Anna Moran

Dr. Anna Moran is a Lecturer in Design History and Material Culture at the National College of Art and Design (NCAD) in Dublin. Her research focuses on Irish design history, particularly glassmaking and craft practice, with an emphasis on Georgian Ireland and contemporary Irish craft. She holds degrees from University College Dublin, the Royal College of Art (V&A/RCA MA in History of Design), and the University of Warwick (PhD). Moran has authored and co-edited influential books, including Love Objects: Emotion, Design and Material Culture (2014), and contributes regularly to academic journals like Irish Architectural and Decorative Studies. She has held leadership roles, including Programme Leader of NCAD’s MA Design History and Material Culture (2006–2016, 2023–2024), and serves on editorial boards for journals and the Glass Society of Ireland. Moran’s work bridges academia and practice, with curatorial projects such as co-curating 'The Maker’s Hand: 50 years of the RDS Craft Awards' (2018).

Her research has been supported by grants from the Irish Georgian Society, Hunt Museum, and Thomas Dammann Memorial Trust. Moran actively engages in peer review for academic journals and has provided consultancy to institutions like the National Museum of Ireland. She has supervised postgraduate dissertations and PhDs, including those by Emma O’Toole and Liza Foley. Her recent publications (2023) explore Charles Mulvany’s role in Dublin’s glass industry and the 2023 Ireland Glass Biennale exhibition.

Moran’s academic service includes membership on the Desmond Guinness Scholarship Committee and judging panels for craft awards. Her interdisciplinary approach combines material analysis with social and economic history, offering fresh perspectives on Irish cultural heritage.