Applications are invited for a temporary post of a Post-doctoral Research Fellow Level 1 within UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science. This project focuses on converting semi-solid by-products and effluents from the meat industry into renewable energy. By applying anaerobic digestion (AD) and pyrolysis, it aims to produce biogas for energy use and biochar for carbon sequestration, supporting both energy generation and sustainable waste management. The project will involve scaling up to a pilot system, developing a techno-economic model, and creating a digital twin to support broader industry adoption. The meat processing industry generates significant quantities of by-products and waste, posing environmental management challenges. The European Green Deal and EU Bioeconomy Strategy emphasize a transition towards sustainable processes and circular bioeconomy principles. Valorizing waste materials through biotechnological processes like AD and pyrolysis aligns with these objectives, transforming waste into valuable resources. Previous research has explored these valorization processes, but scaling to pilot-level applications is crucial for demonstrating commercial feasibility and potential contributions to regional and EU sustainability goals. Salary Scale: €46,305 - €48,896 Per Annum Appointment on the above range will be dependent upon qualifications and experience. Closing date: 12:00 noon (local Irish time) on the 28th of January 2026. Applications must be submitted by the closing date and time specified. Any applications which are still in progress at the closing time of 12:00 noon (Local Irish Time) on the specified closing date will be cancelled automatically by the system. UCD are unable to accept late applications. UCD do not require assistance from Recruitment Agencies. Any CVs submitted by Recruitment Agencies will be returned. The PD1 position is intended for early-stage researchers, either just after completion of a PhD or for someone entering a new area for the first time. If you have already completed your PD1 stage in UCD or will soon complete a PD1, or you are an external applicant whose total Postdoctoral experience, inclusive of the duration of the advertised post, would exceed 4 years, you should not apply and should refer to PD2 posts instead. To be considered for this role you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page. To start the process click the Apply button below to Login/Register.