Caitriona Corr’s path to doctoral study at South East Technological University (SETU) began in the classroom and on community pitches across the south east.
After completing her BSc in Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Limerick in 1998, she spent several years teaching PE and Science at St. Leo's Convent in Carlow and Grennan College in Thomastown.
Her interest in widening access to sport led her to Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership, where she worked as a Sports Development Officer. In this role, she developed opportunities for people from disadvantaged communities, people with disabilities, and others who face additional barriers to participation. Working directly with communities to enhance local facilities sparked a deeper curiosity: how does the built environment influence physical activity and health across the life course?
That question became the foundation for her PhD journey at SETU.
Research grounded in community need
Caitriona began her doctoral research at a pivotal moment for sustainable transport in Ireland. Working under the supervision of Dr Barry Lambe and Professor Niamh Murphy, she explored how Irish towns can cultivate a stronger cycling culture, building on earlier work undertaken by her supervisory team.
Her research took a systems approach, recognising that enabling cycling requires more than infrastructure; it also needs strong partnerships, community engagement, and coordinated planning. Kilkenny city served as the research base, supported through a collaboration with Kilkenny County Council and the Irish Research Council.
Research informing real-world change
The timing could not have been better. As Caitriona’s research progressed, Local Authorities across Ireland were establishing dedicated Active Travel teams. This alignment allowed her findings to be translated directly into practice and to influence the development of the Active Travel network in Kilkenny city.
“Being able to see my research shape plans and decisions on the ground was incredibly rewarding,” she said. “It demonstrated the value of evidence-informed approaches within local communities.”
A special milestone for the Corr family
Caitriona says the support of her supervisors and colleagues in Kilkenny County Council was vital throughout her PhD journey. She describes her graduation as “extra special”, as it took place in the same week her son, Michael, graduated with a degree in Agricultural Science.
“It was a proud moment for us both,” she said.
