Meet the Scientist - Dr Donnacha Doody

I joined AFBI in May 2007 as a Senior Scientific Officer (SSO) working on soil hydrology. In 2011, I was promoted to Principal Scientific Officer (PSO) and now lead the Catchment Science Research Unit in Agri-Environment Branch.

Most of my work is on research related to the implementation of the EU Water Frame Work Directive, EU Nitrates Directive and Phosphorus Regulations. In addition to the research, the role involves significant interaction with policy makers in the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), providing them with advice and the evidence bases to balance agronomic and water quality objectives in Northern Ireland.

Part of my role also involved building collaborations and networks across the globe, and to this end I spent 4 months last summer with the USDA-ARS in Pennsylvania, funded by a Fulbright Scholarship.  Establishing these sorts of links is increasingly important for building international collaborations and seeking funding.

Interesting facts about Dr Donnacha Doody:

Can you cook? If so, what is your speciality dish?
Yes, my kids tell me I do a good Spaghetti Bolognese

What is the last book you read?
McMafia by Misha Glenny

What is your favourite book?
Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett

What is your favourite TV/radio show?
Peaky Blinders

What is your favourite Film?
The Big Lebowski or Pulp Fiction

Who would you most like to be stuck in a lift with?
A person who know how to fix lifts!

Who’s the last person you would like to be stuck in a lift with?
My kids!

If you were stuck on a desert island and you could bring 3 things – what would they be?
A seaplane, a pilot and fuel

If you were stuck on a desert island and you could bring along 3 people – Who would you bring?
Jack Black, Bear Grylls, and my brother

If you weren’t in your current position what job/career would you like to be doing?
Always fancied myself as a vet!

Do you have a pet? If so, what is it and what is its name?
Cat named Fanta

What are your hobbies?
Rugby, reading, my kids, travelling

What 3 things would you put on your bucket list?
Visit Japan, climb to Everest base camp, live in the Caribbean

What is your favourite team/sport you support?
Munster Rugby

What sport do/did you play?
Did sea kayaking for a while

Who is your favourite superhero/cartoon character?
Homer Simpson

What unique fact do we not know about you?
I abseiled down from the top of the Europa hotel

What is the most exciting thing you have ever done?
White Water rafting down the Nile

What is your favourite food/dinner?
Slow roasted ribs

What is your favourite restaurant?
Quaker, Steak and Lube

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