Duration:
Temporary externally funded non Grant-in-Aid contract post, the indicative duration of which is 36 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 Agricultural Economics and Farm Surveys Department of Teagasc is seeking a highly motivated and skilled data technologist to contribute to a cutting-edge research project, MEASURE (Modelling Estimates for Agricultural Sustainability Using Real Evidence), recently funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. This position offers a unique opportunity to identify and address key data and modelling gaps relating to the sustainability of Irish agriculture and to strengthen the capacity of the Teagasc National Farm Survey (NFS) to provide nationally representative evidence of farm level sustainability across systems. The role will include scoping out the feasibility of, and the piloting of new data collection, integrating data from external sources and developing new data visualisation techniques. A key element of the role will be the automation of required data processes to ensure replicability beyond the lifetime of the project. This is a multi-faceted role requiring project management, data analysis and communication skills. The successful candidate will work closely with the project team, NFS support staff, relevant stakeholders, and internal and external data providers to ensure high quality and efficient data processes supporting sustainability metrics and policy analysis.
Job Objectives:
* Data Collection and Integration
* Enhance the scope and depth of data collected by the Teagasc National Farm Survey (NFS), particularly for currently underrepresented farm systems, informed by the literature and through engagement with stakeholders.
* Explore the feasibility and trial new methods for efficient and digitalised farm data collection in collaboration with farmers, advisors, and data collectors through dedicated pilot case studies to improve economic, environmental and social sustainability measurement.
* Investigate and operationalise the integration of datasets from sources external to the NFS (e.g., administrative, physical, spatial data) to complement existing farm data resources in conjunction with data providers.
* Data Management
* Develop processes for ensuring data interoperability and security while adhering to GDPR compliance and other required protocols.
* Implement systems for anonymising and managing confidential farm data.
* Develop and automate the data infrastructure, integration, storage and reporting processes to ensure maximum impact for the NFS beyond the lifetime of the project.
* Establish protocols for long-term data storage and accessibility for future research needs.
* Preparation of documentation around indicators development and methodology.
* Data Visualisation and Dissemination
* Lead the design and development of interactive sustainability dashboards and data infographics using tools like Microsoft Power BI, Canva, Visme etc.
* Collaborate with stakeholders to co-design dashboards tailored to farmers, policymakers, and advisors, ensuring usability and relevance.
* Improve the dissemination and communication of NFS data to wider stakeholders.
* Stakeholder Engagement and Knowledge Exchange
* Assist in facilitating and organising co-design workshops and focus groups to align data tools with user needs.
* Support training and knowledge transfer activities related to data usage, publication and interpretation.
* Innovation and Research Contributions
* Evaluate emerging technologies for agricultural data collection, analysis and visualisation.
* Document findings and contribute to project publications, presentations, and general dissemination activities.
* Contribute to the teamwork and team spirit in the MEASURE project team and the Rural Economy Development Programme more broadly, to foster further collaboration and integration.
* Develop and maintain active collaborative contacts with other national and international research organisations and with other Programmes in Teagasc.
* Actively participate in the annual business planning and Performance Management Development System (PMDS) process.
* To assist Teagasc in meeting the commitments of the Quality Customer Service Charter and Action Plan.
* Fully co-operate with the provisions made for ensuring the health, safety and welfare of themselves, fellow staff and non-Teagasc staff and co-operate with management in enabling Teagasc to comply with legal obligations. This includes full compliance with the responsibilities outlined in the Safety Statement.
* Any other duties as may be assigned from time to time.
Skills Requirement:
* Qualifications:
* A Level 8 degree (as recognised on the National Framework of Qualifications or equivalent), in Data Science, Computer Science, Information Technology, Agricultural Science, Business, Economics or related discipline.
* Practical experience in Data Science, Computer Science, Information Technology. Knowledge of Irish Agriculture.
Skills:
* Proficiency in data analysis, data integration tools and platforms.
* Experience with data visualisation software.
* Knowledge of database management, data security, and GDPR compliance.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
* Effective communication skills for stakeholder engagement, knowledge exchange and research dissemination.
* Familiarity with agricultural systems, sustainability metrics, or environmental data.
* Skills in programming languages such as Python, R, or SQL for data processing.
* Ability to initiate and lead research.
* Proven record of research communication.
Knowledge:
* Candidates should have aptitude for research and good knowledge of data analysis.
* Computer Literate with proficiency in numerous software.
* Knowledge of the EU agricultural sector and related sustainability policy.
Behavioural Competencies:
* Ability to work as part of a team, including consulting, collaborating and building relationships with key stakeholders.
* Strives for high quality of work and demonstrates commitment to the programme.
* Ability to communicate effectively to enable knowledge and technology transfer.
* Excellent interpersonal skills, proficiency in communicating with a wide range of stakeholders, i.e. national and international scientists, policy makers, industry, farmers.
* Ability to work independently, and to meet self-imposed milestones and deliverables.
* A proactive, solutions-focused approach to work.
* Ability to set clear standards and have a quality customer service focus.
Other:
As this role will involve driving vehicles, candidates must satisfy and continue to satisfy during employment with Teagasc, legal requirements to drive a car unaccompanied on Irish public roads.
Why Join Us?
* 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 our organisation.
* We are committed to the principles of 'Equal Opportunities, No Barriers and Active Inclusion'. We actively welcome applications from people from diverse backgrounds.
* Be part of a forward thinking organisation committed to positive change.
* Work in a collaborative environment that values your unique perspective.
* Drive initiatives that make a lasting impact on workplace culture.
Join Teagasc in creating a workplace where everyone thrives and diversity is celebrated.
#If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the recruitment process please contact a member of our Recruitment Team at recruit@teagasc.ie
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