Howard Ayo

Howard Ayo

PhD in Law - Class of 2023

‘National Action Plans on Business and Human Rights: Implications for Human Rights in Sub-Saharan Africa. Comparative Research of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda’

Supervisors

  • Professor Rory O'Connell
  • Dr Anne Smith
  • Dr Charles O'Sullivan

As a business and human rights expert with over 16 years of dedicated engagement in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, I have collaborated extensively with the United Nations Human Rights and International Rescue Committee, contributing significantly to positive outcomes for marginalized individuals. My specialization lies in promoting norms-consistent behaviors, particularly among states, civil society, corporations and non-state actors. My recent research at Ulster University involved a detailed examination of national action plans for business and human rights, resulting in the development of a precise planning framework tailored for Sub-Saharan Africa. I am sincerely grateful to my research supervisors Professor Rory O’Connell, Dr Anne Smith, and Dr Charles O'Sullivan for their guidance and support throughout this transformative journey. Their mentorship has enhanced my capabilities and deepened my commitment to advancing human rights in the region.

In September 2018, I embarked on a research journey at Ulster University, exploring national action plans for business and human rights in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Initially uncertain about the purpose, as none of these African countries had such policies, I found myself missing my job with the United Nations after just a month. The thought of quitting and returning to my secure job crossed my mind. To cut the story short, I am now a proud PhD holder with the first-of-its-kind framework for business and human rights national action plans in Sub-Saharan Africa. Ulster University and my supervisors played a crucial role in this achievement. This narrative is making waves in Africa and beyond. A heartfelt thank you to Ulster University and my supervisors for the opportunity to share this remarkable story.

Mark McFeeters

Mark McFeeters

PhD in Social Work and Social Policy - Class of 2023

‘Sacred Space: An exploration into the Distinctiveness of Faith-based Youth Work from a Christian Perspective in Northern Ireland’

Supervisors

  • Dr Mark Hammond
  • Dr Jennifer Hamilton
  • Dr Campbell Killick

‘I am Mark McFeeters, Lecturer in Community Youth Work at UU, Belfast. I am a youth worker by trade and have been conducting my research around faith-based youth work. My thesis sought to explore the Distinctiveness of Faith-based Youth Work from a Christian Perspective in Northern Ireland.

If I could speak to myself at the start of my PhD, the best piece of advice I would give myself would be to just keep putting one foot in front of the other, slowly and consistently... and not to give up.’

Abdullah

Abdullah

PhD in Engineering - Class of 2023

‘Sensors for detection of faecal contamination in water’

Supervisors

  • Professor James McLaughlin
  • Professor Mickey Keenan
  • Professor Dewar Finlay

During my PhD, my supervisor and colleagues were a huge help. My proudest moment was passing the viva. I'm so grateful to my family, friends, and teachers for their support. Even though COVID-19 made things tough, with the help of the university and my supervisor, we pulled through.  A big thank you to everyone!

Emily Hesse (posthumous award)

Emily Hesse (posthumous award)

PhD in Art and Design - Class of 2023

‘Designing the Anthropocene: Ceramics as an archaeology of the contemporary past’

Supervisors

  • Dr Christopher McHugh
  • Dr Cherie Driver

Emily Hesse was born in Middlesbrough in 1980. Her roots in North Yorkshire, together with her commitment to community and place, shaped her practice as an artist and academic. While earlier work explored Middlesbrough’s post-industrial heritage, her doctoral project at Ulster University was deeply embedded in the bleak and beautiful landscape of the North York Moors. Although Emily worked in a range of media, an engagement with clay was essential to her endeavours. For her, clay was not merely a malleable and passive substance through which the traces of human presence might be indexically recorded. Rather, it was a collaborative agent with generative and transformative potential. To better understand our relationship with clay was to come closer to dealing with the pressing issues of our time, be they related to the environmental concerns of the Anthropocene, or the socially engaged task of building alternative, fairer, worlds.

Working with Emily was a pleasure and a privilege. Supervisory meetings were always provocative and energising. As supervisors, we learned much from her – about her approach to research and creative practice, but also about her care for the world and her humility and resilience in the face of adversity.

