Research Assistant in Environmental Sciences

University College Cork

Institution: University College Cork (UCC), Ireland
Faculty/Department: School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences & Environmental Research Institute
Location: Irish Midlands, Ireland
Position type: Specific Purpose Whole-Time Post
Duration: 32 months
Hours: Full-time
Salary: €33,291 – €43,372 per annum (IUA Salary Scale)
Application deadline: 23 January 2026, 12:00 (Irish Local Time)
Contact: Prof. Marcel Jansen – m.jansen@ucc.ie | +353 21 4205061

Project Summary

  • Part of the Just Transition project: “Demonstrating high value commercial bio-products at a circular IMTA site (CIRC_IMTA_DEMO)”

  • Focused on peatland-based integrated multitrophic aquaculture (IMTA) fish-farm in the Irish midlands

  • Main goals:

    • Optimise outdoor duckweed cultivation on wastewater from aquaculture

    • Develop training and stakeholder engagement programs

    • Explore duckweed biomass as a sustainable plant protein source

Candidate Profile / Requirements

  • Degree in biology, environmental sciences, or related field

  • Independent, creative, and self-motivated researcher

  • Excellent networking and communication skills

  • Technical skills relevant to aquaculture and plant cultivation

  • Valid driving licence and own transport required

  • Willingness to work in the Irish midlands

Responsibilities

  • Optimise duckweed cultivation in outdoor aquaculture setups

  • Design and execute stakeholder engagement and training programs

  • Collaborate in an interdisciplinary team working on bioeconomy solutions

  • Maintain high standards of data collection and reporting

Application Process

UCC Diversity Statement:
UCC is an equal opportunities employer, committed to inclusive recruitment and diversity. Applications are encouraged from all backgrounds, including underrepresented groups.

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