The death has been announced of Professor Rory O'Connor, head of the DCU School of Computing, who died suddenly while travelling abroad. Colleagues have been expressing their shock at the news, describing him as a gifted and enthusiastic researcher, a kind and generous colleague and a great friend. Prof O’Connor was a senior researcher with Lero (the Irish Software Research Centre) and head of delegation for Ireland to a number of international standardisation bodies. Responding to news of Prof O'Connor’s passing, DCU president Prof Brian MacCraith said: “I was deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden death of Professor Rory O'Connor. "His passing is a great loss for his colleagues, students and friends. Rory made a huge contribution to our university and will be remembered as an outstanding academic and an excellent colleague. "On behalf of the university community, I wish to convey deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues at this sad time.”