Dr Gallagher has worked in scientific roles in a number of different sectors. She is an advocate for sustainability. Shirley has regulatory knowledge, project management skills with a strong focus on continuous improvement in a challenging, customer-focused environment. She is a trained auditor, having worked as both an internal and external auditor for UK and Irish governments and private industry to HPRA and FDA regulations (GxP). She has expertise to ISO standards in products, energy, environmental, quality, water and health and safety. She is Chair of Cork Environmental Forum, Sustainability Officer in Glanmire Chamber of Commerce, a Climate Reality Leader and a Toastmaster.