I joined the School of Maths in January 2021 as a lecturer in Applied Mathematics. Previously I was a lecturer in the Department of Maths and Stats at the University of Limerick. My background is in Applied Maths, I got myBSc and MSc in Mathematics for Engineeringfrom the Politecnico di Torino. In 2015 I got my PhD in solid mechanics from the DAlembert Institute at the UPMC-Paris 6 with a PhD thesis on modelling morphogenesis in living tissues.

My main research interests lie in the mechanics of soft materials, with a particular focus on the constitutive modelling of soft biological tissues. I develop nonlinear elastic and viscoelastic models that capture large deformations, time-dependent behaviour, and the influence of underlying microstructure (e.g. fibre reinforcement and heterogeneity). I am particularly interested in the onset and evolution of instabilities in soft materials, such as pattern formation and wrinkling. I am also interested in developing robust experimental protocols suitable for soft tissues to reliably characterise their complex mechanical response. An additional strand of my research focusses on auxetic behaviour in engineered materials and its potential applications.

My teaching interests span a broad range of topics in applied mathematics, with a particular emphasis on mathematical methods and mechanics. At the University of Galway, I currently teach several modules, including Mathematical Methods for Financial Mathematics (MP191), Mathematical Methods for Science students (MP345), Mathematical Methods for Engineering students (MA2101), and Advanced Mechanics (MP237). Previously, at the University of Limerick, I taught Advanced Mathematical Methods for a Master’s programme in Mathematical Modelling, as well as first-year undergraduate Linear Algebra.

I continuously seek to develop my teaching through new techniques and approaches, with a strong focus on enhancing the student learning experience. I am particularly interested in guiding students throughout their learning journey, helping them build confidence and independence in engaging with mathematical concepts and developing their problem-solving skills.