Go Beyond Learning: How TU Dublin Helped Annamae Muldowney Forge a Global Career
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At TU Dublin, postgraduate studies are about more than just education; they’re about transformation. Annamae Muldowney’s journey through the Master of Architecture (MArch) programme delivered by the School of Architecture, Building and Environment exemplifies how TU Dublin helps students push boundaries, think beyond conventional career paths, and make a real impact in their fields.
Annamae’s decision to pursue her postgraduate studies at TU Dublin was rooted in the university’s reputation for excellence in architecture and its supportive, close-knit community.
“Having previously attended a larger university with less student-lecturer interaction, I found TU Dublin’s personalised approach refreshing and invaluable. The tight academic network fostered an environment where I felt supported and empowered to explore new directions in my career.”
Before her master’s, Annamae saw a traditional path ahead in architecture. However, TU Dublin’s flexible and forward-thinking programme opened new doors, allowing her to merge her interests in social inclusion and technology. This intersection of disciplines became a defining feature of her work, leading her to exciting global opportunities she had never imagined.
"Through my MArch studies, I refined my research skills, which enabled me to take on an influential role at the Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) at University College London. Here, my work took me all over the world—from Colombia to Kenya—where I led co-design workshops in informal settlements and engaged with world leaders at global summits. TU Dublin’s emphasis on innovation and critical thinking played a key role in preparing me for these high-impact engagements.”
Annamae credits TU Dublin’s faculty for playing a crucial role in her development. She highlights the collective support of her lecturers, who not only provided guidance during her studies but also continued to share opportunities with her after graduation. One lecturer, her thesis supervisor, stood out for encouraging new ways of thinking and working, ultimately becoming her PhD supervisor.
Completing her master's during the COVID-19 pandemic was challenging, but the commitment of TU Dublin’s faculty to go above and beyond made a significant difference. Even after graduation, when Annamae felt uncertain about where to find research opportunities, her lecturers continued to support her by sharing job openings and career advice. It was this ongoing encouragement that led her to apply for the position at GDI Hub.
Annamae’s journey has now come full circle. She has returned to TU Dublin as a PhD researcher, thanks to the prestigious Arise scholarship. Her doctoral research delves into the intersections of inclusive design and AI-powered generative and computational design tools, another example of how TU Dublin fosters ground-breaking work that extends beyond traditional disciplines.
Reflecting on her experience, Annamae encourages current and prospective postgraduate students to be brave and embrace the unknown. “Postgraduate studies are about pushing boundaries and thinking outside the box,” she advises. “Don’t be held back by the confines of what you think your discipline should be; challenge it!”
Looking back, the most valuable aspect of Annamae’s time at TU Dublin was the sense of community. “Having that school base with friendly faces who knew your name and cared about your work made all the difference,” she shares.
Annamae’s story is a testament to how TU Dublin doesn’t just educate, but inspires students to go beyond learning and redefine what’s possible in their careers. Whether it’s pioneering new research, driving global impact, or returning to mentor the next generation, TU Dublin’s postgraduates are making their mark on the world.
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