I hold a MSc in Ecology from the University of Bangor (Wales, 2006-2007) and a PhD in Zoology from the University of Galway (2008 -2011) under the supervision of Prof Wallace Arthur. My doctoral thesis investigated the evolution, development and morphology venom systems in centipedes. I also hold a Postgraduate Certification in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (2015).

I have always been fascinated by predatory and defensive behaviours in a range of organisms. Since my PhD, I have published over 30 peer-reviewed studies on a range of related topics.

I am in charge of the internationalisation strategy of the School of Natural Sciences since 2024. I am also heavily involved in science outreach, both nationally (I deliver ecology-based workshops to school pupils since 2013) and internationally (click here to watch my TED talk on spider venom).

Here are some of the awards I have received over the years:

2021 National Teaching Hero Award

2020 University of Galway President’s Award for Teaching Excellence (Individual Award)

2020 University of Galway President’s Award for Teaching Excellence (Team Award)

2017 Ryan Innovation in Research Award

2015 National Teaching Expert Award

2015 University of Galway President’s Award for Teaching Excellence

I am a zoologist specialist of the evolution and development of venom systems, predation strategies and prey detection in venomous invertebrates. I am currently investigating a range of related topics, including the morphology and development of arthropod venom systems, the medical importance and ecology of scorpions, the antimicrobial properties of venom, and the ecology of the invasive Noble false widow spider. Check my research output for more details.

I have been teaching at the University of Galway since 2015. I tend to favour a hands-on / field-based approach to learning, using preserved and live animals to learn about their morphology, physiology, evolution, ecology and behaviour.

I contribute to the following modules, as part of the GY301 Bachelor of Science degree programme:

ZO208 Invertebrate Biology

ZO209 Vertebrate Biology

ZO1101/ZO2101 Entomology

ZO415/509 Biometry / Statistics

ZO416 Integrative Zoology

ZO419 Practical Skills in Zoology

ZO4101 Research Project in Zoology

ZO4103 Animals in Captivity

ZO425 Literature Review