UCD Post-Doc Lvl 1, UCD Agriculture & Food Science, 36 months

Organisation/Company University College Dublin Research Field Agricultural sciences " Agricultural products Agricultural sciences " Agricultural products Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Application Deadline 18 Aug 2026 - 09:14 (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

Applications are invited for a temporary post of a UCD Post-doctoral Research Fellow Level 1within UCD School of Agriculture & Food Science.

University College Dublin is seeking to appoint a highly motivated and independent postdoctoral researcher to join the TRANSFORM project funded by the EU Just Transition Fund. This large multidisciplinary research programme, which is a collaborative effort between UCD, Teagasc, MTU and two Irish SMEs, will address key challenges at the interface of food systems, sustainability, and bioeconomy innovation. TRANSFORM aims to develop innovative ingredients and processes that reduce waste while also supporting Ireland's transition to a more sustainable bioeconomy.

The successful candidate will have responsibility for coordinating and contributing to research on sensory, nutritional, techno-functional quality and the successful incorporation of upcycled ingredients into model food systems.

Salary Range: €47,273 - €51,176 Per Annum
Appointment on the above range will be dependent upon qualifications and experience.

Closing date: 12:00 noon (local Irish time) on 18 August 2026.

Applications must be submitted by the closing date and time specified. Any applications which are still in progress at the closing time of 12:00 noon (Local Irish Time) on the specified closing date will be cancelled automatically by the system. UCD are unable to accept late applications.

UCD do not require assistance from Recruitment Agencies. Any CV's submitted by Recruitment Agencies will be returned.

The PD1 position is intended for early stage researchers, either just after completion of a PhD or for someone entering a new area for the first time. If you have already completed your PD1 stage in UCD or will soon complete a PD1, or you are an external applicant whose total Postdoctoral experience, inclusive of the duration of the advertised post, would exceed 4 years, you should not apply and should refer to PD2 posts instead.

Communication and interpersonal skills, Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Strong laboratory skills, Analytical chemistry, Sensory evaluation, Product development, Food techno-functional characterisation

Eligibility criteria

Mandatory:

• PhD in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemistry, Biochemistry or a closely related discipline.
• Strong laboratory skills in at least two of the following areas: analytical chemistry (specifically volatile analysis), sensory evaluation, product development, food techno-functional characterisation (e.g., rheology, texture analysis), in vitro digestion.
• A demonstrated commitment to research and publications.
• An understanding of the operational requirements for a successful research project.
• Evidence of research activity (publications, conference presentations, awards) and future scholarly output (working papers, research proposals, and ability to outline a research project.
• Excellent Communication Skills (Oral, Written, Presentation etc).
• Excellent Organisational and Administrative skills including a proven ability to work to deadlines.
• Candidates must demonstrate an awareness of equality, diversity and inclusion agenda.

The PD1 position is intended for early-stage researchers, either just after completion of a PhD or for someone entering a new area for the first time. If you have already completed your PD1 stage in UCD or will soon complete a PD1, or you are an external applicant whose total Postdoctoral experience, inclusive of the duration of the advertised post, would exceed 4 years, you should not apply and should refer to PD2 posts instead.

• Experience in incorporating novel/upcycled ingredients into food systems.
• Demonstrated skills in scientific-writing, grant reporting and stakeholder engagement.
• Drivers licence.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
• Demonstrated ability to support and guide team members and MSc/ PhD students to help build their research skills and knowledge.
• Experience in setting own research agenda.