Although Emily never got to complete her thesis, her work on clay as both Earth matter and cultural artefact constitutes a profound and original contribution to knowledge. These insights were embodied in Emily Hesse: The Witches’ Institution (W.I.), her Jerwood Commissions exhibition at The Tetley, Leeds, in 2022, co-devised with Professor Andrea Phillips. Accompanied by a beautiful book, Matters of Being, the exhibition featured a monumental installation of several tonnes of local clay. Visitors were encouraged to step barefoot onto these alluvial deposits, in a form of embodied communion. W.I. invited us to imagine an alternative cosmology of the future – a prospective archaeology perhaps – where clay, or ‘CLAEG’, was central to the articulation of human and matter. This earth-born wisdom forms part of a rich assemblage and legacy which will have lasting impact beyond the field of ceramics.

We are proud and delighted that Emily’s achievements are to be recognised and celebrated in this well- deserved posthumous award.

Bodhayan Prasad

Bodhayan Prasad

PhD in Medicine - Class of 2023

‘Development of machine learning based computational tools for stratified healthcare and personalised medicine’

Supervisors

  • Dr Priyank Shukla
  • Prof Anthony Bjourson

I couldn’t have got through this without my wife, Dr Nidhi Nath. She supported me throughout my research journey. Her advice always proved to be the most valuable. Whenever I felt demotivated, she was the one who invariably encouraged me as well as scolded me, when needed!

Jonathan Etumusei

Jonathan Etumusei

PhD in Computing - Class of 2023

‘Change point detection in time series using Martingales’

Supervisors

  • Dr Jorge Martinez Carracedo
  • Professor Sally McClean

Jonathan Etumusei is a highly skilled data scientist specializing in statistics and software development. He holds a Master's degree in software development from the University of Ulster, where he conducted extensive research for his thesis. With a strong background in mathematics and statistics, Jonathan's expertise lies in mathematical and statistical modelling, optimisation, and machine learning.

His passion for data science drives him and possesses a deep commitment to leveraging his skills to create a positive impact on the world. He received guidance and supervision from esteemed professionals such as Dr. Jorge Martinez Carracedo and Prof. Sally McClean during his research.

I am proud of my ability to publish my research in two reputable journals and present four conference papers. It is a significant accomplishment for me and a testament to the quality and impact of my work. This achievement not only demonstrates my expertise in the field but also signifies my dedication and perseverance throughout the research process. I consider it a privilege to contribute to the scientific community through these publications and presentations.

Louise Hanna

Louise Hanna

PhD in Education - Class of 2023

‘CALLing Student Teachers: A Mixed Methods Study of Modern Language (ML) Student Teachers and their Perceptions of Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) in Initial Teacher Education (ITE)’

Supervisors

  • Professor David Barr
  • Dr Shauna McGill
  • Dr Claire Woods

In a world where technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, it's only natural to consider how it can revolutionize the realm of education. My research delved deep into the perceptions of Modern Language (ML) student teachers towards CALL, examining how these perceptions evolved throughout their Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programs in 2020/21.
Covering seven institutions across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, my study revealed fascinating insights. At the commencement of their ITE journey, student teachers displayed a positive outlook towards CALL. However, as they neared the completion of their programs, their enthusiasm waned. The shift in perception was accompanied by a transition from relying on university education to embracing self-directed learning as the primary means of acquiring CALL knowledge.

Uncovering a total of thirty influential factors, I discovered that workload emerged as a significant concern during follow-up focus groups. Furthermore, the CALL behaviours of student teachers diverged from their initial expectations, revealing the dynamic nature of their experiences. It is important to note, however, that these findings were not uniform across all student teachers, showcasing the rich diversity within the UK's jurisdictions.
Drawing upon the collective wisdom of student teachers, I am thrilled to present twelve recommendations aimed at enhancing CALL instruction in Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) courses. These recommendations, based on the voices and experiences of our peers, have the potential to shape the future of CALL adoption in our field.

In the course of my research, I had the privilege of developing an innovative theoretical framework that encapsulates the student teacher pathway to CALL adoption. Introducing the Student Teacher CALL Acceptance Model (STCAM), this framework has been meticulously designed, tested, and refined, offering a fresh perspective on our journey towards integrating technology in language learning.

Undertaking a PhD is no small feat. It's a testament to our dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to knowledge. The countless hours spent poring over research papers, designing experiments, and grappling with complex theories have all led us to this significant milestone. And in the midst of it all, my proudest moment was submitting my thesis, a culmination of years of hard work and intellectual growth.
It's not just the end result that fills me with pride, but the entire process itself. The challenges I encountered along the way, the moments of self-doubt, and the exhilarating breakthroughs that pushed the boundaries of my understanding – they have all shaped me into the researcher I am today.

