Duration:
Temporary Post-Doctoral Appointment. This is an externally funded non Grant-in-Aid contract post, the indicative duration of which is 15 months, subject to contract. A panel may be formed from which future similar vacancies may be filled; such a panel will remain active for a maximum period of 12 months.
Basic Function:
The successful applicant will carry out research that will increase our understanding of the effects of agricultural grassland management on soil biodiversity and ecosystem services, towards the promotion of efficient, resilient and sustainable grassland systems. This work will be carried out as part of the EuroGrass project, which is funded by the SFI-IRC pathway programme.
Background:
The position will be based in the Teagasc Environment, Soils and Land-use Department in Johnstown Castle, Wexford. Teagasc. Johnstown Castle is Ireland’s leading research institute on soils and environment related research, and conducts both fundamental and applied research on a wide range of subjects, including soil health, soil-plant interactions, biodiversity, nutrient efficiency, water quality, gaseous emissions, agroecology, and land use. Johnstown Castle is well equipped with laboratory, greenhouse and field facilities to support a wide and innovative research programme, as well as 190 hectares of farmland.
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 Project Leader Aaron Fox or other designated manager in conjunction with the Head of Department.
Gain first-hand insights into the Teagasc Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme from those who've lived it. Click here to explore their stories.
This section outlines the qualifications, skills, knowledge and/or experience that the successful candidate would be required to demonstrate for successful discharge of the responsibilities of the post. Applications will be assessed on how well candidates satisfy these criteria.
Essential
- PhD in Soil Biology, molecular biology or a related discipline.
- Relevant research experience not to exceed 3 years’ post-PhD
- Demonstrated research and technical expertise in soil biology and/or soil functioning.
- Evidence of research activity (publications, conference presentations, awards) and future scholarly output (working papers, research proposals etc)
- Excellent project management, analytical, report writing and data analysis skills
- An ability to collaborate with team members and PhD students to help build research knowledge and skill and to guide professional development
- Commitment to teamwork and collaborating with colleagues as per our Teagasc Together ethos
- Excellent communication skills (oral, written, presentation) with an ability to enable effective knowledge and technology transfer
- Ability to generate new ideas, unique concepts, models and solutions
Desirable
- Demonstrated research and technical expertise in microbiome analysis and bioinformatics.
- Experience in soil fauna analysis.
- Knowledge of Irish agriculture.
- Experience in setting own research agenda.
- Evidence of teamwork and collaboration with relevant partners.
- Full driving licence.
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 actively welcome applications from people from diverse backgrounds.
