Associate Professor of Molecular Biology

Faculty: Science & Engineering
Department: Biological Sciences
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary Scale: €63,943 - €102,475 p.a.
Closing Date: Tuesday, 28th October 2025, 12:00 noon (Irish Standard Time)

Job Synopsis

If you are seeking an academic career in an inspiring and cohesive Biological Science Department that delivers excellent research, teaching, and societal impact, then the new permanent Associate Professor B in Cellular and Molecular Biology position in our department should be of interest to you.

The Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Limerick (UL) is widely regarded as one of the leading centers for food and biological-related research and education in Europe. Nestled along the scenic banks of the River Shannon, the department has built a reputation for excellence in research, innovative teaching, and community engagement. The Department is home to cutting-edge biomolecular, cellular, and bioanalytical facilities funded through university investment as well as national and international grants. These have served as a nexus for research in areas such as cell and molecular biology, food science and health, biotechnology, and equine science.

The Department comprises 25 academics supported by 7 technical staff and 1 administrator. It has over 40 PhD students and 16 postdoctoral scientists across various disciplines such as cell biology, protein chemistry, cancer research, neurobiology, infection and immunity, environmental biology, reproductive biology, equine science, food science, food microbiology, and microbial ecology.

Over the last academic year alone, Department of Biological Sciences academics have secured over €6 million in competitive research funding from sources including Horizon Europe (Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowships and Doctoral Networks), Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund, Science Foundation Ireland, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Irish Research Council, Enterprise Ireland, Health Research Board, Industry, and others. This has been matched by a correspondingly high level of top-decile research publications, as well as book chapters, patents, invention disclosures, etc., over the same period. The Department is home to several of the most highly cited researchers in their field.

In addition to its research activities, the Department of Biological Sciences offers undergraduate programmes in Food Science and Health, Bioscience, and Equine Science. It also significantly contributes to programmes such as BSc Biological Sciences (Education), BSc Environmental Science, BSc Industrial Biochemistry, BSc in Biomedical Science, and BSc Nursing and Midwifery. It offers three MSc programmes: MSc in Biomolecular Science, MSc in Molecular and Analytical Biosciences, and MSc in Functional Foods and Product Development. It also contributes to the MSc in Nutrition and Dietetics (a joint programme with the School of Allied Health). Since 2015, the Department has proudly held a Bronze Athena Swan award in recognition of its commitment to advancing equality, diversity, and inclusion in higher education.

Role Overview

The Department of Biological Sciences welcomes applications for the permanent position of Associate Professor B in Molecular Bioscience. We are looking for an academic with the capacity to build a well-funded research programme of international significance, producing high-quality research outputs that will make a tangible impact on society's global challenges. This research programme will complement the teaching of Bioscience at the MSc and BSc levels at the University of Limerick.

Application Requirements

Applications must include:

• A letter of introduction

• A current CV indicating how you meet the criteria outlined in the Job Description

• A completed online application form

Note: Applications must be completed online before 12 noon, Irish Standard Time, on the closing date.

For assistance with the application process, email: erecruitment@ul.ie

Informal Enquiries

Professor Sean Fair
Head, Department of Biological Sciences
University of Limerick
Email: Sean.Fair@ul.ie

Applications are welcome from suitably qualified candidates.

Job ID: 078968
Competition Type: Academic