Irish is an expert in storm dynamics at the coast, vegetative effects, and coastal hazard risk assessment. Notable awards for Irish's research accomplishments include ASCE Journal of Waterway, Port, Coastal, and Ocean Engineering's Outstanding Paper in 2013 (one of five), Texas A&M University's Civil Engineering Excellence in Research Award in 2010, and Department of the Army's Superior Civilian Service Award in 2008. In 2014, she was invited to join the Coastal Engineering Research Council of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), and she served as Secretary of ASCE's Coasts, Oceans, Ports, and Rivers Institute Board of Governors from 2005-2012.