Universities are both apart from and a part of society. They are apart in the sense that they provide a critically important space for grasping the world as it is and – importantly – for re-imagining the world as it ought to be ... But universities are also part of our societies. What’s the point unless the accumulated knowledge, insight and vision are put at the service of the community? With the privilege to pursue knowledge comes the civic responsibility to engage and put that knowledge to work in the service of humanity. - President Michael D. Higgins, 2012

Research impact has been identified as a core part of UCC’s research mission and strategic priorities and, in simple terms, is about defining how research is important and what effects it is having in local, national and international contexts. It represents both the reasons for and the reach of our research activities in response to emerging and changing societal challenges and research priorities, which the impact agenda itself contributes to and shapes.

This page presents some recent case studies on completed and ongoing research projects in the College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences (CACSSS), developed by researchers at all career stages (including postgraduates, postdoctoral researchers & professors). The case studies were completed using an Impact Case Study Template and associated Template Guidance Document designed by CACSSS Research Support for our annual Impact Case Study Narrative Prize Scheme. Together they showcase our commitment to an open and engaged research culture and to nurturing and celebrating excellent research across the College.

Stories of Research Impact 2025

Stories of Research Impact 2018-2024