Athlone man on UN scientific panel to study effects of nuclear war

An Athlone man is one of 21 scientists from around the world appointed to a United Nations Scientific Panel to study and report on the effects of a nuclear war

Dr. Neil Rowan of the Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest is the only Irish representative on the newly-established United Nations Scientific Panel on the Effects of Nuclear War.

The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Simon Harris, welcomed the appointment. Ireland, with New Zealand, led the resolution to establish the panel at the UN General Assembly in 2024.

Recognised by the prestigious Stanford University list of World Top 2% of Scientists in 2023, Dr. Rowan has over three decades’ experience in advancing the field of applied microbiology to address complex challenges for society across medtech, food and the environment.

The Tánaiste said: “I am delighted that, once again, Irish people are front and centre of global efforts to achieve a world free from the threat of nuclear weapons. Recent events demonstrate the increasing level of nuclear risk the world faces. The work of Dr. Rowan and his fellow panellists will be an invaluable contribution to our evidence-based understanding of the catastrophic effects of a nuclear war.”

Speaking on his selection, Dr. Rowan said: “I am humbled to contribute to the assembled panel of internationally-leading scientists where we will advise on the effects of nuclear war for the United Nations. These duties are quite profound given that we will investigate the physical and societal consequences of nuclear war on a local, regional, and global scale encompassing examining climatic, environmental, radiological, public health, and socioeconomic impacts. Additionally, it reflects a unified global commitment to garner and share key knowledge on what is a critical topic for humanity.”

The 21-member panel, which will focus on the physical and societal consequences of nuclear war, has been established following the UN General Assembly’s adoption of a resolution proposed by Ireland and New Zealand in 2024. It is the first such UN-mandated work since the 1980s. The panel will work until 2027 when it will publish a comprehensive, and fully accessible, report based on the latest science.

Dr. Rowan is originally from Westlodge, Athlone and studied at the University of Galway.