Title:
Research Assistant Cyber Safety Department:
Cyber Explore /
Nimbus Research Centre Contract Type:
Fixed Term, Whole Time Contract up to 17th April 2026 Location: Bishopstown Campus, Cork Reporting to: Dr Hazel Murray Overview of Cyber Safety Project The goal of the Cyber Safety Team is to improve the cyber-safety of vulnerable members of society through the development of tailored and accessible security supports and guidance.
Our challenge is to ensure that minority groups are not more vulnerable to cyber-attacks because of a difference in ability.
Any engagement with technology requires appropriate cyber hygiene measures.
In the Creating Our Future report, mitigating the digital divide in society, and in particular for older people, was a core concern to citizens.
Our challenge is to provide vulnerable populations with the guidance to allow them to interact securely and confidently in our increasingly digital world.
This project is funded by the Research Ireland National Challenge Fund Grow phase 22/NCF/OT/11212G and is supported by the National cyber security centre.
Location of Role:
Cyber Safety Team within the Cyber Explore Research Group @Nimbus Research Centre, Munster Technological University.
The Cyber Explore Research Group at Munster Technological University (MTU) is committed to enhancing cybersecurity resilience for communities and industries across the southwest region, nationally, and internationally.
The group collaborates with vulnerable populations, small businesses, and multinational organisations to develop accessible and equitable security solutions.
Cyber Explore leads several key initiatives: Cyber Innovate Supporting cyber entrepreneurs in developing innovative security solutions.
QCloud Driving advancements in quantum computing and cybersecurity research.
Cutting-Edge Cyber Range Providing state-of-the-art infrastructure for cyber attack and defence simulations.
Cyber Skills Addressing Irelands critical cybersecurity skills shortage by equipping professionals with industry-relevant expertise.
Cyber Futures Running an annual Cyber Academy for Transition Year students, introducing them to the foundations of cybersecurity careers.
Through pioneering research, education, and industry collaboration, Cyber Explore is shaping the future of cybersecurity, ensuring a more secure digital landscape for all.
March 2025 Page 2 of 5 Ref: The Nimbus Research Centre, MTU, is Irelands leading research centre on the Internet of Things (IoT) and Cyber Physical Systems domain.
From energy and water optimisation and conservation to smart city infrastructure, and Industry 4.0, the Nimbus Research Centre, in collaboration with partners from all corners of the globe, plays a key role in harnessing and translating the research and industry opportunities presented by the recent rapid advances in IoT innovation.
In addition to cutting edge national and international research activity, the Nimbus Research Centre operates as an Enterprise Ireland Technology Gateway.
The Nimbus Gateway transforms industry through innovation by working with start-ups, SMEs and multinational companies to deliver over 60 innovative smart projects annually, offering an ideal opportunity for researchers to develop their research from concept to market.
Duties of the Post:
The successful applicant will report to project leads and contribute to research to fulfil the goal of the Cyber Safety for vulnerable populations research project.
The role demands active participation in research fieldwork (quantitative and qualitative), and contributions to the design of cyber safety guidance and tools with the goal to improving the cyber safety of vulnerable populations.
The candidate will be expected to travel to user sites if necessary to meet with and/or validate research findings and solutions.
Main duties will include but not limited to: Contribute to the strategic direction for the Cyber Safety Research Team.
User studies to understand how users interact with digital products and services.
Qualitative and quantitative data analysis Contribution to the writing of the end of project report and subsequent funding proposals.
Contribute to the development of solutions for identified user needs.
Test and iteratively improve these solutions in collaboration with stakeholders.
Attend weekly team meetings and provide updates Assist with the writing of research publications.
The appointee shall carry out the lawful instructions of the President (or authorised Officer) and comply with the requirements and regulations of the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
This position is based in the MTU Cork Campus (Bishopstown) in the first instance.
The successful candidate will report to Dr Hazel Murray, MTU.
