Dr Michael Byrne

UCD ALUMNI AWARD IN SCIENCE

A physicist who used theoretical knowledge from his degree to invent a new technology which he has turned into a global business.  Dr Michael Byrne graduated with a BSc in Physics and went on to complete a PhD in Atmospheric and Aerosol Physics in 1976.

From his involvement in the development of the basic ionisation smoke alarm, in 1988 he and his colleagues were part of a management buyout, following which Ei Electronics was established in Shannon which employs over 700 people. It is the leader in residential fire products, and the originator of innovative products including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide sensors, unique electronic circuits, RF technology and sounders. It holds over 25 patents in these technologies.