UCD Post-doctoral Research Fellow Level 1

Applications are invited for a Temporary post of a UCD Post-doctoral Research Fellow Level 1 within UCD School of Chemistry

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research position as a part of the SFI-Defence organization innovation challenge entitled Robust and Reusable Electrochemical DNA Biosensors for Point Of Need Deployment. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary team that are developing a novel biosensor technology for use in screening food and water at food preparation sites such as production/processing factories and kitchens.

For this project, the successful candidate will be expected to take a leading role in the development of a new type of electrochemical sensor for the detection of DNA indicative of the presence of potentially harmful food-borne pathogens. To this end, you will develop new surface modification chemistries for attaching nucleic acids to the electrode surfaces, and subsequently perform electrochemical measurements with the goal of food pathogen DNA detection and identification. The project provides an exciting opportunity to join a multi-disciplinary team working at the electrochemistry and microbiology interface, and the precise pathogens to be detected, as well as the selection of the sample matrices in which the detection technology will be demonstrated, is to be carried out in conjunction with the UCD Centre for Food Safety, Irish Defence Forces, and other interested stakeholders.

Given the interdisciplinary nature of the post, we are looking for a flexible and strongly motivated candidate to interact with and learn new ideas and approaches across multiple disciplines. In selecting candidates, this quality may be more significant than the candidate's specific technical background.

This is a research focused role, where you will conduct a specified programme of research supported by research training and development under the supervision and direction of a Principal Investigator.

The primary purpose of the role is to further develop your research skills and competences, including the processes of publication in peer-reviewed academic publications, the development of funding proposals, the mentorship of graduate students along with the opportunity to develop your skills in research led teaching.

In addition to the Principal Duties and Responsibilities listed below, the successful candidate will also carry out the following duties specific to this project:

Liaise with colleagues in the UCD Centre for Food Safety* as appropriate.

* Preparation of reports and technical documents for funding bodies.

* Assistance in preparing proposals to national and international funders for continuation and progression of the project.

Salary: €36,399 - €45,610 per annum

Appointment on the above range will be dependent on qualifications and experience

Closing date: 17:00hrs (local Irish time) on 16th June 2022

Applications must be submitted by the closing date and time specified. Any applications which are still in progress at the closing time of 17:00hrs (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.

Prior to application, further information (including application procedure) should be obtained from the Work at UCD website: https://www.ucd.ie/workatucd/jobs/ .