We caught up with Aisling McGrath, who has been awarded second place in the 2025 BSAS Undergraduate Thesis of the Year Award to find out more about her and her work. Her thesis stood out for its originality, technical depth, and potential impact on one of the greatest challenges facing global agriculture: methane emissions from livestock.

A background rooted in microbiology and sustainability

Aisling studied microbiology with a minor in agri-biosciences, inspired by a fascination with how microorganisms influence wider systems—from human health to the environment. She was particularly drawn to agriculture as a way of applying microbiology to global issues such as food security, sustainable farming, and climate change.

Investigating a novel mechanism in the rumen

Her thesis broke new ground by testing whether Direct Interspecies Electron Transfer (DIET)—a process previously studied in anaerobic digestion—also occurs in the rumen. By adding conductive materials such as granular activated carbon to rumen fluid incubations, Aisling explored whether microbes could directly transfer electrons, influencing methane production.

The results suggested DIET could indeed play a role in the rumen microbiome. Importantly, Aisling isolated electroactive species, including Klebsiella pneumoniae and Streptococcus, highlighting an exciting new angle on how methane is produced in livestock.

Overcoming challenges in the lab

Working under strict anaerobic conditions presented significant challenges, requiring meticulous care and persistence. Some experiments produced unexpected results, but rather than setbacks, these became valuable findings—showing how microbial behaviour can vary depending on context. Aisling credits her supervisors, Dr Sinead Waters and Dr Simon Mills, along with her lab partner, for helping her troubleshoot and stay motivated throughout the project.

Impact on animal science and beyond

This thesis represents the first evidence that electroactive microbes could be involved in methane production in the rumen, opening new possibilities for methane mitigation strategies. Beyond reducing emissions, Aisling’s work also points to the potential of redirecting microbial processes towards renewable energy applications, such as microbial fuel cells—demonstrating how microbiology can contribute to a more sustainable bioeconomy.

Recognition and future ambitions

Reflecting on her success, Aisling says:

“To have my work recognised alongside the best undergraduate research in the country is an honour. It validates the persistence I put into the project and shows that microbiology has real value in tackling global challenges.”

Currently working as a quality technician at Abbott Diabetes Care, Aisling is gaining industry experience in quality systems and regulatory standards. She remains open to returning to animal science research, particularly in projects that bridge microbiology, sustainability, and innovation.

Encouraging the next generation

Aisling believes awards like this are vital to encouraging innovation at an early stage:

“These awards give undergraduates the chance to showcase work that matters beyond the classroom. They help build confidence, highlight creativity, and show how student research can make a real impact.”

 

Congratulations to Aisling on this achievement. Her work is a shining example of how undergraduate research can uncover new perspectives and contribute to solving the pressing sustainability challenges of our time.