JAMES O’SULLIVAN is the founder and lead researcher at Lansdowne Research. He currently holds a senior lectureship at University College Cork, having previously held research and teaching appointments in Ireland, the UK, and the United States. His work spans data-driven analysis, policy development and the socio-cultural impacts of emerging technologies, with a particular focus on how people, language, and institutions adapt to computational change.

Dr O’Sullivan has led major national and international research projects, including EU-funded initiatives, and has published widely on digital systems, algorithmic systems and contemporary culture. His experience ranges from large-scale evaluations to sectoral studies in higher education, cultural institutions, and public-facing organisations.

During his tenure as Policy Advisor for Artificial Intelligence at the Higher Education Authority, Dr O’Sullivan played a central role in shaping national approaches to emerging technologies, specifically, generative AI, in Irish higher education. His policy work has included sector-wide consultations, the development of national guidelines on generative AI, and collaborative initiatives that bring together institutional leaders, academic staff and technical specialists to address issues of integrity, governance, and strategic adoption. Through this work, he has helped articulate practical, evidence-led pathways for institutions navigating rapid technological change.

While he directs the work of Lansdowne Research, he collaborates with a network of academic and professional experts as required, ensuring that each project is matched with the right disciplinary and methodological expertise.

james@lansdowneresearch.com