Ciara joined Urban Foresight in August 2022 as a Graduate Project Specialist after obtaining a First-Class Honours Degree in BA Geography from Newcastle University. Ciara has a strong interest in understanding how place-based solutions can shape economies and generate economic growth. This led her to explore the evolving role of market towns within rural economies in her dissertation. Through her studies, Ciara used a range of research methods and became particularly skilled in interviewing and engaging local authorities, landowners, businesses, and wider stakeholders.

During her time at Newcastle University, Ciara gained experience in planning at a development consultancy and undertook internships at both an engineering consultancy and a property management company. Ciara is excited to combine the theoretical knowledge of economic development she gained whilst at university with her professional experience.