Postdoctoral Researcher – Digital Twins and Machine Learning Insight Research Ireland Centre for Data Analytics
Ref. No. 010812
JOB ADVERTISEMENT
Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a full-time, fixed term, 12-month contract position as a Postdoctoral Research in the Insight Research Ireland Centre for Data Analytics within the Data Science Institute (DSI) of the University of Galway, Ireland.
This position is funded through the Insight Research Ireland Centre for Data Analytics, ENEPORTS project, and it is available from 3rd March 2025 to contract end date of 2nd March 2026.
At the Data Science Institute (DSI), the focus lies in investigating technologies that intersect Computer Science, Web Science, and Artificial Intelligence. Our goal is to establish a foundational comprehension of how digital processes fuelled by information and knowledge are becoming pivotal in shaping society. Additionally, we explore the tools, techniques, and principles that underpin a world enriched by data.
The Insight Research Ireland Centre for Data Analytics is one of the largest research centres on data analytics. It brings together researchers from across Ireland to create a critical mass of more than 400 researchers from Ireland’s leading ICT clusters. Researchers at Insight carry out research on a new generation of data analytics technologies in a number of key application domain areas, such as Health and Human Performance, Smart Communities, Internet of Things, Enterprise and Services, Sustainability, and Operations.
We seek to appoint a talented and enthusiastic researcher with excellent knowledge of digital twins and machine learning. The ideal candidate is expected to also possess expertise in energy systems and artificial intelligence.
Salary: Postdoctoral Researcher pay scale €44,846 – €57,332 per annum, (subject to the project’s
funding limitations), and pro rata for shorter and/or part-time contracts.
The default position for all new public sector appointments is the 1st point of the salary scale. This may be reviewed, and consideration afforded to appointment at a higher point on the pay scale (subject to the project’s funding limitations), where evidence of prior years’ equivalent experience is accepted in determining placement on the scale above point 1, subject to the maximum of the scale.
(Research Salary Scales – University of Galway)
Closing date for receipt of applications is 17:00 (Irish Time) on 13th January 2025. It will not be possible to consider applications received after the closing date.
Please review full job description for further details and essential requirement
JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Description:
The postdoctoral Researcher will conduct research in energy systems and artificial intelligence, joining an established team of researchers and PhD students with expertise spanning artificial intelligence, business management, and information systems. The group has a longstanding tradition of applying its knowledge across various fields, including healthcare, education, sustainability, smart cities, privacy, and digital humanities.
The successful candidate will have the chance to contribute to the decarbonization of energy systems in European ports through the development and study of digital twins for power sources, while also supporting stakeholder engagement and educational initiatives. This role includes active participation in cross-consortium meetings with academic, industry, and government partners, as well as involvement in events with stakeholders in the European Data and AI Ecosystems.
The successful candidate will be based in the Insight Research Ireland Centre for Data Analytics at the University of Galway. The successful candidate will be supported in their professional development, be able to avail of a range of career level focussed training opportunities, have the potential to publish research findings in leading journals and international events.
Duties: The successful candidates will be expected to:
• Conduct a programme of research at the intersection of energy systems and artificial intelligence.
• Develop, deploy and evaluate digital twins for renewable energy generation and consumption based on machine learning.
• Working with the team/independently to develop a proof of concept for validating research ideas or outcomes.
• Support the Principal Investigators in the design and development of the specific research programme.
• Assist the Principal Investigator in overseeing software and system development for various projects.
• Design and implementation of industrial prototype demonstrators.
• Bring fresh ideas and creative approaches to solving complex research challenges.
• Produce top-quality journal and conference publications with the support of and under the supervision of the Principal Investigator.
• Assist in the attraction of funding.
• Provide support and advice to PhD students working on similar topics.
• Participate in Centre activities, including industry showcases, annual reviews and industry and agency visits
• Any other duties assigned commensurate to this level of post.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Essential Requirements:
• PhD degree in computer science, information systems, or a closely related discipline.
• Experience in technical and research aspects related to digital twins, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.
• An active research profile and track record of publications.
• Evidence of strong quantitative and/or qualitative research skills.
• Strong programming skills in Java and/or at least one other programming language (C, C++, Python, Scala)
• Ability to work in a team-based environment developing state-of-the-art software solutions on time and to specification
• Strong coordination, organisational and management skills.
• Motivated and proactive attitude, willing to take ownership and initiative in all work assignments
• Excellent communication skills with strong written and verbal English communication skills
Desirable Requirements:
• Expertise in related areas such as energy systems and renewable energy
• Good understanding of energy markets and economic modelling.
• Experience of multi-disciplinary research projects and academic-industrial research collaborations.
• Previous experience working on European Union (EU) projects.
CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Continuing Professional Development/Training:
Researchers at University of Galway are encouraged to avail of a range of training and development opportunities designed to support their personal career development plans. University of Galway provides continuing professional development supports for all researchers seeking to build their own career pathways either within or beyond academia. Researchers are encouraged to engage with our Researcher Development Centre (RDC) upon commencing employment – see HERE for further information.
Further Information/Links
• To apply: Search Current University of Galway vacancies. Applications must be submitted online.
o How to apply guide
• For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Umair ul Hassan (J.E. Cairnes School of Business & Economics), Christiane Leahy-Coen (Data Science Institute), Email: umair.ulhassan@universityofgalway.ie and christiane.leahy-coen@universityofgalway.ie
• Working in Research at University of Galway
• Moving to Ireland (Euraxess)
• We reserve the right to re-advertise or extend the closing date for this post.
• University of Galway is an equal opportunities employer.
• All positions are recruited in line with Open, Transparent, Merit (OTM) and Competency based recruitment.
