UL academic awarded prestigious international psychology fellowship
Deirdre O'Shea, Professor of Work and Organisational Psychology at UL’s Kemmy Business School, has been elected a Fellow of the International Association of Applied Psychology (IAAP), one of the highest honours bestowed by the organisation.
Professor O'Shea received the distinction during the 31st International Congress of Applied Psychology (ICAP), held in Florence, Italy, in July 2026.
Professor O'Shea is internationally recognised for her research in work and organisational psychology, with particular expertise in work motivation, self-management skills of individuals, and occupational health psychology.
Her work has influenced both academic scholarship and organisational practice, contributing to improved understanding of psychological factors that support healthy, safe, and productive workplaces.
Commenting on the honour, Professor O'Shea said: "I am deeply grateful to be elected a Fellow of the International Association of Applied Psychology. This recognition reflects the support of wonderful colleagues, collaborators, and students over many years, both at UL and internationally. I am proud to represent University of Limerick and Ireland within the global applied psychology community."
ICAP is the flagship congress of the IAAP, the world's oldest international association dedicated to applied psychology, bringing together leading researchers, practitioners and policymakers from across the globe.
IAAP Fellowship recognises distinguished psychologists who have made substantial and sustained contributions to the field of applied psychology through research, practice, leadership and service to the profession.
Professor O'Shea's election as an IAAP Fellow highlights the University of Limerick's growing international reputation for excellence in psychological research and its commitment to addressing real-world challenges through impactful scholarship.
The recognition places Professor O'Shea among a distinguished group of international psychologists whose work has made a significant contribution to advancing the science and practice of applied psychology worldwide.
