Post-Doctoral Researcher in Electrochemical, Bio, Chemical Sensors

Research Centre: School of Chemical Sciences/ National Centre for Sensor Research (NCSR)
Level on Framework: Level 1

Post duration: Fixed Term Contract – 12 months

Background and Role

Dublin City University (www.dcu.ie) is a research-intensive, globally-engaged, dynamic institution that is distinguished both by the quality and impact of its graduates and by its focus on the translation of knowledge into societal and economic benefit. Through its mission to transform lives and societies through education, research and innovation, DCU acts as an agent of social, cultural and economic progress. DCU is Ireland’s fastest growing university, and now hosts more than 17,000 students across its three academic campuses: DCU Glasnevin Campus, DCU St Patrick’s Campus and DCU All Hallows campus.

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.

DCU has a strong track record in attracting both Irish and European Union research funding under Horizon 2020 (and all previous Framework Programmes), Marie Curie Actions and Erasmus. We offer a dynamic and internationally-focused environment in which you can advance your academic career.

We are seeking a Post-Doctoral Fellow with a PhD in electroanalytical chemistry with an emphasis on the detection of biomarkers of health and disease in minimally invasive samples such as perspiration, saliva and urine. Experience in electrochemistry and practical applications is essential. Experience in sensor development, (electro)materials, nanomaterials, carbon-based sensors, and electrochemical devices design are particularly sought. Candidates with experience of working with wearable devices, microfluidics and wireless electrochemistry are an advantage.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

Reporting to his/her Principal Investigator the Research Fellow will:

• Conduct a specified programme of research under the supervision and direction of the Principal Investigator.
• Engage in the dissemination of the results of the research in which he/she is engaged with the assistance of and under the supervision of the Principal Investigator. This may include publication in high quality peer reviewed journals and the delivery of conference papers.
• Assist the broader team of researchers comprising summer interns, undergraduate students, early-stage PhD students and Postdoctoral researchers.
• Protect inventions and assist in the filing of patent applications under the guidance of the Principal Investigator.
• Engage in appropriate training and development opportunities as required by the Principal Investigator, the School, or the University.
• Engage in teaching and teaching support under the direction of the Principal Investigator.
• Liaise with both internal and external stakeholders including industry and academic partners/collaborators, including travel where necessary.
• Assist in identifying and developing future research and funding initiatives.
• Identify and carry out activities to promote the project to primary school students, general public and other stakeholders.
• Carry out administrative work associated with the programme of research as necessary.
• Active participation in School/Centre activities, such as industry showcases and reviews.

Mandatory Training

Post holders will be required to undertake the following mandatory compliance training: GDPR, IP, and Health and Safety training. Other training may need to be undertaken when required.

Minimum Criteria

Applicants must have a PhD in Electroanalytical Chemistry, sensor development and characterisation or related subject. Applicants should have a minimum of 1 year of relevant postdoctoral research experience or equivalent. In addition, it is desirable that applicants have a good knowledge in one or more of the following areas: (bio)chemical sensing, wearable sensors, biomarker detection in minimally invasive samples, microfluidics, assay development, electrochemical sensors manufacture.

Salary*: € 37,874 - €41,373

*Appointment will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and will be made on the appropriate point of the salary scale, in line with current Government pay policy.

Closing date: 7 February 2020

Candidates will be assessed on the following competencies:

Discipline knowledge and Research skills – Demonstrates the ability to design and implement part of a programme of research (for example by using critical thinking and the application of relevant research methodologies).

Understanding the Research Environment – Demonstrates a thorough knowledge of the internationally and the ability to contribute research environment both nationally and substantially to grant applications.

Communicating Research – Demonstrates the ability to present their research effectively to the research community and wider society (for example by publishing their research in high quality peer reviewed journals) and the ability to teach and tutor students.

Managing & Leadership skills – highly competent in managing research projects including the management and supervision of postgraduates and/or junior research staff.

Dublin City University is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to promoting gender equality reflected in its attainment of the Athena SWAN Bronze Award. Information on a range of university policies aimed at creating a supportive and flexible work environment are available at www4.dcu.ie/policies/policy-starter-packs.shtml.