I-C3 Innovation Funding Manager, NovaUCD, Until 31 October 2029

Organisation/Company University College Dublin Research Field Economics " Business economics Economics " Business economics Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Application Deadline 1 Oct 2026 - 02:19 (UTC) Country Ireland Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Are you a high-energy funding strategist ready to make a lasting impact on the global deep-tech stage? Based at NovaUCD, recognized as one of Europe's leading and most vibrant startup hubs, the I-C3 Grant Access Manager is a mission-critical role at the heart of Ireland's Chips Competence Centre (I-C3). This is a unique opportunity to be a key architect of the Irish semiconductor ecosystem. You will work alongside visionary founders and researchers to unlock the vital, non-dilutive capital required to transform breakthrough microelectronics startups into global market leaders.

As a core member of the I-C3 team, you will be the catalyst that bridges the gap between deep-tech innovation and complex funding landscapes. By securing the resources necessary for scaling, you will play a direct role in launching the Irish semiconductor unicorns of the next decade. Your work will strengthen Ireland's and Europe's strategic autonomy in the microelectronics sector, ensuring our most promising companies have the financial runway to compete and win on a global scale.

The I-C3 project is a multi-partner consortium-including UCD, Tyndall National Institute, MCCI, and MIDAS Ireland-dedicated to accelerating the scale-up of the Irish semiconductor sector. Working in tandem with the I-C3 Venture Manager, you will drive a dual-track funding pipeline (Venture + Grant), providing "hands-on" expertise to at least 40 high-potential clients. If you are driven by the prospect of launching and scaling the next wave of deep-tech startups, this is the role for you.

I-C3: Ireland's Chips Competence Centre The I-C3 project is Ireland's dedicated strategic initiative to accelerate the scaling of the national semiconductor sector. Established under the European Chips Act, I-C3 is a high-profile consortium led by UCD, Tyndall National Institute, MCCI, and MIDAS Ireland. The Centre serves as a central gateway for startups and SMEs, providing them with essential access to advanced design platforms, pilot lines, technical expertise, and the funding strategies required to secure Ireland's leadership in the global microelectronics value chain.

Particular to this position:

• The post is a senior commercial role, and therefore a degree of travel (national and international) will be required for stakeholder engagement, grant agency meetings, and EU consortium events.
• A flexible working approach is necessary to align with the schedules of high-growth founders and international investors.

Salary: €70,000 - €100,000 Per Annum
Appointment on the above range will be dependent upon qualifications and experience.

Closing date: 12:00 noon (local Irish time) on 01 October 2026.

Grant Strategy, Proposal Writing, Knowledge of EU, National Funding Landscapes, Stakeholder Management, Understanding Funding Pipelines, Startup and SME Advisory, Mentoring, Project, Pipeline Management

Additional Information Eligibility criteria Mandatory:

• A primary degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., Business, Science, or Engineering).
• Significant experience in identifying and securing public funding/grants at a national (e.g., Enterprise Ireland, DTIF) and/or European level (e.g., Horizon Europe, EIC).
• Proven ability to work directly with early-stage deep-tech companies or SMEs to develop complex technical and commercial proposals.
• Strong understanding of the research and innovation funding landscape in Ireland and the EU.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to build networks with government agencies and industry stakeholders.
• Candidates must demonstrate how they can positively contribute to fostering an inclusive environment and a level of awareness of equality, diversity and inclusion.
• A relevant postgraduate qualification (NFQ Level 9/ Master's Degree).
• Direct experience working within or extensively engaging with the semiconductor or microelectronics industry.
• Experience in a university-affiliated accelerator, startup incubator, or technology transfer office.
• Knowledge of the European Chips Act and the specific funding mechanisms of the Chips Joint Undertaking (JU).