Irish Whiskey Association sponsors scholarship for distilling science course
The course now in its second year of running is due to begin on the 2 March (Photo by Katerina Holmes via Pexels)
The Irish Whiskey Association has announced that it is sponsoring a scholarship place on the next intake of Maynooth University’s Brewing & Distilling Science course.
The aim of the course is to promote consistent product excellence across the Irish whiskey industry by covering the technical aspects of distilling, with lectures being delivered by industry professionals.
The course is now in its second year, with the application closing date coming up on Monday, 19 February, and the course set to start on Saturday, 2 March.
Learners on the blended course will be required to attend 10 weeks of one-hour live online lectures and a three-day hands-on laboratory experience. A career development lecture will be led by the Irish section of the prestigious Institute of Brewing & Distilling. In addition to distillation, topics covered by the course include techniques for yeast analysis; the environment and sustainability; and fermentation analysis.
The course is open to applicants who hold a level 8 honour’s degree in a science discipline with a minimum 2.2 grade, and experienced industry professionals who do not hold a primary or higher degree are also welcome to apply.
Eoin Ó Catháin, director, Irish Whiskey Association, said: “Building an advanced education and skills base in Ireland is critical for ensuring that Irish Whiskey retains a competitive edge globally. We’re delighted to see the ties between the Department of Chemistry at Maynooth University and Ireland’s distillers continue to go from strength to strength. They understand the skills needed in the industry, and this course is expertly designed to share the expertise required to ensure the consistent excellent quality of Irish Whiskey products.”
Denise Rooney, professor from the chemistry department, Maynooth University, said: “The course was created in response to the strong demand for an analytical course to support the growing Irish craft brewing and traditional whiskey industries. Comprising of online lectures, tutorials and virtual lab simulations, this micro-credential course will be run over a 12-week period including a practical experience in Maynooth University’s modern labs. This course is ideal for new entrants into the distilling industry or those wishing to gain more in-depth knowledge in the area.”
For more information, please visit: www.irishwhiskeyassociation.ie.
