Functional Skills UK Celebrates Professor Maura Sheehan’s Global Recognition
Functional Skills UK (FSUK) is proud to celebrate the international recognition of Professor Maura Sheehan, who has been named among the world’s Top 2% of Scientists (2025) in the field of Management, according to the Stanford University and Elsevier global citation rankings.
This global listing highlights researchers whose work has made a significant international impact, based on rigorous citation analysis across all disciplines. Professor Sheehan’s inclusion reflects her outstanding research in human resource management (HRM), human resource development (HRD), firm performance and innovation, organisational learning, and inclusive growth.
Driving innovation in education
As a senior academic helping lead FSUK’s Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with Edinburgh Napier University, Professor Sheehan is driving forward one of the U.K.’s most innovative projects exploring how artificial intelligence (AI) can transform the learning journeys of neurodiverse learners. Her expertise ensures that FSUK’s AI strategy is grounded in evidence, ethical practice, and measurable impact.
“We are delighted to see Maura recognised at the highest international level,” said Paul Smith, Managing Director of Functional Skills UK. “Her work combines world-class research with a deep commitment to social value, which perfectly aligns with our mission. This recognition reinforces the quality and ambition of our collaboration with Edinburgh Napier University.”
Creating a more inclusive future
Through this partnership, FSUK is developing innovative AI-enabled systems to:
- Improve engagement and success rates for neurodiverse learners
- Optimise teaching and staffing models
- Strengthen data-led decision making
- Enhance equality of access for adults re-entering education and training
Professor Sheehan’s recognition shows the strong academic foundation behind FSUK’s work to make education more inclusive, accessible, and forward-looking.
