Naomi Dickson

I am first year PhD researcher in the School of Applied Social and Policy Sciences at Ulster University, Belfast. This study is in response to empirical evidence which suggests there has been a significant increase in the injection of cocaine in Northern Ireland combined with a lack of academic literature surrounding this particularly dangerous method of administering cocaine. The overall aim of the study is to explore the factors influencing the injection use of cocaine, and will explore a range of topics including drug use patterns, motivations for use, harms and benefits, drug policy and treatment services.

• Outside of my studies, I am an extremely active individual who enjoys travelling and sports. I have travelled to many different, but to date my most rewarding experience was backpacking eleven countries in Europe by train over the course of one month. This trip required extensive planning of travel routes and itineraries, dilligence, and money management at a time when I was still a student. However, this trip taught me the value of experience and afforded me the opportunity to immerse myself in a range of different cultures. Hockey is my preferred sport, and I have been a member of Newry Olympic Hockey Club since 2016, where I was awarded Young Player of the Year in 2018. Hockey has enabled me to develop a wider skill base which can be employed in the professional environment including teamwork, resillience, and leadership skills.

Dr Jonny Byrne 

Senior Lecturer in Criminology and Criminal Justice, Ulster University 

York Street, Belfast, BT15 1ED

j.byrne1@ulster.ac.uk

Dr Julie Harris

Lecturer in Criminology and Criminal Justice , Ulster University 

York Street, Belfast, BT15 1ED

j.harris@ulster.ac.uk