Irene Polycarpou

Prof. Irene Polycarpou serves as Rector of UCLan Cyprus and holds the academic title of Professor of Technology and Innovation in Education. She leads the School of Sciences while maintaining a prolific academic career spanning over 15 years in computer science education and research. Her qualifications include a PhD in Computer Science from Florida International University (2008), complemented by certifications such as the PECB CDPO and Higher Education Academy Fellowship.

Education Background

• PhD in Computer Science, Florida International University, USA (2008)
• MSc Computer Science, Florida International University, USA (2004)
• BSc Computer Science, Florida International University, USA (2002)
• Associate of Computer Science, Higher Technical Institute, Cyprus (2000)

Research Focus

Her work centers on educational technologies, including interactive multimedia, e-learning systems, and STEM education. She explores how pedagogical strategies can enhance learning outcomes in computing education, particularly for K-12 students and underrepresented groups in STEM. Recent projects include designing coding workshops for high school students and analyzing virality factors in brand videos.

Publications Trends

Her publications span educational technology, computer science pedagogy, and interdisciplinary studies like cybersecurity curriculum development and music's role in advertising virality. Over 80% of her work post-2015 focuses on innovative teaching methodologies and their impact on student engagement and industry collaboration.

Awards & Grants

• Member of €2.9M EU H2020 project SLICES-DS (2020–2022)
• Recipient of €299K for i-Sci Multi-Centre for Science and Technology (2016)
• Lead supervisor for 3 PhD/MSc students focusing on pedagogy and technology integration

Leadership & Outreach

As InSPIRE Center co-founder, she promotes interdisciplinary research and innovation. She advises Cyprus' Ministry of Education on digital technologies in education and serves on EU funding review panels. Her outreach includes organizing national coding competitions and mentoring women in computing through ACM-W Cyprus.

Labs & Teams

Leads the InSPIRE Center, focusing on interdisciplinary science promotion, and oversees research clusters in educational technology and STEM pedagogy at UCLan Cyprus.