Nazareth University

A Research Fellow position is available for a highly motivated and talented researcher with a strong interest in high power fibre lasers to work on a project within the EPSRC Programme Grant on Smart Fibre-Optic High-Power Photonics (HiPPo). The HiPPo programme (https://www.hippo-laser.co.uk/) is focused on understanding how to control the properties of fibre lasers, to go beyond the “fixed” fibre lasers that are currently used in manufacturing and towards “smart” fibre lasers that are automatically reconfigured and optimised in real-time. The aim is to revolutionise manufacturing by developing the next generation of reconfigurable, scalable, resilient, power efficient, 'smart' fibre laser tools for modern day manufacturing. Our research vision for HiPPo includes the development of new smart fibre optic technologies that can handle high-power photonics applications. This includes the design and fabrication of novel fibre optic components and systems that can withstand high optical powers and enable new functionalities over a range of operating wavelengths. The primary objective of this specific project is to explore new approaches for power scaling of fibre lasers operating in the two-micron wavelength band to the kilowatt regime motivated by the needs of applications such as industrial laser processing. The project will involve close collaboration with other members of the HiPPo project team working on a range of topics in the field of high-power lasers. Applicants should have a PhD (or equivalent professional qualifications and experience) in Physics, Engineering or a related discipline. Applications will also be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification. Applicants should have excellent experimental and analytical skills preferably with experience in the design of fibre and/or solid-state lasers together with hands-on experience operating lasers in the multi-watt power regime. Informal enquiries are welcome and should be directed to Prof Andy Clarkson (Email: wac@orc.soton.ac.uk) As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. We believe that we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society, so we are passionate about creating a working environment in which you are free to bring your whole self to work. With a generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure days we are committed to supporting our staff and students and open to a flexible working approach. Please include a copy of your CV and a cover letter, detailing how your skills and experience match the requirements of the role, in your application.

Project summary An exciting opportunity is available to join the laboratories of Dr Ali Roghanian and Dr Salah Mansour at the University of Southampton in collaboration with MiNK Therapeutics. We are seeking a collaborative and motivated scientist to work on our new funded programme developing next-generation, off-the-shelf immunotherapies for childhood cancers. This 21-month project will harness engineered cytotoxic invariant Natural Killer T (iNKT) cells for precision targeting of paediatric cancer neoantigens. Building on strong preliminary data, it combines mechanistic and translational immunology with bespoke in vivo models to define and exploit therapeutic candidates. The Research Assistant will lead studies on cytotoxic T cell mechanisms, oversee preclinical validation, and advance TCR-engineered iNKT platforms optimised for immunotherapy. The role bridges basic and translational research and suits a creative scientist with interests in tumour immunology, T cell engineering, and immunotherapy. You will join a multidisciplinary team spanning immunology, with access to advanced flow cytometry and in vivo platforms. Key responsibilities To work within the Mansour and Roghanian labs, and with collaborators at Southampton, LifeArc and MiNK Therapeutics. To design, conduct, and analyse in vitro and in vivo immunology experiments. To lead the optimisation and functional assessment of human T cells. To liaise and coordinate between project collaborators, including the industrial partner, and core facilities. To record analyses accurately and present results at group and collaborative meetings, and conferences. To contribute to dissemination of findings through publications and grant applications. Any other duties appropriate to the scope and grade of the post. Essential qualifications, experience and competencies Degree (BSc or equivalent) in biological or biomedical sciences or equivalent experience Strong practical experience with core immunological assays (e.g., FACS, ELISA, T cell assays). Proven competence in the design and execution of experiments using mouse models of cancer. Ability to manage projects to timelines, supervise junior staff, and work both independently and collaboratively. Excellent communication and presentation skills, including at conferences. Desirable Experience in engineering human T cells, viral transduction, or related approaches. Home Office Personal Licence. About us The University of Southampton offers a strong environment for translational immunology. Clinical and Experimental Sciences (CES) is a hub for infection and immunology, while the Centre for Cancer Immunology (CCI) is the UK’s first dedicated cancer immunology centre. Together, they unite expertise in T cell biology, multiomics, immunotherapy, preclinical modelling, and clinical translation, supported by an embedded Clinical Trials Unit and close links with NHS and industry partners. How to apply Applications must be submitted via the University of Southampton recruitment system by 7th June 2026. Interviews will be held soon after. Applicants should provide: A CV A cover letter outlining suitability for the role Contact details for at least two recent referees Start date: September 2026 or soon after (negotiable) This is a fixed term post initially 12 months with a possibility of extension to 21 months, subject to progress.

Department: School of Business Vacancy ID: 041923 Closing Date: 07-Jun-2026 Maynooth University is committed to a strategy in which the primary University goals of excellent research and scholarship and outstanding education are interlinked and equally valued. Funded by the Marine Institute, this project focuses on the Irish Maritime Industry roadmap to carbon neutrality by 2050. The concentration focus of the project is on implementation of compliance solutions for the industry, in consultation with stakeholders. The maritime industry makes a significant contribution to the Irish economy and as an island nation Ireland is quite dependent on this sector. Moving to ‘cleaner’ energy sources is challenging and involves the perspectives of different stakeholders including but not limited to ports, shipping companies, policy makers and technology providers. A particular issue of interest is in the role of digital-based solutions for green port initiatives, to achieve this objective. We are seeking an exceptional Research Assistant to join the project. The successful candidate will work as part of our Maritime Transport team in the Maynooth University School of Business, conducting research, carrying out administrative duties, and contributing to the department’s seminars and meetings. They will also help to seek additional sources of funding to ensure the longevity and sustainability of the project. This role is hands-on and interdisciplinary, requiring strong analytical, computational, and practical coding skills. The Research Assistant will play a key role in translating theoretical models into working software and supporting the continuous decarbonisation of the Irish Maritime Industry. Salary: Research Assistant: €33,792 p.a. (1 point - with increment) Appointments will be made in accordance with public sector pay provisions. Closing Date: 23:30hrs (local Irish time) on Sunday, 7th of June 2025. Please note all applications must be made via our Online Recruitment Portal at the following link: https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/human-resources/vacancies Applications must be submitted by the closing date and time specified above. Any applications which are still in progress at the closing time on the specified closing date will be cancelled automatically by the system. Late applications will not be accepted. Maynooth University is an equal opportunities employer The position is subject to the Statutes of the University