Alison Rafferty

Alison Rafferty is a Lecturer at Staffordshire University specializing in ceramics and design. She combines technical expertise with academic research to preserve traditional craft skills through modern technology. Her work spans industrial tableware production, underglaze tissue transfer printing, and translating ceramic design into other homeware materials.

Education:

• MA Ceramic Design, Staffordshire University
• BA (Hons) 3D Design (Ceramics), Staffordshire University

Research interests focus on the intersection of ceramics, digital innovation, and commercial applications. Her projects include industrializing digital engraving methods to protect Burleigh's tissue transfer print and exploring ceramics' evolving role in daily life—from bathroom fixtures to smartphone components. She emphasizes material versatility and societal integration.

Scientific accolades include a 2023 New Years Honours Award, 2022 Wall Tile of the Year award, and 2018 Times Higher Education Awards recognition for innovative contributions to business. Her recent media presence spans BBC documentaries, design publications, and trade show leadership.

Industry collaborations involve major brands like Ralph Lauren Home, Harrods, Sandringham Estate, and Craven Dunnill Jackfield. She has served as Design & Development Manager at Burleigh and Course Leader for MA Ceramics, bridging academic research with practical applications in tableware design, packaging, and product asset generation.