Research Engineer

Research Engineer
Contract: Full Time/Fixed Term

The Advanced Energy Materials group at Tyndall National Institute in University College Cork is offering a Research Engineer position in the “Development of hybrid energy conversion system for converting waste industrial heat into electricity”.

The Advanced Energy Materials group is a well-established team at Tyndall focused in the development of energy conversion and storage materials, specifically thermoelectric energy conversion technologies. We are seeking a highly motivated applicant with modelling and experimental background.

Key Responsibilities and research objectives
Energy intensive high temperature processing industries lost more than 50% of their energy as waste heat during the production, which accounts for 200 TWh of power each year in Europe. There are many technologies available for converting waste heat into electricity but at industry scale the adaptation of these solutions is scarce. Specific barriers such as efficiency and cost of these renewable technologies and difficulty in integrating these systems in the production lines limit their extensive adoption as heat recovery technologies in the industry. Innovative approaches to improve the efficiency with new modular technology are therefore urgently required that can be retrofitted in production lines to save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emission. The primary goal of this project is to develop a new hybrid platform system based on the integration of thermophotovoltaics, metasurface collector and thermoelectric generators, which will eventually contribute to a breakthrough in sustainable energy harvesting from industrial waste heat. With an innovative design strategy, all these components will be integrated to develop a modular, hybrid energy harvesting system that can be easily integrated into production lines for converting waste heat into usable electricity.

The main focus of this position will be twofold. The first is to develop a computer model for the thermoelectric generator module and INFERNO Hybrid system; comprising thermoelectric generator, thermophotovoltaic cell, metasurface and reflector components. The second, based on previous outcomes, is then to develop and characterise the full hybrid system.

The work will include, working closely with the team in Technological University Dublin, running the Advanced Energy Materials Lab facilities, different thermal characterisation techniques, such as thermoelectric and thermomechanical properties at various degrees based on project requirements. The candidate is also expected to work intensively with the TU Dublin group on other subjects close to the topics.

Other responsibilities

• Partner effectively with the project’s industrial and academic partners to advance the project.
• Utilise an independent approach to carry the project work forward.
• Rigorously disseminate research findings through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and project reports.
• Engage in appropriate training and development opportunities to enhance transferable skills, career and reputation.
• Participate in Education and Public Engagement activities, as required.
• Ensure all activities are compliant with the Tyndall Quality Management system.
• Ensure all activities are compliant with the required Health and Safety standards.
• Carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post.

Essential criteria

• Typically, a first master’s degree (or an equivalent international degree) in electrical and electronic engineering, materials engineering, mechanical engineering or related relevant discipline.
• Typically, 5 years’ experience in thermo-mechanical and thermoelectric properties.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently to a tight schedule.
• Excellent communication, organisation and interpersonal skills.

Desirable Criteria

• Evidence of entrepreneurial experience and creative skills/creativity
• Experience in thermo-mechanical modelling and simulation.
• Have experience in mechanical design or other topics close to the proposed research.
• Highly self-motivated with strong experimental skills.

Appointment may be made on the Grade 5 Admin V Scale (B) range € 50,799- € 62,303 per annum. Salary placement on appointment will be in accordance with public sector pay policy.

Tyndall National institute has a proactive entrepreneurial culture and we welcome applications from candidates who possess entrepreneurial and creative skills/experience, including the creation of technology start-ups.

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr. Kafil M. Razeeb
The closing date for applications is 1pm 6th June 2025

Application Instructions
Please make sure to attach an up-to-date CV/Resume AND a brief motivation letter outlining how you meet the ‘Essential Criteria’ for this role.

A full candidate information pack is available by clicking here.

Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.

Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on University approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector.

At this time, Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.
Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer.