Limerick Teenager Claims Victory at BT Young Scientists 2024 with Innovative AI Project

A 17-year-old Limerick student, Seán O’Sullivan, has been awarded the prestigious title at the BT Young Scientists 2024 for his outstanding project on AI verification titled VerifyMe: A new approach to authorship attribution in the post-ChatGPT era. The student from Coláiste Chiaráin, who is currently in fifth year, impressed the judges with his project's innovative solutions addressing emerging issues in the field of Artificial Intelligence.

Leonard Hobbs from the Technology Group Judging Panel commended Seán on his programming prowess and for devisively tackling a very recent problem. The teen’s project not only earned him the recognition of his peers, but also a cash prize of €7,500 and the opportunity to represent Ireland at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists scheduled to take place in Katowice, Poland.

During the award ceremony, Education Minister Norma Foley praised Seán’s dedication and the support offered by his family and educators, stating his victory as emblematic of his commitment. She also took the opportunity to affirm her advocacy for the inclusion of STEM subjects in educational curricula.

Runner-up awards were also distributed during the ceremony. Philippa McIntosh, a 16-year-old student, received the Individual Runner-Up prize for her research on the challenges faced by dyslexic students in Junior Cycle maths. The Best Group award was captured by Abigail O’Brien Murray, Erica O’Brien Murray, and Olivia O’Shea, for their project aimed at preserving the common ash tree.

The competition is supported by BT Ireland, whose Managing Director, Shay Walsh, awarded the prize and expressed admiration for the innovative spirit displayed by young Irish scientists. He highlighted the importance of nurturing creativity and resolving real-world issues through science and technology.

AI, verification, Innovation