JOB DESCRIPTION Postdoctoral Research Opportunity Job Title: Reporting to: Location: Duration:
Post-Doctoral Researcher Dr Rick Officer, Centre Leader Marine and Freshwater Research Centre, GMIT, Galway 1 Year Fixed Term
Funding Agency: Project Title:
Environmental Protection Agency Scope, fate, risks and impacts of micro-plastic pollution in Irish freshwater systems.
Description: This one year study will inform the development and implementation of policy through improved understanding of the environmental fate and risk posed by micro-plastics in Irish freshwater systems. Identification of potential sources and characteristics of micro-plastics in freshwater systems; together with an assessment of exposure, evaluation of biological effects and interactions with pollutants is needed to inform societal, regulatory and political discussions at national and European levels. Through characterisation of the scope, fate, and impact of micro-plastics in Irish lakes and rivers this project will facilitate development of policies and strategies that address risks posed by this emerging pollutant. The candidate will join a dynamic research team at GMIT’s Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC). The MFRC works to achieve two over-arching and complementary outcomes: 1. Contribution to marine and freshwater conservation, management and advisory processes through analytical products, applications and reports; and, 2. Publication in the primary literature to ensure state of the art standards. This dual approach ensures the quality of the deliverables and highlights the excellent work conducted in Ireland to an international audience, whilst also serving national needs. As a specialised research centre the MFRC places particular emphasis on its key research areas through informing policy, industry engagement and academic output with more than 190 international peer reviewed publications in the last 5 years. Requirements/Background: A PhD in one or more of the following: freshwater pollution, micro-plastics, research to inform relevant policy; with specific experience in hydrology. The successful candidate will also have demonstrated proficiency in stakeholder engagement and communication; project conceptualisation, implementation and reporting; and demonstrated ability to work as part of a dynamic team. Project Start-Date: Project Duration: Conditions:
16th February 2015 1 year Salary: €33,975
Pension contribution: €6,795*
*The appointee will not become a member of the public service pension scheme and the pension contribution will only be paid where an approved PRSA is established by the appointee. Further information on the position may be obtained from Drs Rick Officer (
[email protected]), Roisin Nash (
[email protected]) or Ian O’Connor (
[email protected]).
Interested applicants should submit a detailed Curriculum Vitae including a personal statement as to how you meet the requirements of the post described to
[email protected] The Human Resources Department Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology Dublin Road Galway Ireland. Telephone No. + 353 91 742766/742767 Latest date for receipt of completed application is: 12 noon on Wednesday, 14th January 2015. It is anticipated that interviews will take place on Thursday, 22nd January 2015. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. The Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from people with a disability. Cuirfear fáilte roimh chomhfhreagras trí Ghaeilge.
