Gareth Burns

Dr. Gareth Burns is an Assistant Professor in DCU's School of Policy and Practice and Director of Professional Placement for post-primary teacher education programs. His research examines sociological dimensions of educational inequality, teacher identity formation, and transformative approaches to teacher diversity.

His work integrates critical pedagogy and equity frameworks to address systemic barriers in education, particularly focusing on underrepresented educators. Current research includes the Horizon Europe REVERS-ED project analyzing educational inequality trends across Europe, and longitudinal studies on pathways into teaching for diverse educators. As co-PI of the Turn to Teaching initiative, he evaluates strategies to diversify Ireland's teaching workforce.

Publications explore professional identity development during teacher induction, critical community praxis, and inclusive program design. His research philosophy emphasizes participatory methods that connect scholarship with educational equity practice.