PhD: Co-designed framework to address groups most vulnerable to energy poverty (two positions)
Cork, Cork, Ireland • Full Time
About Tyndall
Tyndall National Institute is an international leader in semiconductors, photonics, energy and deep-tech research and innovation.
As a leading collaborative European research institute, Tyndall is a key actor and hosting partner in the delivery of the 'Chips for Europe Initiative' (EU Chips Act).
It is Ireland's leading research and innovation organisation and the national focal point for excellence in deep-tech research, development and graduate training.
The Institute's mission is to deliver economic impact through research excellence in partnership with industry and academia.
The Institute has a community of over 600 researchers, engineers, support staff, postgraduate students, interns and industry researchers-in-residence.
It is growing to 1,000 people by **** and will build a new 17,000 m2 research building adjacent to the Cork headquarters.
About the Team
Based at the Tyndall National Institute, the International Energy Research Centre (IERC) is Ireland's leading independent, not-for-profit energy research organisation.
It delivers world-class research for citizens, industry and stakeholders across the energy ecosystem, supported by funding from the Irish Government, the EU, Science Foundation Ireland and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), alongside key industry collaborators.
About the Role
The purpose of this role is to support the development of a co-designed framework to address energy poverty among the most vulnerable groups.
Working within a multidisciplinary team, the PhD researcher will focus on bridge-building between community engagement and technical data analysis.
The role involves applying DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control) to understand the lived experiences of energy poverty while using statistical methods to develop intersectional vulnerability indices and energy poverty passports.
The successful candidate will ensure robust integration of qualitative insights with quantitative data to create actionable policy tools.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
Execute co-design activities with community partners to identify the specific needs of groups vulnerable to energy poverty.
Perform data analysis and statistical modelling to support the creation of intersectional vulnerability indices.
Support the development and testing of project tools, such as the energy poverty dashboard and community-led frameworks.
Engage in the wider research and scholarly activities of the group, such as outreach and public engagement.
Carry out administrative work to assist the programme of research as necessary.
Engage in the dissemination of the results of the research, as directed by and with the support of senior research staff.
Collaborate with colleagues and the industrial partner to achieve the most impactful outcomes.
Reporting and presenting the work regularly (internal and external).
Participate in Education and Public Engagement activities, as required.
Ensure all activities comply with the Tyndall Quality Management system and required Health & Safety standards.
Carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post.
Essential Criteria
A high honours degree in a multidisciplinary field such as Social Sciences, Environmental Science, or a related discipline with a strong quantitative component.
Foundational technical proficiency in statistical analysis or data handling (consistent with undergraduate/entry-level research).
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diplomatically with diverse stakeholders.
Writing skills for the preparation of research reports and academic publications.
Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
High levels of initiative and being a self-starter.
Flexibility to travel for fieldwork and stakeholder workshops.
Desirable Criteria
A Master's degree in a field relevant to energy policy, social justice, or data analytics.
Familiarity with the DMAIC framework or similar project management and improvement methodologies.
Experience using data analysis software or languages (e.g., SPSS, R, Python, or Excel for advanced statistics).
Knowledge of the energy poverty landscape or social policy in an Irish or European context.
Experience in public engagement or working with non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
Interest in intersectionality and its application to energy or climate transitions.
Presentation experience at workshops or student conferences.
What we Offer
A generous tax-free scholarship stipend payment including tuition fees covered.
20 days per annum annual leave for full-time research students, in addition to public holidays.
Full coverage of travel expenses to international conferences to present project outcomes.
Training and development opportunities are also provided.
Mardyke Sports Arena – Students – free when registered with UCC.
Free Park and Ride Service.
Terms of Employment
Contract: Full Time/Fixed Term
Duration: Fully funded for four years.
Annual stipend €25,******.
Annual tuition fees will be paid by the Tyndall National Institute.
The closing date for applications for this position is 1pm, 29th May ****.
Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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