Reporting to: Head of Department of Physical Sciences Faculty: Science and Informatics Department/Research Group: Physical Sciences/ Nanomaterials and Electronic Devices Location: MTU/Tyndall National Institute Duration:Fixed Term Whole-Time Contract to 31st December 2027 Funding/Project:TU-RISE Project Acronym: RADSENSE Recruitment Type:External Competition 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. Jointly funded by the Irish Government (Higher Education Authority) and the EU through the European Regional Development Fund, the TU Research and Innovation Supporting Enterprise (TU-RISE) programme supports the building of research capacity in higher education institutions in the technological sector. Under the TU RISE programme, MTU was awarded funding to expand our researcher human capital through building a substantial additional cohort of researchers, integrating postgraduates, Post Doctoral Researchers, and highly experienced research leaders, who, working with our already-established research community, will add critical capacity focused on expanding engagement and on MTUs regional, national, and international ambitions. MTU is seeking persons with a relevant PhD qualification and suitable experience to fill the roles of Post Doctoral Researchers. The Post Doctoral Researchers contract must end by 31 December 2027 at the latest. These appointments are open to new recruits only; extension of existing staff contracts cannot be funded. Successful candidates must hold a PhD degree at their contract start date. Overview of the Role & Research Area The central aim of this research is to develop portable detection of oxygen-based free radicals, also known as reactive oxygen species (ROS) by an interconnected, real-time continuous monitoring device that can be integrated into the Internet of Things (IoTs). Augmented by cloud computing for secure storage of data and for better accessibility, the device enhanced by AI technologies in the future will provide more insightful sensor data analysis. This will be achieved by a radically new detection scheme based on nanostructured sensing elements (Cerium oxide nanoparticles, CeOx NPs) capable of simultaneous scavenging of ROS and signal (electrical) generation by a field effect transistor (FET) devices. Supervised by Dr Nikolay Petkov, the postdoctoral (PD) researcher will be embedded to the Physical Sciences and the Tyndall Institute, where PD will perform his experimental work (the clean room fabrication and materials analysis). Main duties and responsibilitieswill include, but are not limited to: 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) The research duties of this particular position will involve elements of the following: Literature review of the subject area to benchmark new data against existing knowledge Coordinate and execute implementation of semiconductor processing, structural characterisation, presentation of data and interpretation of structural data. Coordinate and execute the implementation of experimental work in electrical performance testing. Utilise an independent approach to carry the project work forward. Collaborate with internal and external researchers. 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. Relevant research experience. 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): PhD in physics, materials sciences, chemistry, or electrical engineering. A strong publication record and demonstrated knowledge in on-chips sensors including microfluidics, with corresponding analytical measurements. High communication and presentation skills seen through participation at conferences, workshops etc. Capability of working effectively within a team and/or with technical clean room personnel. Desirable: At least three years post-PhD or equivalent research experience. Proven record of high-quality research. 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. MTUs Research Office will provide support for recruited PDs to enhance their knowledge and skills, such as understanding of funding opportunities, research proposal writing, project management, communication skills, etc., providing them with tools to effectively contribute to project objectives. Terms of Appointment: Salary Scale:Post Doc Researcher €46,305 to €54,307 per annum (1/8/2025 rates), depending on experience Fixed term Contract:to 31st December 2027 inclusive Hours:35 hours per week Annual leave:26 days per annum Additional Benefits: Comprehensive Sick Leave Policy Paid maternity leave Employment Assistance Programme Staff Discount Scheme Gym Access (reduced membership cost) On site Facilities 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. 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. 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 toto apply for this position. Closing date for receipt of completed applications is 5.00 pm on Monday 2nd February 2026 For informal enquiries prior to application, please contact Dr Nikolay Petkov by e-mail atNikolay.Petkor MTUs Research Office The information given in this document is of a general information nature only and should not be taken as contractual. MTU is an equal opportunities employer. MTU is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to the employment policies, procedures and practices which do not discriminate on grounds such as gender, civil status, family status, age, disability, race, religious belief, sexual orientation or membership of the travelling community MTU supports equality of opportunity, diversity and inclusion and encourages underrepresented groups to make applications and accommodates candidates with disability to apply for posts. Please seefor more information including our equality statement. Skills: PhD in related discipline Relevant Research Experience Benefits: Comprehensive Sick Leave Policy Paid Maternity Leave Employee Assistance Programme Gym Access (reduced membership cost)