Through the ups and downs of this journey, I've learned that resilience and tenacity are vital companions. There were moments when the weight of the work seemed overwhelming, but I found solace in the support of my incredible supervisors. Their guidance, wisdom, and unwavering belief in my abilities propelled me forward when doubt threatened to consume me.
Now, as we embark on the next phase of our lives, I would like to offer a few words of advice. Embrace curiosity. Never stop questioning, exploring, and seeking knowledge. Remember that learning is a lifelong journey, and the more we discover, the more there is to uncover.
Be fearless in the face of challenges. Every obstacle presents an opportunity for growth and learning. Embrace them as stepping stones to greatness, and never shy away from pushing the boundaries of your comfort zone.

Remember the power of collaboration. Seek out diverse perspectives, engage in meaningful discussions, and surround yourself with people who inspire you. Together, we can achieve remarkable feats that surpass what any one individual can accomplish alone.

Lastly, cherish the connections we've formed during our time here. I am incredibly proud to have walked alongside all of you on this remarkable path. Thank you for being a part of my journey, and may the future hold endless possibilities and fulfilment for each and every one of us.

Cecilia Gialdini

Cecilia Gialdini

PhD in Social Work and Social Policy - Class of 2023

‘A Multidimensional Index of Linguistic Justice’

Supervisors

  • Dr Michele Gazzola
  • Dr Gordon Marnoch
  • Dr Brian Carey

I was fortunate to receive a COFUND Marie Skłodowska-Curie PhD scholarship at Ulster University in Belfast. My project focuses on linguistic diversity and aims to explore fairer management strategies that foster inclusivity for both new and established minority groups.

My passion for language studies dates back to my Master's degree, during which I conducted fieldwork in Israel. The purpose of this research was to assess the perception of the "other" among bilingual Hebrew and Jewish students attending bilingual schools.

Prior to embarking on an academic career, I gained experience working in a social housing NGO and an asylum seekers' reception centre. I am immensely proud to have successfully completed my PhD (and on time!) despite the challenges posed by a global pandemic and my mental illness.

One valuable lesson I have learned throughout this journey is that resilience thrives within a supportive community. Surrounding oneself with caring and encouraging peers is essential, as their love and support can provide the motivation and strength to overcome any obstacles. I am so deeply grateful for the "bubble" that has stood beside me during this process, and I dedicate this achievement to them.

Jason Ferguson

Jason Ferguson

PhD in Architecture, Built Environment and Plannin - Class of 2023

‘Laboratory study of the tyre/grooved runway Marshall asphalt surface interface’

Supervisors

  • Dr David Woodward
  • Dr Phillip Millar

My name is Jason Ferguson, and I studied Civil Engineering as an undergraduate at Ulster University. During my final year studies, I undertook my final year dissertation / major project within the Highways Lab with Dr David Woodward and Dr Phillip Millar. My dissertation encouraged me to be curious and raised many questions about the durability of asphalt pavements. This curiosity led me to ask a question I could not find the answer to - so this led me to undertake a PhD at Ulster.

My research evolved from that initially set out, but my eventual focus and great interest fell upon runway surfaces. My research focused on Grooved Marshall Asphalt. For anyone who has never come across the term, Marshall Asphalt is dense asphalt material that is used as a surface course on Airport Runways – Yes, when you are looking out the window when you are jetting off it is very likely that the black surface you look at before you disappear into the sky is Marshall Asphalt.

The material dates back to World War two when its structural performance was recognised, and its use adopted as the standard airfield pavement to address poor structural performance exhibited by existing asphalt pavements at that time. The strength of the material was vital at this time – think about the amount of weight or the point loading of an aircraft’s weight distributed over a few small tyres!

Grooving was then introduced into the surface by sawing lateral grooves into the surface. Grooving improves tyre pavement interaction during wet weather conditions as it inhibits the flexibility of the tyre, sealing the path of escape of water, therefore, reducing the risk of hydro planning to a manageable level. When I say manageable level, I mean the risk of hydro planning is not eliminated but greatly reduced, and this will be dependent upon the amount of rainfall and the speed of the aircraft. Grooves, therefore, facilitate the bulk removal of water from the tyred interface.

