PL-02 Post doctoral Researcher– Data Analytics for Spectroscopy
Contract: Full Time/Fixed Term
As one of Europe’s leading ICT institutes, with over 600 people and a capital infrastructure in excess of €250m, Tyndall is at the forefront of Smart Sensor Systems development.
Applications are invited for a Post-Doctoral research position within the Nanotechnology Group at the Tyndall National Institute – University College Cork. The position is for two years with potential for extension pending further funding. We have recently developed Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) substrates that have demonstrated sensitive detection of various contaminants. In the current project, Tyndall, in collaboration with an industry partner, will apply these sensors for quality control of beverages. As a result, the Tyndall National Institute is therefore seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher in Data Analytics to join our team in this exciting and rapidly expanding R&D field and work on the application and development of mathematical methods for robust analysis of Raman spectroscopic data.
Skills and Experience
This is an exciting project in a fast-moving, industrially relevant area. Reporting to the team leader of the research activity, the candidate will take a hands-on role, and will be responsible for the day-to-day execution of the technical research tasks outlined above. Scientific dissemination (preparation of regular internal reports, journal and conference publications, and industrial liaison) is an essential part of the position. Some international travel may also be required.
It is critical that the candidate has an ability to work in a team environment, as he/she will liaise closely with other team members engaged in developing complementary aspects in the project. In addition, close cooperation with our industrial partners is required, who will provide support, supervision and direction throughout the research activity. The successful candidate should be highly motivated with excellent organizational and communications skills, demonstrate an understanding of the research environment, the ability to communicate his/her research and the potential to manage a research project.
The successful candidate will experience the excitement of working with high-profile industry on emerging technologies in a world-class research environment, and will have the opportunity to build the career profile associated with presentation at international conferences, workshops and industry meetings, and publication of the research in high impact journals.
Key Responsibilities
The candidate will work in a team environment and under the direction of the Principal Investigator/Project Leader to:
1. Use Data Science to analyse spectroscopic data
2. Lead sensor data analysis to support algorithm development
3. Design, implement, test and document new algorithms for food quality control analysis
4. Carry out specification and design procedures that respond to the needs of our industrial partner
5. Liaise with research partners and relevant stakeholders at a technical level
6. Manage communication with relevant parties
7. Validate reliability and performance under laboratory conditions
8. Work efficiently with other team members in the testing development
9. Carry out administrative work to support the program of research and ensure all project deliverables and milestones are achieved in a timely manner
10. Contribute to the engagement on intellectual property activities in partnership with the Office of Technology Transfer
11. Participate in Education and Public Engagement activities, as required.
12. Ensure all activities are compliant with the Tyndall Quality Management system.
13. Ensure all activities are compliant with the required Health and Safety standards.
14. Carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post.
Essential Criteria
15. A PhD in Data Analytics, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Electrical and Electronic/Biomedical Engineering, or related area.
16. Typically, 1-2 years academic or industry experience in the technical areas mentioned above.
17. Appropriate experience in the areas of analysis of spectroscopic data
18. Experience in different tools: R, C, Python.
19. Deep knowledge of math, probability, statistics and algorithms.
20. An ability to work independently to a tight schedule.
21. A demonstrated capability in the delivery of research projects.
Desirable Criteria
22. Experience with lab equipment (e.g. spectroscopy), and a willingness to adapt to a multidisciplinary field.
23. Prior experience of working with/in industry, scientific paper writing, conference presentation and report writing is also desirable.
24. Past experience in interacting with industry stakeholders is also a plus.
25. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
26. Capability of working effectively within a team to achieve results.
27. Self-motivation, initiative, and being achievement-oriented.
The duration of the project is initially 24 months.
Appointment may be made on the IUA Researcher Scale €41,207- € 47,477 depending on qualification and experience.Salary placement on appointment will be in accordance with public sector pay
For further information and informal enquiries please contact Dr Pierre Lovera at