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

• Applications must be submitted online via UCC vacancy portal: https://ore.ucc.ie/
• Queries about the application process: recruitment@ucc.ie (quote job title and project name)
• Informal enquiries: Prof. Marcel Jansen – m.jansen@ucc.ie

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