Jocelyn Bell Burnell Building
The Jocelyn Bell Burnell Science Building at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) is a state-of-the-art centre for teaching and research in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Named after renowned astrophysicist Professor Jocelyn Bell Burnell, the building reflects her legacy of scientific discovery and commitment to inclusion in education.
Equipped with cutting-edge laboratories, research facilities, and collaborative learning spaces, the building supports a wide range of STEM programmes. It fosters innovation, critical thinking, and hands-on learning—empowering the next generation of scientists and engineers.
Facilities
Pharmaceutical Labs
These labs focus on pharmaceutical development, drug formulation, and chemical analysis. Equipped with advanced analytical instruments which prepare students for careers in pharma, healthcare, and research.
Chemistry Laboratories
Our state-of-the-art Chemistry Labs provide a safe, well-equipped environment for practical chemistry education and research. Students gain hands-on experience in chemical analysis, synthesis, and experimental techniques using modern instrumentation.
Food Technology & Agri-Food Laboratories
Our Agri-Food Labs are purpose-built for food science and technology studies, including nutrition analysis, food safety, and product development. They support innovation and research in the growing agri-food sector, with a focus on sustainability and quality.
Multipurpose Research Labs
The Jocelyn Bell Burnell Building features advanced Multipurpose Research Labs designed to support a wide range of scientific investigations. These flexible spaces accommodate interdisciplinary projects in biotechnology, life sciences, and environmental research.
Cell Culture Facility
A brand-new, innovative space designed for mammalian and other animal cell line culture—providing undergrad to PhD students with hands-on biotech training in biotherapeutic production and industry equipment familiar to biotech employers.
Jocelyn Bell Burnell Building History
The building is named after Professor Jocelyn Bell Burnell, an astrophysicist from nearby Lurgan, Co. Armagh, famous for co-discovering radio pulsars in 1967 — one of the most important astronomical discoveries of the 20th century.
Despite playing a central role in the discovery, the 1974 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to her male collaborators, not her — a widely cited example of gender bias in science.
Over time, Bell Burnell has become a powerful advocate for women and underrepresented groups in STEM fields.
Naming the building in her honor serves both to celebrate local scientific heritage and to promote equality and diversity in science education.
