Getting to know Sinéad McCarthy

Sinéad McCarthy leads Teagasc’s consumer behaviour research programme, in relation to food and health. Here, we find out more about Sinéad and her interests inside and outside of work.

Do you remember when your love for science began, Sinéad?

Yes! It started in primary school and grew from there. I went to University College Cork to pursue my love of science by completing a Bachelor of Science. While there, I developed a keen interest in the link between food and health, so I went on to complete a Masters in Food Science and a PhD in Public Health Nutrition.

How did you end up at Teagasc?

I joined in 2007, after spending nearly 10 years at Trinity College Dublin managing many of the national food consumption surveys. At Teagasc, I’ve been involved in many areas of nutrition and consumer research.

What are your current research areas?

Research areas include food sustainability, consumer acceptance of novel food technologies and nutrition and health for the older consumer.

I’m also the co-ordinator of the Sensory Food Network Ireland (SFNI) – helping to facilitate collaborative and innovative research in sensory science.

What’s the highlight of your role?

Supervising students and seeing them achieve their degrees, and in some cases doing collaborative research as part of their new careers.

Finally, does your interest in food and health extend to your personal life?

Absolutely. My husband, two daughters and I enjoy running, and were involved in setting up our local parkrun.

And at weekends, I love to cook and serve up tasty dishes to family and friends. Although I’m no master chef, they keep coming back for more!  

Contact

sinead.mccarthy@teagasc.ie