Colin Marren

Walsh Scholar

Research Interests

I have a keen interest in wood technology and design.

I have a particular interest in smaller diameter native hardwood logs and their potential to become a sustainable part of wood manufacturing in our country. This could reduce the level of imported hardwoods which currently stands at 95%.

Current Projects

My current research is titled “Investigation of the Utilisation and Working Properties of Small Diameter Irish Grown Alder (Alnus glutinosa)”.

The research looks to investigate the working properties and potential utilisation of second thinnings of alder logs (20-30cm diameter) and looks to reveal new ways to add value to this underutilised and undervalued resource.

Exploitation of small diameter alder

Education

L.8 B.Sc (Furniture Design and Manufacture), National Centre for Excellence in Furniture Design and Technology Letterfrack, Galway Mayo Institute of Technology.