My research looked and the interface between and tyre and a grooved surface. It investigated how grooved asphalt with various groove dimensions reacted to simulated trafficking. I was surprised to find that I could not find any initial research relating to why or what led to the eventual adoption of the current standard grooving dimensions! This led me to investigate a series of grooving dimensions and subject them up to 75,000 wheel passes. Simulated trafficking was carried out by the Road Testing Machine. This is an old machine but excellent machine that simulated a tyre passing over an asphalt surface to simulate wear of the surface. Simulated wear is very important as it provides insight as to how a material performs. Performance is important, particularly in regards to skid resistance. What I found was that certain groove dimensions provided really good skid resistance results but they broke down prematurely and therefore were not durable whereas other test specimens provided reasonable skid resistance but lasted up to 75,000 wheel passes.

My research highlighted the lack of understanding of the standard testing method and suggested improvements to the method. The research used novel and innovative methods to quantify interface contact between the tyre and asphalt when subjected to simulated wear. For example, I used a very simple but effective method of painting the asphalt surface with pink paint – Yes, pink paint! This method was very insightful as when the asphalt was subjected to simulated trafficking; it offered insight into what parts of the asphalt specimen and, more so, what parts of the aggregate where in contact with the tyre. This was shown by those areas where the pink paint had been removed or worn by the surface!

Finally, my search expanded to 13 chapters and was probably the most challenging/interesting but rewarding piece of work I have ever undertaken!

My most memorable experiences throughout my PhD Research is travelling the world! I was afforded and encouraged to travel! Throughout my research I visited USA - Washington DC, Italy - Naples and Pisa, France - Nantes, Greece - Thessaloniki, UK - London, Ireland - Dublin, China - Xi'an - Shanghai. My best advice to myself was to take advantage of every opportunity that you are given!

Shout out to my laboratory technician who was instrumental in my PhD research!

Oluwashina Ajayi

Oluwashina Ajayi

PhD in Computing - Class of 2023

‘Securing Self-Configuring Internet of Things (IoT) Ecosystems’

Supervisors

  • Dr Joseph Rafferty
  • Dr Jose Santos
  • Dr Matias Garcia-Constantino
  • Zhan Cui

Oluwashina J. Ajayi completed his PhD in Computer Science at the School of Computing, Ulster University, UK. He received his Bachelor of Technology degree in Computer Science from Ladoke Akintola University of Science and Technology, Ogbomosho, Oyo State, Nigeria in 2007.

He obtained his MSc degrees in Information Systems and Networking, and Digital Forensics from ICT University USA (Cameroon Campus), and Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Nigeria respectively, and an Executive MBA from Quantic School of Business and Technology, Washington, DC, USA. He has over 14 years of working experience in Information, Network, and Communication Systems and Cybersecurity across multiple industries.

His PhD research focused on Securing IoT systems with Dr Joseph Rafferty, Dr Jose Santos, Dr Mathias Garcia-Constantino, and Dr Zhan Cui (British Telecom) as his supervisors. He is currently working as a Cybersecurity Specialist at Baxter International Inc.

I received great support from my supervisory team headed by Dr Joseph Rafferty, and the whole of the British Telecom Ireland Innovation Centre (BTIIC) team. My special thanks go to God and my lovely wife - Olufunke Ajayi without whom I couldn't have gotten through this journey. My kids, as I called them the - PWD (Philip, Winifred, and David), thank you for being considerate throughout the overwhelming journey of this PhD. Also, to everyone who has contributed to my success, thank you and God bless you all.

Rachel Black

Rachel Black

PhD in Nursing and Health - Class of 2023

‘Group online EMDR for breastfeeding trauma recovery’

Supervisors

  • Professor Marlene Sinclair
  • Professor Paul Miller
  • Dr Julie McCullough

I am a mum of two amazing little boys who inspired my MSc research on women's experiences of online breastfeeding support and my PhD research which developed an online group EMDR intervention for breastfeeding trauma.

My proudest moment was when I passed my viva and my children told me they were proud of me for finishing! I'll never forget the support and encouragement I got from my supervisors throughout my whole PhD journey. If I could speak to myself at the start of my PhD, the best piece of advice I would give myself is just put one foot in front of the other. Don't look too far ahead and don't let yourself get overwhelmed, you will get there!

