University of Limerick awards Stryker scholarship to four

University of Limerick has awarded this year's Stryker Engineering Scholarship to four students, marking more than 50 years of the programme between the university and Stryker.

This year's recipients are Orlaith Buckley, Lenka Ondrovicova and Erin McCauley, who study BSc Product Design & Technology, and Conor Murphy, who studies BSc Technology Management. They were recognised at the university's annual benefactor scholarship and bursary awards.

Established in 1975, the scholarship supports students in engineering, technology management and product design. More than 70 students have received the award since its launch.

Each recipient receives EUR €2,500 over one year, along with mentoring and co-operative education opportunities with Stryker.

Students have taken up placements at Stryker's Limerick site and elsewhere in the company's network, including the United States, Germany and Cork. The scheme is administered by the UL Foundation, which supports fundraising and development for the university.

The scholarship is one of the university's longest-running industry-linked awards and has remained focused on engineering-related disciplines for decades.

Kevin O'Keeffe, Site Lead at Stryker Limerick, said the programme is a longstanding part of the company's relationship with the university.

"The Stryker Engineering Scholarship is built on a proud legacy and has evolved over more than five decades into a meaningful and impactful partnership with University of Limerick. Over that time, the programme has reflected Stryker's long-standing commitment to nurturing talent and developing the next generation of innovators.

"For us, this scholarship is about much more than financial support. It is about creating opportunities for students to gain real-world experience, learn from industry, and build the skills and confidence they need to succeed in their careers. We are incredibly proud of the partnership we have with UL and of the many students who have played a part in Stryker's mission to make healthcare better," he said.

Long partnership

Sarah Hartnett, Director of Development at UL Foundation, said the programme demonstrates the value of sustained links between employers and universities.

"The Stryker Engineering Scholarship is a standout example of the impact that long-term collaboration between industry and higher education can have. Each year, we see first-hand how this support helps students to excel, not only academically but also in their professional development. We are delighted to celebrate the achievements of the 2025 recipients and the lasting impact this scholarship continues to have on our students, our university, and the broader engineering and technology community," she said.

The four current scholars are studying subjects closely linked to product development and engineering management.

One of the recipients, Orlaith Buckley, said the mentoring element had been especially important.

"Receiving the Stryker Engineering Scholarship has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The financial support has been hugely beneficial, but what has made the biggest difference is the opportunity to engage with Stryker mentors. It has given me real insight into the MedTech industry and helped shape my career ambitions. Being recognised as part of a programme with such a long history with UL and strong reputation makes it even more special," she said.