Kieran Harrahill

Kieran Harrahill is a PhD researcher with UCD (School of Architecture, Planning & Environmental Policy) and Teagasc. He is based at the Teagasc Rural Economy Research Centre in Athenry, Co. Galway. His PhD study will take an actor-oriented approach to understand the evolving interface between the bioeconomy and society in Ireland. The bioeconomy comprises of parts of the economy that use biological resources from the land and sea, as well as waste, as inputs to food and feed, industrial and energy production.

Kieran's study is a part of BiOrbic, Ireland's National Bioeconomy Research Centre. His research study will use a number of qualitative research methods to enhance the understanding of the relationship between the bioeconomy and different sections of society within an Irish context, particularly those who will play the role of producer in the developed bioeconomy (farmers, fisheries and forestry).

Prior to beginning his PhD research, Kieran completed a Master's degree in Environmental Policy with his thesis topic focusing on the development of a framework for evaluating the implementation of "just transition" policies in three regions previously dependent on coal for employment.