Tue, 11th Jan 2022

University of Limerick appoint Dr Paddy Finn as Adjunct Professor of Smart Energy Systems.

The Department of Electronic & Computer Engineering at University of Limerick this week welcomed Dr Paddy Finn, VIOTAS CEO & CTO, to the faculty as Adjunct Professor of Smart Energy Systems.

With renewable and sustainable energy sources being increasingly integral to modern power systems, it is essential that current and future engineering students are aware of the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Dr Paddy Finn’s continued frontline experience in leading the development of ground-breaking Demand Response solutions, endow him with insights and learnings which will bring significant value to University of Limerick students interested in developing next-generation smart energy solutions.

The appointment neatly completes the circle for Dr Finn who previously spent a total of 12 years at the University of Limerick, where he attained his undergraduate and doctorate degrees, and undertook two postdoctoral research fellowships. It was during this period at the university that Dr Finn developed an interest in Demand Response and smart grid solutions, which he credits to Professor Colin Fitzpatrick, now Head of the Department of Electronic & Computer Engineering.

Looking back on the time I spent at the University of Limerick, from undergraduate through to postdoctoral research fellow, I most fondly remember the teaching opportunities that allowed me share my own learnings, perspectives, and approach to problem solving with others.

I am now truly humbled and honoured by my appointment as adjunct professor of Smart Energy Systems at my alma mater. I look forward to supporting the department in the enhancement of content relating to smart power systems, so a greater number of graduates can enjoy rewarding careers where they apply their skills and knowledge to solving the technical challenges associated with decarbonisation globally.’

Dr Paddy Finn

Professor Colin Fitzpatrick added, “We are thrilled that Dr Paddy Finn will be joining us as an adjunct Professor. Our students will benefit enormously from working with a tech entrepreneur at the cutting edge of smart grid systems who is taking technology that was developed here in Limerick and rolling it out across the world. As Ireland and countries across the globe strive to reach ambitious decarbonisations goals over the coming decade, it is essential that our engineering students are exposed to the ideas, technologies and business models which are needed to get us on this sustainable pathway and this is one of many ways that we are embedding the UN Sustainable Development Goals across the curriculum here at UL.” 

University of Limerick announcement: https://www.ul.ie/news-centre/news/university-limerick-appoints-energy-entrepreneur-adjunct-professor-smart-energy

Limerick Leader announcement: https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/education/717834/university-of-limerick-appoints-new-adjunct-professor-of-smart-energy-systems.html