Contact me at: loftus.mary@itsligo.ie

I am currently in the final stages of a PhD program at NUI Galway, where I am researching ways of using Probabilistic Graphical Models and other Machine Learning approaches in Learning Analytics in order to improve student learning experiences. I also teach on the Internet of Things module - which is part of IT Sligo's BSc in Computing programs and Programming for Big Data - part of our MSc in Data Science.
Previous to this, I spent almost 5 years managing a corporate IT Dept and before that I spent 15 years in IT consulting, e-learning development and teaching.

National University of Ireland, Galway – PhD Student / 2015 - present
Research in Learning Analytics – using probabilistic machine learning to encourage student metacognition and self-direction in learning.

IT Sligo - 2015 - present
Lecturer on IT Sligo’s BSc in Computing.

GSK Sligo – IT Business Partner / 2011 - 2015
Overall leadership and development of the site IT team and accountability for IT function and strategy, implementation of global standards, management of OPEX & CAPEX, alignment of central project delivery to site strategies and plans. Led global training programs and capability building initiatives across site. From 2012 to 2015, I led a €2m complete site IT infrastructure replacement project including WAN, LAN, Server, Storage & Workstation

National University of Ireland, Galway – Online Course Developer & Facilitator / 2007 - present Developed online course materials for modules in a 2yr Masters program – including Software Engineering & Distributed Systems & Artificial Intelligence. Taught these and other modules and enjoyed creating a student-centred, online learning space with students.

Vision Communications – IT Consultant/1995 - 2011 Served a wide variety of public and private sector clients e.g. Health Service Executive, Local Authorities, Solas/FAS (State Training Agency), Western Development Commission, manufacturing sites: GSK, Hollister Inc, Abbott Laboratories, Magee, Kompass Irl & training companies – Synergy Network, Compupac

Previous Roles:
Sligo Chamber of Commerce - Director / 1995-1996
North Connaught Youth Service / 1989-1995
RTE (College Placement) – Archival & Research / 1987-1989