Seán McCallion

Seán McCallion

PhD in Biomedical Sciences - Class of 2023

‘Biomarkers associated with AKI and CKD and their progression’

Supervisors

  • Dr Taranjit Singh Rai
  • Dr Elaine Murray
  • Dr Andrew English

After taking a little longer than planned I am delighted to have completed my PhD. I had a brilliant experience meeting a lot of excellent people and feel I have progressed greatly from my PhD journey. I want to say how amazing my fiancée Danielle was throughout my time working on my PhD, giving me a lot of love and support and for the love and joy my two sons (who were born during my PhD) gave me throughout.

Susan Kelly

Susan Kelly

PhD in Psychology, Psychiatry and Neuroscience - Class of 2023

‘Evaluating the use of Evidence Based Reading Practices in special schools and classes in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland and their impact on outcomes for non-vocal students and students with complex needs’

It has been a long road! I did my PhD part time while working full time. During my PhD, I took maternity leave for both of my boys. There was a lot to juggle but I persevered and was stubborn enough not to give up. My background is in education and applied behaviour analysis and I was fortunate to have supervisors who introduced me to this field way back when I did my maters. Both Claire and Julian have been part of my own educational journey since the first year of my masters in 2007, all the way to now, finishing my PhD in 2022. I am forever grateful.

Graduating with a PhD is not something I ever believed was in my future! I always told myself, things like that don't happen to people like me! However, look at me now! The impostor syndrome is still there and is something I will have to live with, but I did it! I finished, submitted and passed my PhD!

I am so very proud of myself. I wouldn't have done it though without the support of my amazing family. My 2 beautiful boys, I began this journey for one reason, but kept going for a different one, you. All of this is for you. Both of you can do anything you set your mind to. Your funny stories and snuggles got me through some of the hardest days. Thank you both. I love you more than you will ever know.

To my husband, I put you through so much hardship, the past couple of years especially! You took it all in your stride and kept the ship afloat even when I wanted to jump overboard! Thank you for giving me time. Thank you for being you. If I could speak to myself at the start of my PhD, the best piece of advice I would give myself would be, you are not alone. Reach out and find your tribe. On some of the lowest days I found support from other PhD parents and other part timers.

Lewis Smith

Lewis Smith

PhD in Music, Drama, Dance, Performing Arts, Film and Screen Studies - Class of 2023

‘WithFeel: Embodiment as a Framework for Accessible Music Composition, Performance, and Design in Virtual Reality’

I am a composer, saxophonist and technologist from Belfast. I have been a professional musician for 30 years but returned to academia some years ago. My research uses theories of embodiment and participatory design to create desktop compositional and VR performance software with Disabled musicians.

My proudest achievement is seeing the participants in my research compose and perform their own works together in VR. I must thank those Disabled musicians for being such great friends, artists and for sharing their skills and lives with me. I was asked to be the technical lead on the Le Cheile project that resulted in the creation of the Open Youth Orchestra of Ireland. It was a privilege that I am very grateful for.

My research was filled with many wonderful moments. Research in accessible creative practices (Prof Frank Lyons' Inclusive Creativity research) is an area of research I would recommend to everyone. Seeing 30 Disabled musicians perform with electronics and VR equipment is an image that will forever stay with me. I owe my supervisors a massive debt of gratitude. One I may never be able to pay. Their trust in me, mentorship and care was invaluable.

My special thanks goes to Wee Frankie (Prof. Frank Lyons), my mentor, colleague and friend. I thought we were jazz musicians? What happened? I can't leave this message without saying thank you my cohort, for their friendship and genius and especially Dr Paul O'Hagan who has been an invaluable friend throughout the PhD and who continues to be a special friend. Did everyone get a gold chain for their PhD Paul?

Karen Carr

Karen Carr

PhD in Nursing and Health - Class of 2023

‘Investigating initiation of advance care planning conversations for children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions using mixed methods design’

Supervisors

  • Dr Felicity Hasson
  • Professor Sonja McIlfatrick
  • Professor Julia Downing

I am Karen Carr (nee Bleakley) a nurse for 30+ years. I have cared for children with acute and chronic care needs and predominantly those with palliative care requirements. My thesis involved surveying and interviewing bereaved parents and parents of very ill children and health care professionals to investigate their experiences regarding the initiation of advance care planning for the ill child.

I chose this topic as it reflects the increasing difficulty parents and health professionals face regarding multiple options and future care planning and decision making in today’s highly technological and medicalised society. I was brilliantly supported through my study by my UU supervisors, Dr Felicity Hasson, Professor Sonja McIlfatrick and International children’s palliative care Professor Julia Downing.

