Dr Michelle Bergin is a Research Ireland Postdoctoral Fellow in the School of Clinical Therapies at University College Cork (UCC) and lead researcher on the first national evaluation of play rights provision in Irish schools. Michelle holds a degree in Occupational Therapy from TCD and an MSc in Disability Studies from UCD with over 20 years’ experience across health, disability, community and education sectors. As a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Scholar, Michelle was awarded her PhD from Luleå University of Technology (Sweden) and UCC in 2024 for her critical examination of play in Irish schoolyards as an issue of occupational justice. Michelle has published in academic journals, presented widely in interdisciplinary conferences and contributes to international practice and research networks. Her previous research includes award-winning interagency communities of practice promoting inclusive and universal design in schools and her current interests focus on occupational justice, public spaces and human and planetary health.