Undergrads & postgrads studying Rehab & Athletic Therapy, Sport Science S+C & Physiology & Health Sci
The Department of Science and Health at the South East Technological University Carlow has developed a dynamic suite of undergraduate programmes in physiology & health, sport rehabilitation & athletic therapy, bioscience, biopharmaceuticals, bioforensics, pharmacy technician studies, environmental, analytical & forensic science.
This year’s ISESA conference had a strong representation from SETU Staff, Alumni and current PhD Candidates. The conference opened with a well executed keynote by Nick Tiller on Academic integrity. The following two days saw a range of topics delivered by our researchers across the conference.
Starting our 2026 Poster Presentation review by checking out the fantastic work from our postgraduates
Well done to everyone who took part — the standard was outstanding! Congratulations also to our two winners
12/05/2026
My name is Elisabetta Brigo, and I am a PhD researcher in the Department of Health and Sport Science at South East Technological University (SETU), Carlow.
I am currently conducting a randomised controlled trial investigating two approaches for plantar fasciopathy (heel pain): a barefoot walking programme and a standardised conservative care programme. The study has received ethical approval from the SETU Research Ethics Committee (SETU/REC/25/26/050).
I am currently seeking participants who may be eligible for inclusion in this study.
Who can take part
Adults aged 18–70 years with:
* Heel pain lasting more than 4 weeks
* First-step pain in the morning or after rest
* Ability to walk independently without aids
What participation involves
Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two 12-week home-based programmes:
* Barefoot walking programme, or
* Structured stretching and strengthening programme
Both groups will also receive education on plantar fasciopathy, load management, and pain management strategies. The study includes brief weekly questionnaires and three follow-up surveys over 6 months post-intervention.
Safety and ethics
Both interventions are low-cost and safe. Participation is voluntary, and participants may withdraw at any time without consequence.
Contact
Elisabetta Brigo
PhD Researcher, SETU Carlow
[email protected]
11/05/2026
A recent visit for athletic performance testing for some of Kilkenny City Harriers’ older juvenile athletes. There was power, speed, strength and lots of interesting data, led by Marcus Lawler (athletic development officer), Jenny Wallace (DHSS) and Athletic Therapy year 3 and 4 students
08/05/2026
sad farewell to our incredible Sports Rehabilitation intern, Leah Molloy.
Leah has worked tirelessly all year with our sports clubs, making sure players were match fit, supported, and ready to perform at their best. Her dedication, professionalism, and positive attitude made a huge impact across all teams.
We are so grateful for all her hard work and commitment throughout the year and wish her every success in the future. You’ll be greatly missed by everyone involved in our clubs!
Thank you, Leah!
28/04/2026
Congratulations to 4th Year Athletic Therapy student Dan O’Boyle on completing his placement with the Warrington Wolves in Super League. We are all very proud of you.”
24/04/2026
Today we said a fond farewell to our Sports Science intern, Ciara Amond.
During her time with us, Ciara brought incredible energy and a genuine passion for helping others to her day to day work and her exercise classes, bringing positivity to the team each day, she made a real impact that won’t be forgotten anytime soon.
It’s been a pleasure having her as part of the team, and we’ve no doubt she has a bright future ahead.
Wishing you all the very best in your next chapter, Ciara — we’ll be cheering you on every step of the way!
