Postdoctoral researcher in electrical engineering with specialisation in power electronics

Job Description

The "intelligent Grid (iG)" research team at the International Energy Research Centre (IERC), Tyndall National Institute, University College Cork, invites applications for Post-Doctoral Researchers in Electrical Engineering with a specialisation in Power Electronics. The role will support the delivery of IERC projects, contribute to bid and proposal activities for new funding, and engage in a variety of internal- and external-facing activities, including with IERC business partners. Therefore, the optimal candidate will have excellent technical, business, interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal, a passion for multidisciplinary research in energy and an ambition to develop their own research agenda.

IERC researchers are expected to understand academic and industrial requirements, as well as have a sound knowledge of the broader energy landscape beyond their area of expertise. All researchers are encouraged to initiate and contribute to writing proposals for the EU and other external funding streams.

The position is initially for three years approximately 2 years with potential for extension pending further funding.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading the delivery of technical tasks and work packages on a number of IERC projects, including guiding junior team members through their roles in project delivery.
• Providing the technical and administrative assistance which underpins the project coordination function for all phases of IERC projects, including development, delivery and closeout, budget management and resource management to enhance and deliver the requirements of the funding body.
• Provide assistance with the development of proposals and applications for new projects and technical reports/deliverables associated with project delivery and conference/journal papers for publication.
• Assisting IERC colleagues to manage and deliver projects accelerating the energy sector's decarbonisation.
• Liaise and build working relationships with potential industry and research partners to enable the establishment of strong consortia for proposals and extend the reach and reputation of the IERC.
• The successful candidate will be encouraged to develop their research interests and activities.
• 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 as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post.

Essential Criteria

• A PhD in Electrical Engineering specialising in Power Electronics.
• Experience in managing research projects.
• Cover letter should clearly demonstrate research expertise in at least two of the following areas:
  • Power converter design for grid-connected and off-grid applications for critical infrastructures.
  • Energy conversion and management of distributed energy resources in AC, DC, Hybrid Distribution, Microgrid networks.
  • Application of artificial intelligence in power electronics and control.
• Demonstrated Hardware Experience of Converters, Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), prototype development, and any real-time controlling platform (OPAL-RT) in the areas listed above.
• Proven track record of research publications
• Excellent communication, organisation and interpersonal skills

Desirable Criteria

• Previous project management experience
• Strong critical thinking, analytical and problem-solving skills
• Previous experience in managing and supervising postgraduate students
• Research experience in a University/Research Institute/Industry
• Presentations at conferences
• Evidence of high levels of initiative and self-starter.
• Flexibility to travel
• Evidence of professional experience working with industry and demonstrating an understanding of industry needs
• Previous experience in report writing for externally funded projects

What we offer

Apart from offering a position in a very successful and positive research environment, with a collaborative ethos full of diverse competencies to boost your career, we offer the following:

• Impactful Work: Opportunities to contribute to ground-breaking research and innovation that shape Ireland's economy and the society at large.
• Continuous Learning: Strong support for formal training, further study and professional development.
• Interdisciplinary Environment: Where academia, industry, and innovation intersect - supported by cutting-edge infrastructure and expert knowledge.
• 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 & Inclusion: Athena Swan Bronze award holder, with ongoing initiatives led by a dedicated People and Culture team to ensure equity for all.
• Core Values: A culture grounded in Ambition, Collaboration, Diversity, Excellence, and Integrity.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: A proactive, innovation-driven environment that welcomes entrepreneurial and creative thinkers, including those with start-up experience.
• Supportive Onboarding: Structured induction and mentoring to help new hires integrate and thrive.
• Vibrant Culture: A collaborative, people-first workplace with a strong sense of community.

The successful candidate would also be expected to participate in IERC's research activities, contribute to the bid and proposal activity for new funding and engage in a variety of internal and external-facing activities.

The IERC provides a supportive and collaborative working environment to ensure equal employment and advancement opportunities.

Terms of Employment

Contract Category: Full-Time
Contract Type: Fixed Term (approximately 2 years)

Appointment may be made on the IUA Postdoctoral Researcher Scale PD1 (new entrants) salary €47,273 - €53,925 per annum. Salary placement on appointment will be in accordance with the public sector pay policy.

Informal enquiries can be made in confidence to Dr Shafi Khadem.

Please make sure to attach an up-to-date CV/Resume AND a brief motivation letter outlining how you meet the 'Essential Criteria' for this role.

Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.

Please note that an appointment to the advertised posts will depend on university approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector.

Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.

Tyndall National Institute at University College Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.