Research Centre School of Chemical Sciences
Post title Postdoctoral Researcher in Organic/Polymer Chemistry
Level on Framework Level 1
Post duration Up to 11 Months fixed term contract
Dublin City University
Dublin City University www.DCU.ie is a young, ambitious and vibrant University, with a mission ‘to transform lives and societies through education, research, innovation and engagement’. Known as Ireland’s ‘University of Enterprise and Transformation’, it is committed to the development of talent, and the discovery and translation of knowledge that advances society and the economy. DCU is the Sunday Times Irish University of the Year 2021.
The University is based on three academic campuses in the Glasnevin-Drumcondra region of north Dublin. It currently has more than 18,000 students enrolled across five faculties – Science and Health, DCU Business School, Computing and Engineering, Humanities and Social Sciences and DCU Institute of Education. DCU is committed to excellence across all its activities. This is demonstrated by its world-class research initiatives, its cutting-edge approach to teaching and learning, its focus on creating a transformative student experience, and its positive social and economic impact. This exceptional commitment on the part of its staff and students has led to DCU’s ranking among the top 2% of universities globally. It also consistently features in the world’s Top 100 Young Universities (currently in QS Top 70 Under 50, Times Higher Top 150 Under 100).
DCU is placed 84th in the world, in the Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings – measuring higher education institutions’ contributions towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Over the past decade, DCU has also been the leading Irish university in the area of technology transfer, as reflected by licensing of intellectual property.
As part of this role the researcher will be required to participate in the DCU Research Career Framework. This framework is designed to provide significant professional development opportunities to Researchers and offer the best opportunities in terms of a wider career path.
Background & Role
The School of Chemical Sciences at Dublin City University invites applications for a senior postdoctoral researcher in polymer synthesis chemistry to work on a collaborative project on the development of compositable polymers and polymer networks. The position is available from December 2022 with the possibility of an extension dependant on funding available and ongoing requirements for the project.
The goal of this specific project is to develop a method for isolating monomer molecules from waste material and using these to produce high molecular weight polymers. The project will involve collaboration with the Schools of Physical Sciences, Biotechnology, and Nursing, Psychotherapy and Community Health in Dublin City University.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
Reporting to their Principal Investigator the Postdoctoral Researcher will
- Conduct a specified programme of research under the supervision and direction of the Principal Investigator, with a specific focus on the design and execution of synthetic polymer processes
- Engage in the dissemination of the results of the research in which he/she is engaged with the support of and under the supervision of the Principal Investigator, with a specific focus on completing funding reports and preparing presentations and material for funding reviews
- Supervise and assist undergraduate and postgraduate students working in this area with their research
- Liaise with both internal and external stakeholders including industry and academic partners/collaborators
- Carry out administrative work associated with the programme of research as necessary, including supporting the Principal Investigator in tendering for equipment and instruments required for the project
Minimum Criteria
Applicants should have a PhD in organic/polymer synthesis. Applicants should be able to demonstrate their ability to work in collaborative projects and possess excellent communication skills.
Candidates will be assessed on the following competencies:
Discipline knowledge and Research skills – Demonstrates knowledge of polymer chemistry and the ability to conduct a specific programme of research within that discipline
Understanding the Research Environment – Demonstrates an awareness of the research environment (for example national funding bodies) and the ability to contribute to grant applications and project funding reviews
Communicating Research – Demonstrates the ability to communicate their research with their peers, the wider research community, and review panels
Managing & Leadership skills - Demonstrates the potential to manage and deliver on a research project including the supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate students
Essential Training
The post holder will be required to undertake the following essential compliance training: Orientation, Health and Safety and Intellectual Property and Data Protection training. Other training may need to be undertaken when required.