Real-time distributed control systems, safety-critical systems, hardware/software co-design, distributed system design, embedded environments, automotive in-vehicle systems, industrial automation, and system verification.

Real-time systems, operating systems, digital systems, embedded systems design, and hardware/software co-design.

Donal Heffernan, Emeritus Associate Professor in the Department of Electronic & Computer Engineering at the University of Limerick, holds an MSc in Electronic Engineering and a PhD from the University of Salford, UK. Before academia, he gained significant industry experience in roles such as Head of Engineering at NorthStar Computers and Senior Test Planning Engineer at CASE plc, UK, along with positions at Digital Equipment Corporation, General Electric, and ESB Ireland.

At the University of Limerick, Donal established the Real-time Distributed Control (RTDC) research group, focusing on the design and analysis of embedded real-time systems, particularly in safety-critical applications such as automotive and industrial automation. He has secured substantial research funding and contributed to advancing technology in these fields.

Donal has authored over 100 technical publications, supervised numerous graduate research students, graduated 18 PhDs, and earned recognition for his research contributions. A Chartered Engineer (C.Eng. MIEI) and Senior Member of SME (USA), he is active in professional committees and technical collaborations.

Industrial Collaborations
Donal has worked closely with industry leaders such as Analog Devices, BMW, Bosch, Intel, and Bell Labs, fostering innovation through partnerships across Europe and the USA.