Research Assistant

Offer Description

Job Title: Research Assistant

Department: Clinical Microbiology

Reporting to: Deirdre Fitzgerald Hughes

Location: Smurfit Building, Beaumont, Dublin

Contract/Duration: Temporary (9 month) - Full time

Remuneration: Post will be appointed on the Research Assistant IUA Salary Scales commensurate with experience

Closing Date: 9:00am on Wednesday 21st of October 2026

Summary of Post

We have a full-time research assistant position available for an early career researcher with excellent technical and professional skills. The successful candidate will support the team in progressing the evaluation of novel photodynamic materials and prototypes for eradication of microbial contamination in wastewater-associated plumbing fixtures (sink and drain pipework). In the healthcare environment, these reservoirs may be a source of transmission of pathogens, including those associated with antimicrobial resistance. Photodynamic technologies offer the potential for effective, sustainable and environmentally-friendly physical disinfection in-situ. The cross-disciplinary team of Microbiologists, Chemists, Engineers and Healthcare Professionals have developed photodynamic materials that effectively kill clinically important pathogens. This post will facilitate the further evaluation of the prototype systems that incorporate these materials.

Specifically, the duties of the post are:

• Evaluate the antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties of photo-activated coating materials.
• Compare antimicrobial properties of the materials to current disinfectants.
• Conduct baseline microbial surveillance of under sink drains
• With team members, conduct laboratory and field testing to evaluate the efficacy of the prototype in reducing pathogen burden.
• Record, interpret and manage experimental data
• Present research findings at team meetings and stakeholder meetings
• Collaborate with the wider team of Chemists, Engineers, Microbiologists and Healthcare staff as appropriate to achieve the project goals.
• Undertake administrative duties to facilitate the smooth running of research activities.
• Any other duties commensurate with the grade of the post as directed by line manager.

Qualifications – (Essential):

• BSc (Hons) in Microbiology or a closely related discipline

Knowledge & Experience – (Essential):

• Experience working on research projects with a particular focus on microbiology or a closely related discipline
• Experience in a diverse range of laboratory research methods.
• Proficiency in using statistical software for data analysis.
• Strong communication skills, appropriate to audience and situation.
• Excellent time-management, interpersonal and organisational skills.
• Ability to work independently, flexibly and collaboratively as part of a team
• Strong attention to detail and deadlines

Knowledge & Experience – (Desirable):

• Strong creative thinking skills, with the ability to develop innovative solutions to complex challenges.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage constructively with multidisciplinary teams of scientists and healthcare professionals.
• Ability to contribute original ideas and insights to research design, implementation, and knowledge dissemination activities.

We are all too aware that imposter syndrome and the confidence gap can sometimes stop fantastic candidates putting themselves forward, so please do submit an application — we’d love to hear from you.

At RCSI, people are at the heart of everything we do. Watch our short video to discover our culture, values, and shared commitment to making a meaningful impact on health worldwide. RCSI: Ensemble - Body Meets Mind.

Application Process

Please apply online through the RCSI careers portal on the closing date with your CV and cover letter.

Click here to read our Recruitment and Selection Policy for Researcher.

Requirements

• Research Field: Environmental science » Other
• Education Level: Bachelor Degree or equivalent

Additional Information

Work Location(s)

• Number of offers available: 1
• Company/Institute: Royal College of Surgeons Ireland
• Country: Ireland

Contact

• City: Dublin
• Website: http://www.rcsi.ie/careers
• Street: 121/122 St. Stephen's Green