I had hoped that I would have the opportunity to be a full-time student for the first time in my career however covid presented the challenge of balancing PhD studies with home schooling, family life and working – all of which have made graduation even sweeter.

y proudest moment was when I had my first paper published. My favourite memory was laughing in ‘The Doc’ pe covid with the second- and third-year PhD students. I’ll never forget interviews with bereaved parents and parents of very ill children.

I couldn’t have got through this without my colleagues and supervisors ant the ongoing support of family. If I could speak to myself at the start of my PhD, the best piece of advice I would give myself would be to relax and enjoy the calmer times as the manic times counterbalancethem. I would also advocate for the need to spend time away from the screen with colleagues as listening and chatting to other PhD students is educational, informative and a good way to remain grounded.

Laura Sirabella

Laura Sirabella

PhD in Social Work and Social Policy - Class of 2023

‘Translating sustainable development goals to address poor reproductive health: exploring the role of civil society organisations’

My name is Laura Sirabella, I am a social worker with a passion for reproductive justice and social research. Born in Italy, I had several work and study experiences between Europe and sub-Saharan Africa on reproductive health and rights, social inclusion, migration, youth work, access to education.

My interest in reproductive health and rights stems from my exposure to the intersection of poverty, gender based violence, lack of access to contraception, reproductive health care services, safe abortions, education that I witnessed while working in the humanitarian field. I then had the opportunity to spend a semester at Makerere University in Uganda for a research on this topic.

This lead to the enrolment in a PhD programme, because I wanted to research further reproductive rights and doing a PhD was a great opportunity to increase my knowledge and give a contribution to the field of reproductive justice. My PhD project sets out to explore the role of civil society organisations in improving reproductive health in Uganda and how this is impacted by international policy making.

More specifically, the project seeks to fill the knowledge gap about how civil society organisations can help in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals on reproductive health, especially on how to translate policies into concrete actions to reach the population and how to advocate to the government for better policies.

Moreover, it is explored how such organisations help in transforming individuals and communities to act as agents to improve their reproductive capabilities and therefore have the real opportunity to choose about their reproductive health.

Martin Murray

Martin Murray

PhD in Architecture, Built Environment and Planning - Class of 2023

‘NZEB RECONSIDERED: Optimality step-changes understood through an urban loose-fit development, within a temperate oceanic climate, as though ‘carbon matters’’

'Juggling' is perhaps the greatest skill and achievement learned across the research period ! Balancing family demands with, reading, writing, and conferences allowed for a rich insight into all my strengths and weaknesses. My proudest moment was sharing with my family the result of the viva examination, while my favourite memory was an outdoor meal at the PLEA conference of 2022, within the architectural school of Santiago, Chile, sharing views and thoughts with a broad range of bright, international academics and practitioners.

A Doctorate is so different to undergraduate work, it can swamp you, if you come unprepared, and it would not have been possible without the encouragement of those closest to me, my dear family; and without some really good academic guidance. I have been fortunate in both.

The special moment that I'll never forget, was as the thesis began to coalesce, and I realised suddenly, (it crept up on me), that I had an achievable structure within which to frame my arguments ! Sage advice received midway through the studies, could be summarised as 'with patience and perseverance, success is inevitable'; this became my go-to reflection as the ebb and flow of the final year evolved.

My thanks to all who shared the journey, and to Ulster University for the opportunity and research structure which framed a really enjoyable few years.

Robert Runya

Robert Runya

PhD inGeography, Environmental Studies and Archaeology - Class of 2023

‘Remote sensing for ecological monitoring in the marine environment: advancing best practices’

Supervisors:

  • Dr Chris McGonigle
  • Dr Rory Quinn

Warm greetings to you all!!  I express my heartfelt gratitude to my supervisors for their outstanding accomplishments within the field of marine science and geophysics and their kind support during my research. Their contributions have greatly inspired me, affirming our shared dedication to advancing knowledge and fostering innovation. I firmly believe that our harmonious interests, coupled with our diverse expertise and perspectives, hold the potential to illuminate uncharted paths within our field.

My proudest moment was when I successfully defended my doctoral thesis, culminating years of dedicated research, perseverance, and intellectual growth. It was an incredible feeling to share my findings with esteemed scholars in my field and receive their validation and recognition. This milestone not only marked the completion of my PhD journey but also affirmed my capabilities as a marine scientist. Of course in between my PhD journey I had small wins to celebrate like getting my first-author article published and being able to weathers the storm of COVID-19 to completion.

