Research Summary
My PhD research addresses the urgent issue of femicide in Northern Ireland, a post-conflict society where femicide rates are currently the second highest in Europe. The central question of this socio-legal study is whether the specific criminalisation of femicide as a standalone offence, i.e., distinct from general homicide or murder, should be introduced in Northern Ireland to give due recognition to the harms caused by gender-based murder. This research will also explore whether the persistent use of gender-neutral language, such as ‘homicide’ or ‘murder’, has historically undermined and concealed the misogynistic elements of femicide.
Using a qualitative socio-legal methodology, I will apply various feminist legal theories, such as conflict, control, and dominance models, to understand how gender inequality has historically been rationalised within patriarchal legal systems.
Background and Experience
Before commencing my PhD, I have developed a strong foundation in legal research, practice and pedagogy. I have worked in academia and my commitment to legal education is reflected in my award of Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) and my recent scholarly activity, including winning joint first prize (the Stan Marsh Prize) at the Association of Law Teachers Conference in April 2025 for my research paper “Designing and Implementing Innovative and Authentic Assessments in Legal Education”.
My academic background includes an LLB (Hons) Law from Ulster University, an LLM in International Commercial Law and Practice from the University of Edinburgh and a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education (PGCHE) from Bath Spa University.
I also have professional experience working within law firms in the areas of corporate, commercial and property law, including roles at Allen & Overy (now A&O Shearman), Pinsent Masons, and Herbert Smith Freehills.
