Henry Curran: Making Science Accessible to All

"Always ask why," advises Irish scientist Henry Curran. It's the advice he gives to young people who want to become scientists. And it's the same curiosity that has guided his own career, from developing the chemical mechanisms that help measure fuel performance, to working with Chinese researchers on low-carbon solutions for the future.

Curran directs the Combustion Chemistry Center at the University of Galway in Ireland and is an honorary professor at Northwestern Polytechnical University in China. Recently, he gave Science and Technology Daily insights into his research and cooperation with Chinese colleagues.

Promoting energy efficiency

Curran became increasingly interested in chemistry as he progressed along his academic journey. One of his most significant contributions to the field is the development of mechanisms for the primary reference fuels, heptane and isooctane. These fuels are essential to the gasoline and diesel industries, as they serve as benchmarks for determining their octane ratings. The octane rating indicates how well a fuel can resist engine knocking or detonation, a process that can damage the engine.

His work on these mechanisms has helped the combustion academic community simulate primary reference fuels, understand the chemistry of gasoline and diesel fuel oxidation, and predict emissions. This contributes to reducing particulate emissions and eventually improving air quality. According to a 2025 research summary from the University of Galway, Curran's team has developed a new set of compact chemical reaction models that can accurately simulate the combustion behavior of low-carbon fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia, an area he is interested in developing.

Additionally, research is being done on capturing carbon dioxide emissions and using them in combination with hydrogen to produce fuels, creating a sustainable cycle of energy generation.

Curran sees combustion research as having an important role in the field of advancing space exploration. Detonation engines are being developed, which rely on a better understanding of combustion chemistry to improve their performance. By better controlling combustion, more powerful and efficient engines can be generated that can be used in space exploration.

Unlocking the secrets of science

Despite the importance of his research, Curran recognizes the significance of making science more accessible to the general public. He believes science outreach programs are crucial, especially for young people. He attaches great importance to the power of "peer influence," adding that younger students should be engaged with and taught by both undergraduate and graduate students, who can act as role models and inspire them to pursue careers in science. Furthermore, Curran emphasizes the importance of female professors and role models for young girls, encouraging them to see that science is a field for everyone.

Curran notes that there are effective ways to engage and inspire the public's interest in science. He cites the example of Space Day of China, an activity to popularize science, where children's paintings of space and astronauts are displayed outside lecture halls. According to him, the paintings inspired and engaged the public, particularly young people, showing that science can be vivid and inspiring.

Curran encourages scientists to continue to engage with the public in similar ways, highlighting the importance of making science accessible and relatable to everyone. For young people who aspire to become scientists, he said a thirst for knowledge is a key attribute for scientists and noted that young people could unlock the secrets of the universe and make a positive impact on society by constantly asking questions and seeking answers.

An 'energetic' and 'forward-looking' country

In terms of international collaboration, Curran recalled some wonderful times working with scientists and students from China in his Irish lab. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among scientists worldwide to advance knowledge and improve the world.

This Irish scholar is intrigued by China's advancements in science and technology, mentioning that this country left an impression of being "energetic" and "forward-looking." He applauded China's impressive progress in combustion and flame research, noting an increase in the quality of research papers from Chinese scientists.

In early 2026, Curran received the Chinese Government Friendship Award, an honor that followed his earlier International Cooperation Award from the Chinese Society of Engineering Thermophysics.

When talking about how to promote effective and efficient international cooperation, Curran called for more exchange programs and resources to support joint study. While some challenges still exist, increasing support is being given to foster international cooperation, and cross-border collaboration in terms of sharing knowledge is critical to finding solutions to these complex challenges, he said.

Source: Science and Technology Daily