PhD Position in Electrochemical Methane Sensing and Conversion
Contract: Full Time/Fixed Term
This Research Ireland funded Vistamilk Centre programme at Tyndall National Institute and University College Cork is offering a PhD position in methane sensing and conversion. The research will involve a collaboration with the Materials Modelling for Devices Group who will specify the catalyst materials to be investigated and the Wireless Sensor Networks Group who will develop the prototype wireless sensor device.
About Us
Tyndall is a leading European research centre in integrated ICT (Information and Communications Technology) materials, devices and systems. It is one of Ireland’s five National Labs, specialising in both electronics and photonics. Tyndall works with industry and academia to transform research into products in its core market areas of electronics, communications, energy, health, agri-tech & the environment. With a network of over 200 industry partners and customers worldwide, they are focused on delivering human and economic impact from excellence in research. A research flagship of University College Cork, Tyndall is home to a research community of 600 people of 52 nationalities. www.tyndall.ie
Key Responsibilities and Research Objectives
This programme involves the combination of atomistic simulations and catalyst development to fabricate novel methane oxidation catalysts for sensors and conversion reactions. The project will combine Tyndall’s expertise in electrochemical micro and nanofabrication with simulation studies to inform sensor materials, design and deployment.
The successful candidate will perform electrochemical research for novel methane sensors. They will be part of a team developing optimised catalysts for new sensing and conversion platforms with atomistic simulation studies and well-defined electrochemical characterisation for a range of parameters at lab scale and ultimately field deployment for the target application.
Additional Responsibilities
1. Activities will include focused research including literature reviews, hypothesis development and identification of novelty associated with the development of peer-reviewed publications commensurate with a PhD thesis.
2. The candidate will be expected to write scientific publications associated with their work and travel to international conferences, workshops, industry and project meetings.
3. Participate in Education and Public Engagement activities.
4. Ensure compliance with Tyndall's Quality Management and Health and Safety standards.
5. Perform additional duties as required within the scope of the post.
Essential Criteria
Applicants must have a first, upper second class honours undergraduate or masters postgraduate degree in Chemistry, Chemical Physics, or Materials Science.
Desirable Criteria
1. A background or demonstrated experience in electrochemistry theory and practical applications particularly with respect to sensor materials and cells would be beneficial.
2. Skills in electrochemical simulation and micro/nanofabrication are beneficial.
3. Evidence of scientific writing skills.
4. Applicants should include a description of their career goals and how this opportunity will assist them in meeting their targets.
For any informal queries, please get in touch with James Rohan.
The annual stipend is €25,000 pa. In addition, yearly University academic fees will be paid by the Tyndall National Institute.
The closing date for applications is Jan 23rd 2025.
Application Instructions
Postgraduate applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency as per UCC regulations (https://www.ucc.ie/en/study/comparison/english/postgraduate/). Certificates should be valid (usually less than 2 years old) and should be uploaded with their application.
Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process. At this time, Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies. Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr