Dr Barry McCarron, Eimear Montague, Heather McLachlan and Kieran Harding bring a wealth of expertise in construction, the circular economy, heritage conservation and business. Their collective knowledge will enrich academic programmes, drive research innovation and strengthen industry partnerships, embedding sustainability as a core pillar of the University’s mission.
Working under the leadership of the Dean of Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility, the new Professors will contribute to shaping policy, driving innovation and preparing the next generation of sustainability leaders.
The appointed Visiting Professors are:
- Dr Barry McCarron, Managing Director of KORE Retrofit and Chair of the Passive House Association of Ireland, a specialist in energy-efficient building design and retrofit solutions, advancing research on indoor air quality and building performance
- Eimear Montague, Executive Director of the Northern Ireland Resources Network (NIRN), a champion of the circular economy, instrumental in shaping Northern Ireland’s first draft Circular Economy Strategy
- Heather McLachlan, Director for Northern Ireland at National Trust, an expert in conservation, biodiversity, and sustainable land management, leading major restoration and environmental projects
- Kieran Harding, Managing Director of Business in the Community Northern Ireland (BITCNI), an advocate for corporate sustainability, supporting businesses in embedding ethical and sustainable practices.
Prof Ian Montgomery, Dean of Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility at Ulster University, said:
“Each of our four Visiting Professors brings a wealth of experience and shared dedication to environmental stewardship, social responsibility and sustainable economic practices. I am thrilled to welcome these esteemed professionals to Ulster University, where their expertise will not only benefit our students, but also strengthen our collective efforts in tackling today’s most pressing sustainability challenges.
“As members of the University’s External Sustainability Advisory Board, they will play a pivotal role in supporting our strategic sustainability and climate priorities. Their insights will enhance sustainability approaches within our academic programmes, influence our sustainability and corporate social responsibility research direction, and help us identify collaborative opportunities within their respective fields.
“We look forward to working with them on a range of sustainability initiatives, including guest lectures, panel discussions, and consultation projects, ensuring that our engagement with industry and the wider community remains dynamic and impactful.”
Meet the new Visiting Professors
Dr Barry McCarron is a recognised leader in energy-efficient building design and retrofit solutions. As Managing Director of KORE Retrofit and Chair of the Passive House Association of Ireland, he has played a pivotal role in promoting sustainable construction practices.
Dr McCarron’s research on indoor air quality and building performance has been showcased internationally, and he has represented Ireland at major climate conferences, including COP17, COP26, and COP27. Through his role as Visiting Professor, Dr McCarron will collaborate with the University to develop innovative approaches to energy efficiency, helping to shape the next generation of professionals in sustainable construction.
As Executive Director of the Northern Ireland Resources Network (NIRN), Eimear Montague is at the forefront of the circular economy movement in Northern Ireland. She has led pioneering initiatives to promote reuse, repair, and sustainable resource management, working closely with government, industry, and academia. Alongside helping to establish and develop NIRN, Eimear has also played a key role in shaping Northern Ireland’s first draft Circular Economy Strategy.
Eimear’s appointment as a Visiting Professor will support Ulster University in integrating circular economy principles into its research and teaching, preparing students to tackle pressing environmental challenges.
Heather McLachlan, Director for Northern Ireland at National Trust, has been a driving force in conservation, biodiversity, and sustainable land management for over a decade. She has led major projects, including an £8.5 million restoration at Mount Stewart, large-scale land acquisitions and strategies for coastal protection and green space access.
As a Visiting Professor, Heather will bring invaluable insight into sustainable heritage conservation, ensuring that environmental stewardship is woven into Ulster University’s research and education programmes.
Kieran Harding, Managing Director of Business in the Community Northern Ireland (BITCNI), is a leading advocate for responsible business practices. Under his leadership, BITCNI supports over 250 organisations in embedding sustainability into their operations.
In his role as Visiting Professor, Kieran will drive research and forge partnerships that empower businesses to adopt sustainable and ethical practices. His expertise will be instrumental in advancing the University’s commitment to sustainable development goals.
The new Visiting Professors take up their roles with immediate effect.
