Dr
Sabrina
Fitzsimons
Academic biography
Sabrina is Co-Director of CREATE and an Assistant Professor of Education based in the School of Policy and Practice. A Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, Sabrina's research explores Educator Occupational Wellbeing in Ireland and the United Kingdom.
Sabrina's research has been cited in the official records of the Oireachtas, including Seanad Éireann and the Joint Committee on Education and Youth, as well as in proceedings of the Northern Ireland Assembly (Stormont). Her research has also informed cross-party political statements across both jurisdictions. She was an invited keynote speaker at the Westminster Education Forum Conference, a guest speaker for the Division of Work and Organisational Psychology (Ireland) and a keynote speaker at the 2026 ASTI National Convention.
Along with a strong record of peer-reviewed publications in academic journals, Sabrina has written articles for BERA, EERA, WONKHE and other research-sharing outlets, including prominent professional body publications such as The Irish Psychologist and the British Psychological Soc
Research interests
Mental health and well-being in education, including burnout, rustout, flourishing, and quality of life among educators across schools and higher education. Online environments and innovative practices, including virtual learning, online communities, challenge-based learning, and the use of digital technologies in teaching and learning. Teacher education, with interests in student teachers’ placement experiences, research engagement, and professional development.Doctoral Graduates Supervised
Dr Ciara Morrison Reilly; Dr Tara Talbot; Dr Siobhan Kavanagh; Dr Yvonne Naughton; Dr Jude Murphy; Dr Philomena Clare; Dr Patrick Boylan; Dr Sharon Cunningham.