Leading transport researchers are expected to attend the Irish Transport Research Network (ITRN) annual conference at NUI Galway, which takes places from August 27-28. As the N6 project, harbour extension and traffic layouts dominate local headlines, this conference aims to shed light on the major national and international transport challenges and the latest developments in transport technology and policy.

The highlight of the conference will be a panel discussion on the conference theme ‘Green shoots v green transport: are economic growth and sustainable transport compatible?’. This talk is open to the public and will take place at 6pm on Thursday, 27 August, in the Engineering Building, NUI Galway.

“The annual ITRN conference brings together academics, students and practitioners to discuss the latest developments in transport research. We are delighted to host the conference at NUI Galway this year and to be joined by two international experts, Dr Georgina Santos from Cardiff University and Dr Robin Hickman from University College London, for keynote speeches,” said NUI Galway’s Dr Amaya Vega, who is co-organiser of this year’s conference.

The two-day event is being co-organised by researchers from civil engineering, economics and sociology, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of transport. Galway city is a good example of an urban area trying to balance demands for economic activity and new infrastructure with needs for sustainability and a liveable community.

The conference sponsors include ITS Ireland, IMDO Ireland, and NUI Galway’s Ryan Institute and the Whitaker Institute.

The ITRN conference qualifies as an Engineers Ireland Career Professional Development (CPD) event. For further information visit www.itrn.ie or follow the conference on Twitter @itrn_conference (#itrnconference2015).