Basic Function:
We are seeking to recruit a Post-Doctoral Researcher for an exciting research project. This post offers an excellent opportunity to join an interdisciplinary and inter-institutional collaboration – between Teagasc and Maynooth University – investigating the engagement levels of the farming sector in renewable energy and bioeconomy projects. This is a funded research project, and the Post-doctoral Researcher will be based in the Rural Economy and Development Programme at Teagasc, Mellows campus, Athenry.
Background:
A key challenge facing the agricultural sector is the adaption of farming practices to develop a sustainable food supply in an environmentally sustainable manner. Farmers are faced with the challenge of balancing economic and environmental sustainability as many Irish farming enterprises are economically vulnerable. The agricultural industry needs to reduce carbon emissions in a way that ensures the economic sustainability of farm businesses. Therefore, it is imperative that farmers embrace advancements in renewable energy and other bioeconomy initiatives. However, engagement levels of the farming sector have been low to date and a deeper understanding of this issue is required.
In this context, this project will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of current engagement levels by the farming sector with renewable energy and bioeconomy projects, through an extensive stakeholder engagement process. This will include an identification of the drivers and barriers to engagement in such projects, with a specific focus placed on assessing the impact on farmers from a financial perspective.
This project will also identify the education/skills/training/supports required by farmers to engage in the transition to renewable energy sources. In this respect an educational programme (sector specific/targeted) will be developed to transfer knowledge to farmers on renewable energy to enhance their green skills. This educational programme will contribute to increasing farmer participation in renewable energy projects and the findings developed will contribute to and enhance policy recommendations for increasing farmer participation
Background to Teagasc Post-Doctoral Programme:
The Teagasc post-doctoral programme provides training and development opportunities for early career scientists that enhances their experience of learning and equips them with the necessary skills for the next stage of their chosen career in research. Appointees to a Teagasc Post-Doctoral Fellowship will be required to undertake a Level 9 Professional Diploma in Researcher Development delivered by University College Dublin (UCD).
This professional diploma is a flexible, modular programme which embraces a blended learning approach to align with the Post-Doctoral Fellow's role in Teagasc. It is designed to develop competencies and transferable skills in research, professionalism, communication and career development. The majority of the programme is delivered online with the remaining elements delivered in-person at Teagasc locations. This blended approach affords the Post-Doctoral Fellow the opportunity to meet and network with other Teagasc colleagues. During the course of the diploma Post-Doctoral Fellows will have access to a full range of supports including the UCD library, writing centre and careers centre.
This is a research focused training role, the primary purpose of which is to provide early career scientists with the opportunity to develop their research skills and competencies.
The Post-Doctoral Fellow will, while working in conjunction with senior research staff, gain insight and experience into a variety of areas including the processes of project and budgetary management, publishing in peer-reviewed academic journals, writing grant applications, and attracting external funding; the development of active collaboration with relevant national and international research communities; the development of communication and presentation skills, leadership and management skills, and overall career development.
Modules will be conducted under the supervision and direction of the Anne Kinsella or other designated manager in conjunction with the Head of Department.
A detailed job specification can be accessed on our website at
www.teagasc.ie/opportunitiesTo apply interested applicants are required to set up their profile on TOPJobs (
https://topjobs-teagasc.thehirelab.com/Account/WizzkiLogin), the Teagasc recruitment portal.
Find out more about our recruitment process on
https://www.teagasc.ie/about/opportunities/the-recruitment-process/ Gender, Diversity and Inclusion
At all levels in Teagasc, we believe in growing and keeping alive an open, diverse and inclusive workplace which is respectful to all and nurtures different perspectives, for the benefit of all in the organisation.
We are committed to the principles of ‘Equal Opportunities, No Barriers, Active Inclusion’.
We welcome actively welcome applications from people from diverse backgrounds.
Closing Time/Date: Tuesday 30th April 2024 @ 12:00
Salary Range: Post Doc (Level 1) with a Salary Scale of €42,206 to €46,447
Duration: 8 Months
Location: Rural Economy and Development Centre, Teagasc, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co Galway, H65 R718
