South East Technological University (SETU) researcher Dr Manasa Hegde has been selected as one of 21 new members of Young Academy Ireland (YAI), a prestigious interdisciplinary body representing emerging research leaders across Ireland.
Young Academy Ireland (YAI) brings together early-career researchers and innovators from a wide range of disciplines who work collaboratively to contribute to societal, cultural and economic development. The academy forms part of a growing global network of Young Academies, fostering international knowledge exchange and research collaboration.
Dr Hegde, a Post Doctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering (engCORE) based on SETU’s Carlow campus, becomes one of the newest voices contributing to this national and international research community. Her selection reflects both her academic achievements and her active engagement within the engineering research environment at SETU.
Dr Hegde completed her PhD in Materials Engineering in 2023. Her doctoral research focused on the effectiveness of organically modified silica-based hybrid sol-gel coatings for protecting materials in marine environments, specifically addressing corrosion, cavitation erosion and fouling challenges. Prior to undertaking her PhD, Dr Hegde gained broad research experience across multiple domains.
Her work included the development of bioplastics using medium-chain-length polyhydroxyalkanoates (mcl-PHAs), the design of sensors for cardiac applications involving functionalised platinum nanoparticles, and the biosynthesis of carbon nanospheres derived from natural bark materials for antimicrobial and antioxidant applications.
Her current research centres on the development of advanced sol-gel coatings for metals and composite materials. These coatings are designed to enhance material durability by mitigating erosion, corrosion and fouling in demanding operational environments. Through this work, Dr Hegde aims to improve the longevity, performance and sustainability of engineering materials exposed to harsh conditions.
Dr Yvonne Kavanagh, Director of Engineering Research & Innovation, SETU congratulated Dr Hegde on her achievement, saying "I am very proud of our YAI appointee. Her dedication, creativity, scientific rigour, hard work and curiosity is testament to her excellence and brings real energy to our research community. As Director of Engineering Research & Innovation, I have the privilege of supporting exceptional emerging talent and therefore it’s wonderful to see Manasa’s excellence honoured".
Dr Hegde welcomed the opportunity to join the academy.
“Being selected for the YAI is a significant milestone in my career. I am very grateful for the support I have received from SETU and look forward to making impactful contributions to engineering, materials science and EDI areas”, she said.
Manasa's research supervisor, Dr Edmond Tobin, SETU engCORE also expressed his congratulations, saying "It's a great achievement for Manasa and a great accolade for her in recognition of her work. It will open many opportunities for Manasa to contribute her knowledge and experience to and allow collaboration with other outstanding individuals. I'm sure it will support her to reach new heights in her career."
Dr Hegde’s selection marks an important milestone both for her career and for SETU’s growing research profile, particularly within engineering and materials science.