Post Doctoral / Senior Postdoctoral Researcher in Energy Engineering - IERC

Post Doctoral / Senior Postdoctoral Researcher in Energy Engineering - IERC About the IERC

International Energy Research Centre (IERC) at Tyndall National Institute addresses climate change by researching technologies that support decarbonisation of the energy system.

Purpose of the role

Working closely with researchers in the IERC, the role focuses on leading technical integration for two initiatives addressing energy poverty, overseeing the development of a federated database and data driven toolset, and managing a framework for vulnerability specifically tailored for those most at risk of energy poverty. The position is pivotal in translating advanced data analytics and machine learning models into actionable, community led policy tools.

Key Responsibilities

• Integrated Research Leadership: Lead delivery of technical tasks and work packages across two core research initiatives, ensuring synergy between data collection, analysis, and stakeholder engagement.
• Framework Development: Oversee the creation and application of an intersectional vulnerability index framework.
• Data Strategy: Provide technical guidance on integrating multi dimensional data-including socio economic indicators and energy commodity prices-into a federated infrastructure.
• Mentorship: Act as day to day technical supervisor for PhD students assigned to these initiatives, ensuring their research aligns with broader project milestones.
• Stakeholder & Grant Management: Initiate and own research grant proposals (e.g., SEAI, EU Horizon) and manage relationships with external community and industry partners.
• Policy Impact: Translate complex data findings into energy poverty actionable policy recommendations for national funding and regulatory bodies.
• Support Research: Perform administrative work to assist the research program as required.
• Safety and Quality Excellence: Initiate, enforce and comply with UCC and Tyndall's health and safety and quality policies.
• Additional Duties: Participate in education and public outreach activities as required; carry out any other duties within the scope and level of the post.

Essential Criteria

• Academic Qualification: PhD in Energy Engineering, Data Science, Social Sciences with a strong quantitative focus, or a related multidisciplinary field.
• Research Expertise: Proven track record in at least two of the following: energy systems modelling, social science research methodologies, or advanced data analytics/machine learning.
• Technical Proficiency: Experience using data modelling, coding, and tools such as Python, R, MATLAB, GIS software, machine learning, AI, and energy system simulation tools.
• Communication: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven track record of research publications.
• Initiative: Evidence of high initiative and self starter attitude.
• Travel Flexibility: Flexibility to travel as required.
• Organisational Skills: Excellent organisation and interpersonal skills.

Desirable Criteria

• Project Management: Experience managing complex research projects involving multiple external stakeholders, national partners, and report writing.
• Methodological Knowledge: Familiarity with co-design principles and tools for project management and improvement (e.g., DMAIC process).
• Interdisciplinary Experience: Experience at the intersection of energy technology and social justice or energy poverty mitigation.
• Student Supervision: Experience supervising postgraduate (master's or PhD) students on a daily basis.
• Public Engagement: History of presentations at international conferences and evidence of public engagement or outreach activities.
• Presentation Experience: Past experience presenting research outcomes at conferences and workshops.
• Industry Engagement: Professional experience working with industry and understanding of industry needs.
• Critical Thinking: Strong analytical and problem solving skills.

What we offer

• Interdisciplinary environment with cutting edge infrastructure.
• Blended working: flexibility to work remotely and on site where appropriate.
• Comprehensive benefits: access to UCC pension, long term illness benefit, life assurance and more.
• Generous leave: competitive annual leave entitlements.
• Equity & Inclusion: Athena Swan Bronze award holder, ongoing initiatives for equity.
• Core values: ambition, collaboration, diversity, excellence, and integrity.
• Entrepreneurial spirit: innovation driven environment welcoming startup experience.
• Supportive onboarding with structured induction and mentoring.
• Vibrant culture: collaborative, people first workplace with strong community sense.

Terms of Employment

Contract Category: Full Time
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Contract Duration: Approximately 2 years
Salary range: €46,805 - €53,391 (Post Doctorate Researcher Scale) or €54,850 - €59,654 (Senior Post Doctorate Researcher Scale). Salary placement in accordance with public sector pay policy.

Application Deadline

Closing date of applications: 1pm, 29th May 2026.

Application Instructions

Please attach an up to date CV/Resume and a brief motivation letter outlining how you meet the Essential Criteria for this role.

Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.