Deirdre Kilbane

Dr. Deirdre Kilbane is the Director of Research at the Walton Institute for Information and Communications Systems Science, Department of Computing and Mathematics, Waterford Institute of Technology (SETU). She is also an Adjunct Lecturer in the School of Physics at University College Dublin (UCD), contributing to academic teaching and research supervision. Her strategic leadership drives innovation in AgriTech, Healthcare, Smart Cities, Energy, and ICT.

Education:

• PhD in Mathematical Physics, Maynooth University (1999–2004)
• BSc in Experimental Physics, University College Dublin (1995–1999)

Her research focuses on nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, quantum physics, and molecular communications, with applications in brain implants for epilepsy, quantum key distribution, and smart agricultural systems. She leverages interdisciplinary approaches to solve real-world challenges in healthcare and communications. Her work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in health and innovation.

The most recent publications highlight a strong trend in quantum communication systems, especially satellite-based QKD, and AI-driven edge solutions for industrial IoT, including dairy processing. There is also significant focus on nanoscale biosensing for neurological conditions, reflecting her involvement in the EU Horizon 2020 PRIME project. These works span quantum engineering, AI, and biomedical applications, indicating a highly interdisciplinary research profile.

Scientific Awards and Recognition:

• Coordinator and Principal Investigator, EU Horizon 2020 FETOpen PRIME project
• Member, Science Foundation Ireland Research Centres: CONNECT and FutureNeuro
• Featured among '9 women in deep tech you should be following' (2024)
• Regular invited speaker on quantum technologies and EuroQCI

Dr. Kilbane actively advises PhD students, including Rahul Mhapsekar, and leads major research grants from Horizon Europe and SFI. Her projects often involve cross-institutional and international collaborations, particularly in quantum communication and 6G technologies. She has secured significant funding, including SETU’s largest Horizon Europe drawdown to date. Her leadership extends to public engagement, policy input, and media commentary on emerging technologies.

She is a key member of the Walton Institute’s research divisions, which focus on future networks, communications, and intelligent systems. Her team works on cutting-edge projects in quantum communication, AI for IoT, and neurotechnology, often in collaboration with CONNECT and FutureNeuro. The institute serves as a national hub for innovation in ICT and smart systems, with Dr. Kilbane playing a central role in shaping its research direction.