About Barry Fitzgerald

My Story

Dr. Barry W. Fitzgerald is a speaker, author, superhero scientist, and enthusiastic communicator. He is a super-fan of the superhero genre.

From Ireland to the Netherlands

After completing a degree in Applied Physics and a PhD in Computational Physics at the University of Limerick (Ireland), Barry moved to the Netherlands to continue his career in scientific research. And it is in the Netherlands where his adventures in scientific communication began. 

Barry established BW Science in 2014 and gave his first scientific workshops in 2015. During 2015, he wrote his first book – Secrets of Superhero Science. He then self-published the book through BW Science in February 2016. Barry is the author of two other popular science books – Secret Science of Santa Claus (2016), and How to Build an Iron Man Suit (2019).

Talks and more

Barry has given talks at companies such as GECAS, DEMCON and Nedap Healthcare, schools, universities, and events such as Dutch Comic Con, La Futura Shanghai 2018, the Galway International Arts Festival, and as part of Science Week in Ireland. In June 2019, Barry spoke at TEDxBerlin where he presented on “Being a Responsible Superhero”, and in February 2020, he addressed the question “Are superhero gadgets our future lifesavers” for the Universiteit van Nederland.

Editor-in-chief, YouTuber, Podcast host, and Researcher

Barry is the editor-in-chief of the Open Access journal Superhero Science and Technology. He also has a YouTube channel – The Superhero Scientist, where he posts videos in relation to science, engineering, mathematics, robotics, superheroes, and lots more besides. 

In addition, Barry is the host of a new podcast series – Secrets of Superhero Science, which is named after his first book.  

As a scientific researcher, Barry’s scientific interests include computational physics, responsible innovation, science education, and superhero science. 

Check out Barry’s publications on Researchgate

Secret Superpower

Barry has seen the 2012 film The Avengers nearly 80 times and his superpower will always remain a closely guarded secret.

Photo: Bart van Overbeeke

Feedback & Reviews

Barry has an enthusiasm that brings science to life with just the right balance of education and fun, and his communications skills are exemplary.

Jackie Gorman
CEO Midlands Science (Ireland)

Barry has an amazing ability to capture the imaginations of students through his enthusiastic and engaging talks on superheroes and science!

Secondary School Teacher
St Brigid's College, Loughrea

As a keynote speaker, Barry Fitzgerald was our superhero at the LaFutura 2018 global event in Shanghai.

Nils Müller
CEO TRENDONE, Germany

Barry is a super-inspring and enthusiastic speaker, which is quite likely his superpower.

Bernie Quilligan
University of Limerick, Ireland

Barry really knows how to engage an audience. He will leave the room convinced that together science, research, and superheroes are serious fun.

Agaath Diemel
TU Delft, the Netherlands

When working with Barry, you are assured of a professional service. He can deliver talks both online and in-person, and his talks are engaging and inspiring!

Patricia O’Sullivan
Enterprise & Community Engagement Manager, Mary Immaculate College

Barry’s talks on superhero science are hugely entertaining and inspiring. His enthusiasm is there for all to see!

Jelke te Loeke
Advisor in Marketing/ Communication, Nedap Healthcare

Barry’s presentation and communication skills, along with his engaging topics, made for fun, interactive and energy-packed talks.

Trina Coyne
Kildare Libraries

Barry Fitzgerald injected so much energy and excitement into our science week at BSL.

Teacher at
The British School of Lisbon (BSL)