McNeill researches computer science and STEM education, particularly in inequalities affecting access to education. She has also contributed to research on data integration and matching and in Semantic Web technology.[1]
After working as Assistant Professor, and then Associate Professor in Computer Sciences at Heriot Watt University, she took up the position as Reader of Computing Education at the University of Edinburgh in 2020.[3]
In 2021, McNeill was awarded the University of Edinburgh's Principal's Medal for her development of the Informatics Connect programme, helping students adapt to hybrid education.[5]