Education: PhD Ulster University, 2013,BSc Hons Ulster University, 2008. Julie had previously studied horticulture at Wisley where she developed an interest in soils and soil nutrients. Since completing her PhD she has worked at Ulster as a part time lecturer and researcher in freshwater sciences.

Julie is a freshwater scientist with interests in the management and recycling of nutrients in freshwater catchments. Her recent research on the DETECT (EPA) project focused on developing a model for lake recovery timescales based on sediment phosphorus analysis. She is currently working on the Catchment CARE (INTERREG) project looking at the potential ecotoxicological effects of chemical remediation of lakes in Ireland.

Although not currently teaching due to research commitments Julie has previously taught freshwater science on the second and third year modules. She has also contributed to teaching on residential fieldschools both in Ireland and abroad.