Helen is a PhD student funded by the Conflict Resolution Unit of the Department of Foreign Affairs and IRCHSS. Her research investigates the Disarmament, Demobilisation, Rehabilitation and Reintegration process in Liberia, with a particular focus on ex-combatant women and post-conflict recovery. Prior to joining the department in 2006 (where she completed the MA in Peace and Development), Helen had a very eclectic background. With a very good degree in Sports Science from the University of Birmingham, life conspired to lead her towards a career in international development. She worked for War Child in London for a number of years and at the same time gained a diploma in Development Studies from the University of London before moving to Ireland. Whilst her academic focus today is directed towards Peace and Conflict Studies, she still maintains her link with development and is a director of a small Irish NGO called No Strings Ireland that uses puppets made by the makers of the Muppets, to deliver life-saving messages to children and their families in the developing world.