Senior Postdoctoral Researcher – Nano‑hetero‑structured magnetoelectric / Spintronic materials and devices
About Tyndall National Institute, an international leader in semiconductors, photonics and deep‑tech research and innovation.
Tyndall is a key partner in the delivery of the 'Chips for Europe Initiative' and a national focal point for excellence in nanotechnology, microelectronics, photonics, electronics and AI.
The Institute hosts over 600 researchers, engineers and students, with a community expanding to 1,000 people by 2030 and a new 17,000 m² research building under development.
Background to the role
The Micropower Devices and Nanomagnetics Group, a world leader in electromagnetically transduced MEMS, magnetoelectrically transduced phonon‑magnon devices, nanostructured magnetic thin‑films and nano‑hetero‑structured devices, is involved in EU Framework, NSF and Irish funding programmes.
The researcher will develop advanced nano‑hetero‑structured magnetoelectric (ME) and spintronic devices, addressing the demand for energy harvesting, sensing and transceiving through micro‑nano fabrication and thin‑film magnetics.
Purpose of the Role
To develop novel nano‑magnetic materials and structures, including magnetic thin films for highly miniaturised magnetic‑M/NEMS applications.
The role requires advanced thin magnetic film development, device fabrication and thorough magnetic characterisation (static and dynamic) in Tyndall's state‑of‑the‑art clean‑room facility, and collaboration with internal and external research teams.
Key Responsibilities
Work with the supervisor and team members to generate ideas and strategies, contributing to the project's profile.
Coordinate and implement research on ME/Spintronic device fabrication processes through collaboration with researchers and clean‑room technicians.
Supervise and provide day‑to‑day advice, support and mentoring to undergraduate students and junior members.
Adopt an independent approach to carry the project forward, proactively identifying opportunities for external funding, preparing research grant proposals, assessing potential commercial exploitation and generating new IP in collaboration with the supervisor.
Engage in the dissemination of results to research stakeholders, partners and funding agencies; publish in top‑tier journals and present at leading conferences.
Communicate the research benefits to wider society through active participation in Education and Public Engagement activities as required.
Engage in training and development opportunities to develop transferable skills and career reputation.
Ensure all activities comply with Tyndall Quality Management, Health and Safety standards and other institutional requirements.
Essential Criteria
Ph D in Materials Science, Engineering, Physics or related discipline, with typically 2+ years of post‑doctoral experience in the relevant field.
In‑depth knowledge of magnetism and magnetic materials, and deep expertise in structural, magnetic and electric characterisation of thin films.
Experience in micro‑nano fabrication techniques such as film deposition, lithography and etching in a clean‑room environment.
Strong track record of publications in journals, conferences or patents and IP material.
Evidence of idea generation capability and delivery – both technically and operationally – of successful research projects.
Evidence of the ability to work independently on one's own initiative and as part of a team.
Highly self‑motivated and initiative‑driven.
Excellent communication, writing, organisation and interpersonal skills.
Desirable Criteria
Evidence of multi‑disciplinary collaboration with external academic or industrial partners.
Experience in multiphysics (COMSOL) and micro‑magnetic (Mu Max3) modelling.
Experience in clean‑room micro‑fabrication processes of hetero‑structured devices.
Experience in static and dynamic characterisation of magnetic materials and devices.
What we offer
Impactful Work: Opportunities to contribute to ground‑breaking research and innovation that shape Ireland's economy and society.
Continuous Learning: Strong support for formal training, further study and professional development.
Interdisciplinary Environment: Academia, industry and innovation intersect – supported by cutting‑edge infrastructure and expert knowledge.
Blended Working: Flexibility to work remotely and on‑site, where the role allows.
Comprehensive Benefits: Access to UCC pension, long‑term illness benefit, life assurance and more.
Generous Leave: Competitive annual leave entitlements.
Equity & Inclusion: Athena Swan Bronze award holder, with ongoing initiatives led by a dedicated People and Culture team.
Core Values: Ambition, Collaboration, Diversity, Excellence and Integrity.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: Innovation‑driven environment welcoming creative thinkers, including start‑up experience.
Supportive Onboarding: Structured induction and mentoring to help new hires integrate and thrive.
Vibrant Culture: Collaborative, people‑first workplace with a strong sense of community.
Terms of Employment
Contract: Full‑Time/Fixed‑Term.
Appointment may be made on the UCC Senior Postdoctoral Researcher scale €54,307–59,064 p.a.
or €46,306–52,863 p.a., depending on the candidate's background and experience.
Salary placement follows public sector pay policy.
The contract is a fixed term of approximately 24 months, with a possibility to extend by 18 months upon the availability of funding, satisfactory performance, mutual agreement and a detailed career development plan.
Application Instructions
Please attach an up‑to‑date CV/Resume and a brief motivation letter outlining how you meet the Essential Criteria.
Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.
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.
Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.
Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Closing date for applications is 1 pm, 2nd March 2026.
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