Hugh Boyle is a Marine Biologist with a bachelor’s degree in Zoology from NUI Galway and a Master’s degree in Applied Marine Conservation from Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology.
Hugh conducted research on blue mussel genetics in an aquaculture setting, with the assistance of Bord Iascaigh Mhara. During this research, Hugh first became interested in aquaculture in Ireland. This led to Hugh working on blue mussel projects as a research assistant with GMIT after completing his Master’s degree. Through his work and studies, Hugh has developed a broad knowledge of marine biology and aquaculture which he shares with students as Project Facilitator on board the ARC.
Bláthnaid Doyle is a Marine Science graduate from the University of Galway and currently works as a Project Facilitator with the Aquaculture Remote Classroom (ARC), where she delivers engaging and informative lessons on aquaculture and marine sustainability to schools across Ireland.
After completing her degree, Bláthnaid worked as a research assistant on EU-funded marine biodiscovery projects, where she was involved in scientific diving, fieldwork, and the collection of marine samples. She has gained hands-on experience in habitat mapping, ecological surveys, and marine mammal observation, including time spent sailing and supporting at-sea monitoring efforts.
Her role in science communication has been shaped through diverse roles in lab demonstrating, ecotourism, and public outreach. In addition, she holds certifications in diving and powerboating. Bláthnaid uses her experience to make marine science and aquaculture accessible and exciting for students on board the ARC.
Grace Lynch is a Marine scientist who graduated from the University of Galway and a Project Facilitator with the Aquaculture Remote Classroom (ARC). From a young age she wanted to work with the sea, which led her to one of her first ever jobs as an oyster farmer. Grace has first-hand experience working on Oyster farms, where she is from in County Kerry. Her enthusiasm for aquaculture grew from this, especially aquaculture at a local level as she saw how it was a pillar in her community, from serving seafood to harvesting it! Her love of the sea and an interest in teaching lead her to getting qualified as a PADI diver and involved in swim teaching.
A combination of teaching kids in the water, love of aquaculture and marine science brought Grace to where she is now on the ARC. Grace is delighted to share her knowledge of Irish Aquaculture and love of the sea through interesting and engaging lessons on board the ARC.
All team members are Garda vetted and have completed training in First Aid response and Child Protection.
