The Irish Brain Bee is a national neuroscience competition hosted by the Galway Neuroscience Centre and supported by the International Brain Bee network. It introduces high-school students to neuroscience through questions based on a designated textbook.
The 2026 edition was held virtually on 9 March with 17 participants, largely Transition Year students from six Irish schools. Its winner earned the right to represent Ireland at the International Brain Bee World Championship later in 2026.
Benefits & funding
- The national winner advances as Ireland’s representative to the International Brain Bee World Championship.
- The official Irish pages do not publish a national cash prize, travel support, or participation fee.
Eligibility
- The competition is for high-school students; the 2026 Irish group consisted largely of Transition Year students.
- The official Irish pages do not state an age, nationality, residency, or experience requirement for the next cycle.
- Competitors seeking the world-championship route must win the highest Brain Bee level in Ireland.
Can you apply?
Here's who can apply
Decoded from the official rules. A free account checks them against your passport, degree and age in seconds.
Education required
High School
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Application process
- 1Check the University of Galway’s Irish Brain Bee page for the next cycle notice and registration instructions.
- 2Follow the route published by the Irish Brain Bee Team; no public 2027 application form appears on the official pages reviewed.
Program timeline
Participants began studying the designated neuroscience textbook.
January 2026
The Irish Brain Bee Competition took place virtually.
Mar 9, 2026
The winner was due to represent Ireland at the International Brain Bee World Championship.
Later in 2026