Research Engineer – Smart Energy Services and Regulatory Innovation
Tyndall National Institute is an international leader in semiconductors, photonics and deep‑tech research and innovation. The Institute is a key partner in the “Chips for Europe Initiative” (EU Chips Act) and hosts the International Energy Research Centre (IERC). It drives research at the intersection of nanotechnology, microelectronics, photonics, electronics and AI, with a focus on energy and climate mitigation.
About the Team
The Smart Energy Services and Regulatory Innovation (SESRI) Team at IERC focuses on developing innovative energy services, business models and regulatory approaches that improve efficiency, sustainability and decarbonisation of energy‑intensive sectors. The team works on design, validation and demonstration of smart energy services and advanced business models, including renewable hydrogen and policy solutions.
About the Role
The Research Engineer will lead research tasks within SESRI, collaborating across IERC on projects such as Energy Performance Contracting, Energy Efficiency, Auditing, Energy Services, Policy and Green Hydrogen. The engineer will report to the SESRI Team Lead.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
Perform as an individual contributor in research projects within the SESRI team
Contribute to the vision and direction for smart energy services and energy policy research in IERC
Contribute to the bid and proposal writing for competitive funding streams
Lead tasks in collaborative projects that deliver high‑quality outcomes to meet industry requirements
Collaborate with external partners through project milestones, ensuring timely delivery of deliverables and reports
Participate in education and public engagement activities
Ensure compliance with Tyndall’s Quality Management Systems, Health and Safety standards and other regulations
Carry out any additional duties that may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post
Essential Criteria
Master’s degree or equivalent in energy engineering or a related discipline
Strong demonstrable experience in at least two of the following areas: energy auditing, energy efficiency, building energy performance, energy performance contracting, energy services, energy policy, building services engineering, energy communities, stakeholder engagement
Strong interest and willingness to work in industrial energy auditing and energy efficiency measures
Strong interest and willingness to work on energy performance contracting
Strong interest and willingness to work on energy policy, business models for energy efficiency and contractual templates
Demonstrated ability to work independently to a tight schedule
Excellent communication, organisational and interpersonal skills
Typical experience of at least one year in a research environment or a PhD (or equivalent) in energy engineering or a related discipline, and experience managing H2020, LIFE or Horizon Europe projects
Desirable Criteria
Demonstrated data and statistical skills
Highly self‑motivated and able to demonstrate initiative
Previous experience in managing and supervising postgraduate students
Experience in conducting energy audits, recommending energy‑saving measures, persuading SMEs, designing and conducting surveys, focus groups, workshops, training courses, webinars and other events
Evidence of professional experience working with industry and understanding of industry needs
Previous experience of report writing for European funded projects
What We Offer
Impactful work: opportunities to contribute to groundbreaking research that shapes 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 expertise
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 and inclusion: Athena Swan Bronze award holder with ongoing initiatives to ensure equity for all
Core values: ambition, collaboration, diversity, excellence and integrity
Entrepreneurial spirit: a proactive, innovation‑driven environment welcoming entrepreneurial and creative thinkers
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 Category: Full‑TimeContract Type: Fixed Term
Eligibility: Appointment may be made on the Grade Senior Executive Assistant/Executive Officer Point 1 Scale B (new entrants) salary €40,327‑€55,667 per annum, in accordance with public sector pay policy.
Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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