PhD Researcher in Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Sensor Development for Quorum SensingContract: 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 now focusing its research in front end precision electrochemical sensor development. We recently won and are coordinating a new EU funded project "UNIVERSWATER: Universal interoperative sustainable agri-water management platform". The main aim of this project is to develop a real-time, multiplexed, end-to-end, tailored and reliable sensor platform to monitor quality and optimise use of water used for irrigation.
As part of this EU-funded project, applications are invited for a PhD research position within the Precision Electrochemical Nanosensor Group at the Tyndall National Institute – University College Cork. The position is initially for three years with potential for extension pending further funding.
Purpose of the RoleThe candidate will co-develop new approaches for sensitive detection of Quorum sensing reporters based on Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering methods. The candidate will also investigate the use of electrochemical methods for orthogonal sensing. Work will also focus on developing and applying machine learning and data analysis to optimise the sensor output.
Key ResponsibilitiesThe candidate will work in a team environment and under the direction of the Principal Investigator/Project Leader to:
Design, fabricate and test new Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) sensors for detection of targeted analytesIntegrate the developed sensors into a dedicated sensing systemUse Data Science chemometric approaches to analyse spectroscopic dataLiaise with research partners at a technical levelManage communication with relevant partiesValidate reliability and performance under laboratory conditionsWork efficiently with other team members in the testing developmentCarry out administrative work to support the program of research and ensure all project deliverables and milestones are achieved in a timely mannerParticipate in Education and Public Engagement activities, as required.Ensure all activities are compliant with the Tyndall Quality Management system.Ensure all activities are compliant with the required Health and Safety standards.Carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post.Essential CriteriaBSc or Master's degree in chemistry/microbiology/physics or equivalentGood knowledge of sensor development and deploymentStrong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a wider teamAbility to critically evaluate the obtained results and present to their peers.Desirable CriteriaGood laboratory, communication and problem-solving skills.High levels of initiative, self-management, achievement-orientation, and motivation are encouraged.Knowledge of Raman-based techniquesThe successful student will receive training in all research methods required and will work alongside experienced professional researchers within the Precision Electrochemical Nanosensor Group, attend conferences and publish in high impact journals. The research is supported by a suite of equipment and laboratory facilities within the group that are amongst the best in Europe.
The annual stipend is €22,000 pa. In addition, yearly University academic fees will be paid by the Tyndall National Institute.
Informal enquiries can be made in confidence to Dr. Pierre Lovera. Closing date for application is 29th November 2024 before noon.
Application InstructionsPostgraduate 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/postgraduates). 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. The University, at its discretion, may undertake to make an additional appointment(s) from this competition following the conclusion of the process. Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on University approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector. 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.
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