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Project Code [2019-HW-PhD-5]
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Project title
Investigation into the sampling, modelling and chemical interactions of pollen via novel methodologies.
Primary Funding Agency
Irish Research Council
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
Environmental Protection Agency
Lead Organisation
Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin)
Lead Applicant
Emma Markey
Project Abstract
The proposed research will involve the collection and analysis of collected pollen samples/data using commonly employed (traditional) techniques, state of the art real-time devices and other spectroscopic methods. This work will provide information on average pollen concentrations, the most prevalent species and the seasonality of different pollen types in the Irish environment. This will provide vital information to those that suffer from hay fever or asthma potentially lessening their exposure to such allergens. An Irish pollen network will be established operating in both urban and rural settings. With the countries two major urban centres of Dublin and Cork initially being targeted (greatest population densities) in tandem with a rural background site (Carlow and Sligo). This research will also investigate the interaction of manmade pollution and pollen to determine whether pollution is modifying the surface/chemical composition of pollen. Finally the collected data will be incorporated into the production of the first Irish pollen forecast/model in decades (Current forecasts estimated based on data from the UK).
Grant Approved
�96,000.00
Research Hub
Healthy Environment
Research Theme
Health and well being
Initial Projected Completion Date
31/08/2023