With just the slightest hint of whimsy — and of very little to do with Shane wanting to see the rugby — we changed tack a little, and instead of sending a cheque or a bank transfer decided that the Irish winners ought be presented with cash.

So on the 7th February, Shane filled a suitcase with money, I’m a Scientist mugs, and probably only the one rugby jersey and set off for Dublin.

As a little party, and to make the prize giving into a bit more of a presentation. A host of faces were invited to Science Gallery for the afternoon. Faces of scientists and of funders, including Stephanie O’Neill from SFI and ESERO.

The €2,000 in prizes will go towards projects on improving visitors’ experiences in zoos, taking scientists into schools, and finding “novel ways of communicating the beauty and intrigue of space.”

Thanks to Joe for hosting at Science Gallery, to the funders for making I’m a Scientist possible, to everyone there for looking after Shane, and for the 26-3 score bringing him back to I’m a Scientist towers in such a good mood.