Meet The Team
Meet the people behind Construct Innovate. Our multidisciplinary team brings together expertise across construction, research, innovation and industry to support the development of a more modern, efficient and sustainable construction sector in Ireland.
Professor Jamie Goggins
Co-Director
As Co-Director of Construct Innovate, Jamie provides strategic leadership and oversight of the Centre’s research direction and activities, driving collaboration between industry, academia and national partners. He is Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Galway and a Chartered Engineer with over 25 years’ experience across consultancy, construction, research and advisory roles.
His research focuses on sustainable and resilient structures, sustainable construction, energy-efficient buildings, structural engineering for energy infrastructure, and innovative engineering technologies. He has led more than 80 research projects, many in collaboration with industry, and founded the Sustainable & Resilient Structures research group at the University of Galway. His work includes advanced structural systems, life-cycle assessment, large-scale structural testing, and engineering solutions for sustainable infrastructure development.
Dr. Magdalena Hajdukiewicz
Co-Director
As Co-Director of Construct Innovate, Magdalena provides strategic leadership and oversight of the Centre’s research direction and activities, driving collaboration between industry, academia and national partners. She is a Chartered Engineer and Lecturer in Energy Systems Engineering at the University of Galway, with additional roles as Programme Director and Director of Research and Innovation in the School of Engineering.
Her research focuses on sustainable and nearly zero-energy buildings, building performance modelling and monitoring, CFD simulation of indoor environments, indoor environmental quality, and smart, energy-efficient construction. She has contributed to major national and EU projects, including SFI, IRC and Horizon 2020 initiatives such as Built2Spec, Hit2Gap, GeoFIT, METABUILDING Labs and MSCA FaceINQ.
Colm McHugh
Centre Manager
As Centre Manager, Colm provides strategic and operational leadership to the team to bring tailored supports and services to both industry and academic members. His role fosters relationships across industry, academia and state organisations to ensure all partnerships get maximum value from their work with the Centre.
A Chartered Mechanical Engineer, Colm brings over 20 years of national and international construction experience spanning multiple roles across the industry. Having worked as a client representative, engineering consultant, main contractor and equipment supplier, he has developed a broad understanding of the sector and the needs of its diverse stakeholders.
Dr. Katarzyna Heffernan
Marketing and Communications Manager
Katarzyna is a Marketing and Communications Manager at Construct Innovate, leading the centre’s communications and engagement activities. With a PhD in Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering, she brings a strong blend of technical, research and marketing expertise across R&D, engineering and technical communications. She works to translate research and innovation into clear, engaging content with real industry impact.
Anmol Jaguste
Research Programme Manager
Anmol is a Research Programme Manager at Construct Innovate, supporting collaboration between industry, academia and innovation partners. A BioInnovate Fellow and R&D engineer, he leads and supports research projects while helping member companies develop new initiatives and access funding opportunities. His experience spans startups, global industry, advanced manufacturing and deep-tech innovation.
Maura Fleming
WRGP Officer
Maura coordinates the Work Ready Graduate Programme, supporting graduate recruitment, placements and onboarding. She works closely with member companies and graduates to manage placements and ensure a positive experience for all involved.
Vailancia Rebelo
Centre Administrator
Vailancia supports the Centre’s daily operations, membership and administrative processes, helping ensure efficient workflows and strong member engagement. With previous experience in the UK construction industry, she brings expertise in project coordination, stakeholder management and process improvement.
Joanna Ferenc
Marketing and Communications Officer
Joanna supports marketing and communications at Construct Innovate, creating content and engagement to connect industry and research. With a background in construction, property management and marketing, she brings experience in operations, stakeholder engagement and effective communications.
