Sara Hannafin

Sara Hannafin is a Lecturer in Geography and Pedagogy at the School of History and Geography, University of Limerick. She joined UL in 2021 and contributes to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching in migration studies, human geography, and pedagogy. Her research focuses on Irish-British migrations, identity, and emotional connections to place, particularly among second-generation Irish individuals and return migrants.

• PhD in Geography, University of Galway
• MA in Irish Studies, University of Galway
• Graduate Diploma in Teaching, Learning & Scholarship
• BA in Geography, University of Wales
• PGCE in Geography, University of Bristol

Her research explores the impacts of migration on identity, belonging, and emotional engagement with place. Recent work examines how pandemic-related travel restrictions affected Irish and British communities across borders. She also investigates return migration dynamics and the role of education in addressing Sustainable Development Goals through geographic frameworks.

Hannafin’s recent publications (2024) focus on teaching SDG 9 in schools and language’s role in diaspora identity. Earlier works (2016) analyze return migration narratives and political discourses around belonging. Themes include migration policy, emotional geography, and transnational education strategies.

She participates actively in academic conferences and networks, including IMISCOE and the Oral History Network of Ireland. Her teaching philosophy integrates geography education with SDG advocacy, emphasizing hope, respect, empathy, and advocacy in youth curricula. Hannafin’s expertise aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in education and infrastructure development.