Meet our Team
Our multidisciplinary Cyber Safety team has a variety of skills in many areas.
Dr. Hazel Murray, the project’s lead, specialises in cyber security advice and guidance.
Dr. Michelle O’Keeffe, the project’s co-lead, specialises in research, user experience, and participatory design.
Dr. Ashley Sheil specialises in privacy and security, and has expertise in deceptive online practices.
Melanie Gruben is a psychologist specialising in compassionate research methods.
Jacob Camilleri is our game design specialist, also skilled in quantitative analysis.
Moya Cronin is a user experience researcher, designer and illustrator.
Anne Ryan-Duffy holds a MSc in Cybercrime Investigations and is a volunteer with the national crime victims helpline.
Elaine Calnan is the Marketing Executive for the Cyber Safety Team.
Our values
Our goal is to eliminate the fear and uncertainty that many people feel when using technology.
The Cybersafety project is not just about closing gaps — we are opening doors to independence, opportunity, and equity for all.
Get in touchProject Timeline
Beginning of Project - Concept Phase
Our project began with a mission to address the unique cybersecurity challenges older adults face in an increasingly digital world. This initiative was inspired by the "Creating Our Futures" report, which highlighted the need for better technological support for older...
Our project began with a mission to address the unique cybersecurity challenges older adults face in an increasingly digital world. This initiative was inspired by the "Creating Our Futures" report, which highlighted the need for better technological support for older adults as a key priority for the Irish public. To ensure the project’s focus was rooted in the real concerns and experiences of this demographic, we conducted in-depth interviews with older adults. These conversations provided critical insights into their fears, challenges, and misunderstandings about technology, laying the foundation for creating resources that could meet their needs. By listening to their voices, we set out to empower them with practical tools and knowledge to navigate the digital space safely and confidently.
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02/08/2023
Seed Phase
As the project gained momentum, its scope grew significantly. We partnered with libraries and organisations across Ireland to extend the reach of our work, creating a robust network for sharing tailored cybersecurity advice. Workshops were conducted nationwide, providing older adults...
As the project gained momentum, its scope grew significantly. We partnered with libraries and organisations across Ireland to extend the reach of our work, creating a robust network for sharing tailored cybersecurity advice. Workshops were conducted nationwide, providing older adults with hands-on opportunities to enhance their digital literacy and confidence with engaging with technology. To ensure our resources were effective and accessible, we employed a co-design approach, involving older adults in user testing and resource development during group sessions. These collaborative efforts ensured our materials were both practical and engaging. By building these partnerships and incorporating community feedback, we created a strong foundation for promoting cybersecurity and digital inclusion on a national scale.
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20/11/2023
Current Progress - Grow Phase
The Grow Phase has been a period of expansion and innovation. We’ve developed a range of impactful tools, including a Cybersafety card game, an information booklet, and a dedicated resource hub on our website. Our e-learning platform has also been...
The Grow Phase has been a period of expansion and innovation. We’ve developed a range of impactful tools, including a Cybersafety card game, an information booklet, and a dedicated resource hub on our website. Our e-learning platform has also been launched, equipping digital educators and support workers with the skills and knowledge to promote cybersecurity in their communities. Throughout this phase, we continued to refine our resources with co-design sessions, ensuring they met the needs of their intended audiences. The project has gained significant recognition, including being featured on RTÉ’s “10 Things to Know About" programme in November 2024, highlighting the importance and impact of our work.
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07/01/2024
Future Goals
Looking to the future, we aim to broaden the scope of the project to reach out beyond older adults to other demographics as well. We are committed to making our resources widely available and adaptable for diverse communities, including individuals...
Looking to the future, we aim to broaden the scope of the project to reach out beyond older adults to other demographics as well. We are committed to making our resources widely available and adaptable for diverse communities, including individuals with limited digital exposure or unique challenges. By expanding the accessibility of our tools, we aim to create a safer and more inclusive digital environment for all. Our long-term vision is to ensure that everyone, regardless of age or ability, can navigate the digital world securely and confidently. Through ongoing collaboration, innovation, and outreach, we remain dedicated to empowering individuals and communities to embrace technology without fear.
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10/04/2024