Title: Research Fellow Department: Process, Energy & Transport Engineering MeSSO Research Group Contract Type: Fixed Term, Whole Time Contract up to 31 December 2028 Location: Bishopstown Campus, Cork Reporting to: Dr. Michael D. Murphy OVERVIEW Munster Technological University (MTU) is a multi-campus technological university, contributing to the region through the provision of academic programmes that support student development and opportunities, education and research. MTU has an extensive and impressive regional footprint with six campuses across the South-West region of Ireland, in Cork and Kerry, and a student body of 18,000. Role & Research Area MeSSO at MTU is seeking to recruit a Research Fellow to join a sustainable agriculture project. The project is focused on simulation and optimisation of dairy and beef production systems and the integration of renewable biogas. MTU are seeking an enthusiastic, motivated individual with an ability to work to a high standard with a proven track record in a relevant academic or commercial research environment. Location The role will be based primarily in the MeSSO Research Group at the Munster Technological University (Cork) although researchers will be expected to carry out some work at other collaborating academic and commercial institutes. MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Research (general) Conduct a specific programme of research and scholarship under the general guidance of a member of the academic staff or Principal Investigator (PI)/Project Leader (PL). Engage in training and development opportunities as required by the PI/PL. Engage in the dissemination of the results of the research in which they are engaged, as directed by, with the support of and under the supervision of the PI/PL. Engage in postgraduate student supervision. Engage with industry partners, as per research programme requirements. Acquire generic and transferable skills (including project management, business skills and postgraduate mentoring/supervision), subject to availability within the University. Research (specific to the project) Conduct research at MTU and other collaborator sites to meet the objectives of the project Research relevant literature and keep abreast of recent advances in the field Report and present findings on a regular basis to the research team and research partners for review purposes. To transfer and implement knowledge from the research project into the operations of the project partners Analyse large datasets and apply advanced analytical techniques to optimise energy performance Develop mathematical models and optimisation methods Prepare high-quality research publications, reports, and presentations for international conferences and peer-reviewed journals Contribute to the supervision of PhD and MSc students involved in related research activities Administration/Management Carry out additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post. Assist in the management/co-ordination of key aspects of the research programme (e.g., financial management, reporting, equipment management, etc.). Funding Contribute to identifying external funding sources and assist with writing grant proposals. KEY SKILLS & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED The successful candidate will have minimum academic qualifications and experience as follows: Essential: Hold a PhD in a relevant discipline at the contract start date. Six years of experience in a similar research role. Experience co-supervising postgraduate students. Self-starter who is comfortable with working independently at project level, while still contributing to the team environment at a research unit level. Demonstrable research skills, proposal and report writing, and project management skills, as indicated by a track record of projects, publications and other research outputs. Fluency in English and excellent written and oral presentation skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Skills & Experience (specific to the project): Modelling experience (e.g. mechanistic, regression, machine learning) Proficiency in coding optimisation algorithms (e.g. gradient based, metaheuristic) Geospatial analysis and optimisation experience. Experience with software such as Python, MATLAB, Simulink, ArcGIS, QGIS and RStudio Data analytics experience Experience in engineering report writing and publishing research outcomes Desirable: Proven record of high-quality research. Strong publication record. Knowledge of dairy and beef production systems Knowledge and understanding of policy, practices, and procedures that are relevant to the role, to include knowledge and understanding of Research Ethics, and may also include broader university, sectoral, and external sponsor or funder policies. TERMS OF APPOINTMENT: Salary Scale effective 1 August 2025: Research Fellow €65,889 to €71,796 per annum depending on experience Contract: Fixed term, whole time contract up to 31 December 2028 Annual leave: 28 days per annum Additional Benefits: Comprehensive Sick Leave Policy 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 The Interview Process If invited to interview, it is likely candidates will be assessed at the interview under the following criteria (additional criteria may be added for the Interview as the need arises): Appropriateness of the candidate to the role and assessment of current skills set to the outlined criteria for the role. Essential and Desirable skills set. Fluency in written and presentation skills in English. Independent motivation and team contributions. Qualifications (Academic & Professional) Applicants must directly address the essential and desirable skills and experience listed above. Highlight how your qualifications, experience, and achievements meet the essential criteria, using specific examples. For desirable skills/experience, emphasise any additional strengths or expertise that make you a standout candidate, and tailor their application to demonstrate their alignment with the role to add value to the University. 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 Euraxess Ireland or relevant Immigration permissions/stamp. 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. Please log on to to apply for this position. Closing date for receipt of completed applications is 1.00 pm on Monday, 24 November 2025. Contact details for informal discussion prior to submitting your application: Dr Michael D Murphy email: 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.