Brian Jackson
Director - Global Irish Institute
University College Dublin

Biography

The study of Ireland is a key research priority for University College Dublin and through its Global Irish Institute it has initiated a unique fourth level (PhD and Post-Doctoral) research programme exploring the development of Ireland’s relationship with the wider world.  Drawing on the University’s unique collection of materials for the study of Irish history, culture and folklore, this programme aims to transform the study of Ireland, re-imagine the idea of a university and create a nexus for scholarship, policy and active civic engagement.  The programme looks beyond the traditional parameters of Irish studies and using methodological approaches from a range of disciplines in the humanities and social sciences it explores four key themes

• Footprints of Ireland: heritage and landscape
• Irish Identities: cultural and linguistic expression
• State and Society: historical development and contemporary challenges
• The Irish Experience: conflict resolution, political integration and economic development.

Brian Jackson is Director of the Global Irish Institute, University College Dublin.  His principal research interests are the structural and cultural development of religious corporations, the influence of Irish religious orders on Catholic religious and social culture both in Ireland and the wider world.  His doctoral dissertation was on the role and influence played by the Jesuits on the development of a Catholic Counter-Reformation in Ireland.

Prior to UCD, Brian has worked in both business and cultural sectors.  He was a consultant with Price Waterhouse, specialising in corporate taxation, mergers and business restructuring.  He worked for two major private healthcare groups, Goldsborough and BUPA, where his responsibilities included implementing and managing change processes.  He has also worked for the Abbey Theatre, Ireland’s national theatre.

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