Having completed two degrees in Criminology and Applied Science with Forensic Investigation at the University of Teesside, Sarah studied for her PhD at the University of Leeds.  Her PhD research involved investigation of stratified gas explosions within confined, vented and complex geometries.  She has also conducted research involving dust explosions and gas & dust hybrid explosions.  She has contributed articles on her research into gas explosions, explosion venting and CFD modelling to leading periodicals in her field, and presented at conferences worldwide.

Sarah Willacy joined Burgoynes in 2006 as an investigator of fires and explosions.  Since joining she has investigated a range of incidents in both private dwellings and commercial premises.