Maynooth University says it's very disturbed following the attack of one of its students last night.

The 18 year old suffered a broken jaw, a fractured eye socket and lost several teeth in the attack which happened off campus.

Maynooth University says its thoughts are with the student and her family - and it's working closely with gardai.

Statement from Maynooth University

The Maynooth University community is very disturbed to hear of the serious incident involving one of our students, which happened off campus on Sunday evening. An Garda Síochána have launched an investigation.

Our immediate thoughts are with the student and her family, and we are making every support available to them at this time. The safety and wellbeing of all our students is of the utmost importance to us. The University is working closely with the Gardaí and offering advice and support services to all students concerned about this incident.

The girl, who's understood to be from Monaghan, was found on the pavement outside the Moyglare Abbey Estate at half eight, suffering from serious injuries.

Gardai are still trying to establish a motive for the attack, and are appealing for witnesses to contact them.

Pictured, Moyglare Abbey Estate, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, courtesy; Google Maps.