Assoc ProfessorCaitriona Cunningham

Caitríona Cunningham is an Associate Professor in the School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science and is Director of UCD's BSc Physiotherapy  professional programme. A graduate of UCD Physiotherapy (B. Physio),  Caitríona worked as a clinician (USA, UK, Ireland) for over ten years, specialising in Musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapy and completing graduate studies  at University College London (MSc) and UCD (PhD, H Dip University teaching). 

 Her research focuses on musculoskeletal health with current projects regarding:  Implementation of Integrated MSK healthcare services, Advanced Practice MSK Physiotherapy, Bone Health and Fracture Prevention; Exercise and Sarcopenia; Obesity Education for Healthcare professionals. Her research findings are widely published, with regular invited lectures and international research, editorial and health service consultancy roles,  which positively impact clinical practice and health services. As a member of the Physiotherapy Steering Group of the International Fragility Fracture Network and through ongoing research, health service collaborations and community exercise programmes, Caitriona furthers best practice in the prevention and management of fragility fractures.
A former Associate Dean of Teaching and Learning at UCD School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, she promotes excellence in teaching practices. Leading on major curriculum enhancement projects, she drives education innovations (eg. Cofounder and Director, UCD Physio Hub), with related publications and University teaching awards. She teaches across undergraduate and graduate entry physiotherapy programmes, with specific focus on musculoskeletal health and exercise and is Director of UCD's Pre Physical Therapy Study Abroad Programme. Caitríona is a former Chairperson of the Chartered Physiotherapists in Education (ISCP) employment group in Ireland and has held numerous professional leadership roles over her career. 
As a  longstanding member of UCD's Widening Participation (in Education) Committee and a UCD University for ALL Faculty partner, she promotes diversity and inclusion in higher education and previously chaired UCD's Widening Participation Outreach Coordinating Network.