March 2025 Page 3 of 5 Ref: Qualification Requirements and Selection Criteria for role: Essential: An appropriate third-level qualification at QQI level 8 honours degree or equivalent or above.
Experience working with vulnerable populations.
Existing cybersecurity or user design knowledge Strong intrapersonal skills allowing the candidate to build rapport with study participants and confidence hosting 1-1 interviews and group conversations.
Fluent in spoken and written
English Desirable:
Experience working on a research project team.
Data recording and analysis skills.
Other attributes:
Good communication and interpersonal skills Evidence of ability to work on own initiative as well as part of a team Ability and willingness to work in a collaborative environment An understanding of, and empathy with, the concerns of vulnerable populations
NOTE:
In addition to the minimum qualifications, it may be necessary to introduce further shortlisting criteria.
Therefore, candidates may be shortlisted on the basis of qualifications and suitable experience based on details given in the application.
Candidates should note that they may be called for more than one interview.
Upon completion of interview, a panel will be formed from appointable candidates.
The successful candidate will work with the CyberSafety project team, respecting the competencies and capabilities of each team member, and will work within the team towards the overall goal of the project.
The candidate will be chosen to compliment the skills of overall team.
Remuneration, Benefits and Facilities:
Salary scale effective 1 March 2025: Research Assistant Salary Range €32,962 p.a.
- €42,943 p.a.
Fixed term contract up to 17th April 2026.
Annual Leave 25 days per annum March 2025 Page 4 of 5 Ref: The rate of remuneration for all appointments may be adjusted from time to time with government policy.
Additional Benefits:
Comprehensive Sick Leave Policy Paid maternity leave Employment Assistance Programme Staff Discount Scheme Gym Access (reduced membership cost)
On site Facilities:
On site Car Parking On site dining facilities On site TFI Bike Sharing Station Interview &
Additional Information:
Interview Process:
If invited to interview, candidates are likely to be assessed at the interview under the following criteria.
Additional criteria may be added for the interview as the need arises.
Qualification or equivalent experience Experience working with vulnerable populations.
Existing cybersecurity or user design knowledge Communication and teamwork skills Research experience or data analysis expertise Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend for interview.
Additional Information:
A successful candidate will be required to submit a passport, documentary evidence confirming academic qualifications, and to undergo a medical examination.
Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance may also be required.
References will be sought in relation to successful candidate.
MTU welcomes applications from non-EEA citizens.
However, employee permit regulations set by the Department of Enterprise, Trade & Employment must be strictly adhered to.
Any appointment offer to Non-EEA candidates is subject to the granting of a work permit by the Euraxess Ireland or relevant Immigration permissions/stamp.
March 2025 Page 5 of 5 Ref: Candidates may be required to produce documentary evidence to support any statements made by them on their application form or any supporting documentation.
Candidates should note that any inaccurate information will invalidate their application.
Application Process:
Applications by MTU eRecruitment system only.
Applications will not be accepted in any other format or through any other channel of communication.
Please log on to to apply for this position.
Closing date for receipt of completed applications is 1pm on Friday 28th March 2025.
For an informal enquiry regarding the position, please contact Dr
Hazel Murray e-mail:
prior to submitting your application for the position.
The information given in this document is of a general information nature only and should not be taken as contractual.
Important Notes:
Screening and short-listing only takes place on the basis of information submitted on the application.
In addition to the minimum criteria, it may be necessary to introduce further shortlisting criteria.
Candidates should note that they may be called for more than one interview.
Please ensure that full information is given on qualifications and that the information is accurate and corresponds to the original transcript of qualifications.
Please ensure that those you nominate as referees are contacted by you and will be able to supply a reference without delay if requested.
The University regrets that it cannot pay expenses for candidates attending interviews for this post or for taking up the position, if appointed.
Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted.
Appointments will be subject to Garda vetting.
MTU is an equal opportunities employer.
Skills:
Research Project Planning Communication