judges and audience members, securing both first place and the Audience Choice Award.
Second place went to Adam Collison, a PhD researcher from Dromineer, Co Tipperary. A physics graduate of the University, he is now based in the School of Natural Sciences, where he aims to help shape retrofit practices that deliver both lower carbon emissions and healthier spaces for building occupants.
Third place went to Sienna Stucke, a Pharmacology PhD student, originally from Minnesota in the US, whose research explores the therapeutic potential of parasitic worms, known as helminths, in treating neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases.
The judges for this year’s competition, which attracted 65 entries, were Kevin Murray, 2025 Threesis winner, Audrey Bleach, Senior Culture and Operations Leader at Cisco, and Professor Dónal Leech, Dean of Graduate Studies at University of Galway.
