Niamh earned a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Food Science at Queen Margaret University before beginning her career in the food industry as a New Product Development Technologist. Driven by a desire to apply the clinical knowledge gained during her undergraduate studies, she transitioned into a role as a dietetic support worker in the Southeastern Health and Social Care Trust, which solidified her interest in patient-centred nutrition.

Now a PhD researcher within from the Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE) at Ulster University, her research explores the dietary patterns and nutritional challenges faced by individuals living with an ileostomy. Dedicated to Patient and Public Involvement in research, Niamh is an active committee member of the Ileostomy Association Northern Ireland and serves as a patient ambassador for the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland. Her PhD utilises both qualitative and quantitative research methods to enhance the quality of life for those with an ileostomy, bridging the gap between research and real-world patient needs.