My favourite memory was the first 2019 field survey at sea I participated in during my PhD research which also marked the start of my new age - the 30s. Spending two weeks aboard a RV Celtic Explorer, surrounded by the vastness of the ocean, collecting data was an awe-inspiring experience. The camaraderie among my colleagues, the shared excitement of discovery, and the breath-taking beauty of the marine environment created unforgettable memories that continue to inspire and fuel my passion for marine science. Despite the COVID-19 restriction and having to do virtual meetings, I'll never forget the moment I first presented my research findings at an international conference during the European Geoscience Union 2020 conference. Stepping onto the virtual stage, I felt a mix of nervousness and excitement.

As I shared my discoveries and insights, the positive feedback, intellectual discussions, and connections I made with fellow researchers left an indelible mark on my professional journey. It was a transformative experience that solidified my confidence in my research and motivated me to pursue further scientific contributions. I couldn't have gotten through this without the unwavering support of my mentors, colleagues, friends, and family. Their encouragement, guidance, and belief in my abilities were invaluable.

From the countless hours spent discussing research ideas to providing emotional support during challenging times such COVID-19, their presence was instrumental in helping me navigate the ups and downs of the PhD journey. I am forever grateful for their unwavering belief in me. If I could speak to myself at the start of my PhD, the best piece of advice I would give myself would be to embrace the process and enjoy the journey. The path to obtaining a PhD is demanding and filled with highs and lows, but it is also an opportunity for immense personal and intellectual growth.

I would remind myself to be resilient, to seek support when needed, and to celebrate small victories along the way. Most importantly, I would encourage myself to have confidence in my abilities and to remember that the pursuit of knowledge is an extraordinary adventure worth treasuring.

Nikki McQuillan

Nikki McQuillan

PhD in Business and Management Studies - Class of 2023

‘The role of entrepreneurial leadership in generating augmented SME growth: an exploratory study’

Supervisors:

  • Professor Heather Farley
  • Dr Darryl Cummins

I am mum of 3 beautiful ‘grown up’ children, Katie, Steven and Tony, and married to my best friend Michael. I am also a full-time senior lecturer in Ulster University Business School.  My PhD research uncovered that SME entrepreneurial leaders generate augmented SME growth.

Augmented growth is the combined outcomes of an SMEs commercial and social contribution to their local community prosperity. SME growth policy incorporating a more holistic augmented measure could demonstrate the ‘real’ value SMEs contribute to economic development, societal prosperity and wellbeing. My favourite memories without doubt were PhD submission day and my husband whisked me out to dinner unexpectedly, and after my viva meeting Michael and Katie for a celebratory toot!

I’ll never forget rising at 5am every Saturday and Sunday for 5 years to go to my desk and at 9am having breakfast with Michael to debate all things entrepreneurial and SME growth. If I could speak to myself at the start of my PhD, the best piece of advice I could give myself would be to be disciplined, strive to maintain a work life balance and be kind to yourself.

I couldn’t have got through this without my family, who showed so much patience, love and encouraged me to keep ‘chipping’ when I was struggling with self-doubt. Finally, I couldn’t have got through this without Michael, who always encouraged me to do my best, achieve my potential, always understood… and to him I dedicate this thesis.

Aysheh Alamoush

Aysheh Alamoush

PhD in Nursing and Health - Class of 2023

‘Emotional intelligence among nursing teachers and the effect on the students motivation level’

Supervisors:

  • Professor Owen Barr
  • Dr Karen Kirby

When I started my PhD journey, I was very excited and motivated and I was confident that I can do it, but as I started my research project the excitement started to fade, I suddenly found myself struggling with no motivation or confidence. I remember at those times all I needed to fuel my motivation is to call my son and meet my supervisors, as soon as I do this the magic happens and I get back to my research.

It was a very hard journey, but now I look back to those days and I look to what I have achieved, and I realize that the achievement worth’s all the hard times. my great supervisors professor Owen Barr and Dr Karen Kirby thank you for all the support you both gave me. My son, my brothers and sisters and most importantly my mum, they believed in me and helped me to believe in myself every time I had doubts.

And finally, to Mary from students' wellbeing team, thank you very much for your support.