Research Assistant

Schools of Engineering and of Computer Science, and Data Science Institute, Insight Centre

 Ref. No. 011185

 JOB ADVERTISEMENT

 Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for a full-time, fixed-term position as a Research Assistant with the Insight Centre, located within the Data Science Institute at the University of Galway, Ireland.

This position is funded by Research Ireland and Ward & Burke Construction Ltd and is available from earliest possible commencement date for a period of 12 months.

  • The Insight SFI Research Centre for Data Analytics is one of the largest data analytics centres in Europe.  See https://www.insight-centre.org/.
  • At the Data Science Institute (DSI), we research technologies at the convergence of Computer Science, Web Science and Artificial Intelligence to build a fundamental understanding of how information and knowledge are increasingly driving society through digital processes, and of the tools, techniques and principles supporting a data-enhanced world. See https://www.universityofgalway.ie/dsi.
  • The School of Computer Science was initially established in 1991 as the Information Technology Discipline, and became a School in 2019, recognising its growth and significance. Our staff currently include 34 academic faculty, 6 support staff and over 50 research staff. In the Times Higher Education world university rankings by subject, Computer Science at University of Galway is ranked first/second in Ireland. See https://www.universityofgalway.ie/science-engineering/school-of-computer-science
  • At the School of Engineering, our School members are research pioneers, advancing knowledge and creating solutions that have a positive impact on society. We consistently contribute ground-breaking solutions to real-world problems. See https://www.universityofgalway.ie/science-engineering/engineering/civil-engineering/

Salary: Research Assistant salary scale €32,962- €42,943 per annum, (subject to the project’s funding limitations), and pro rata for shorter and/or part-time contracts.

The default position for all new public sector appointments is the 1st point of the salary scale. This may be reviewed, and consideration afforded to appointment at a higher point on the payscale (subject to the project’s funding limitations), where evidence of prior years’ equivalent experience is accepted in determining placement on the scale above point 1, subject to the maximum of the scale.  (Research Salary Scales – University of Galway)

Closing date for receipt of applications is 17:00 (Irish Time) on 21 Aug 2025. It will not be possible to consider applications received after the closing date.

 Optional: Interviews are planned to be held late August 2025.

 *Please review full job description for further details and essential requirement

 JOB DESCRIPTION

 Job Description:

The successful candidate will be part of a project team with substantial expertise and ongoing research in this area: 2 PIs, 2 Research Assistants, and 2 PhD students, and collaborators in Ward & Burke Construction Ltd and in University of Cambridge, UK.

The research programme will be in Machine Learning (ML) for Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Operation. Ward & Burke Ltd. operate a number of large-scale WWTPs in Ireland and elsewhere. A WWTP uses multiple treatment processes in order to meet environmental standards. The overall goal of the overall project is to operate plants more efficiently, using less electricity, reducing emissions of all types from the processing, while meeting strict regulatory standards on outflow water.

Duties: What the successful candidate will do attached to the specific post:

  • Review existing research;
  • Participate in regular meetings and discussion with the project team (in-person and online meetings; via email and other online channels);
  • Gather and pre-process data;
  • Contribute to coding and development of machine learning, simulation and optimisation models;
  • Contribute to publications in international conferences and journals;
  • Contribute to development and delivery of continuous professional development classes for Ward & Burke Construction Ltd ;
  • Engage in wider research and scholarly activities of the research group, including journal clubs, reviewing;
  • Engage in training and professional development appropriate to the candidate’s level and background, such as research ethics training, technical training;
  • Any other duties assigned commensurate to this level of post.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

 Essential Requirements:

  • Minimum of Primary Degree (level 8) in Computer Science, Civil Engineering, or cognate discipline;
  • Knowledge of statistics and machine learning / statistical learning;
  • Experience of  research  at  an  appropriate  level,  such  as  participation  in  lab  modules, dissertations, and literature review;
  • Excellent written communication skills, demonstrated through first-authored research documents such as a dissertation or research paper.

Desirable Requirements:

  • Ability to self-start projects;
  • Excellent oral communication skills including ability to discuss research papers in detail;
  • Experience in research presentation;
  • Attention to detail and professional attitude in dealing with co-workers, supervisors, and industry collaborators.

CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

 Continuing Professional Development/Training:

Researchers at University of Galway are encouraged to avail of a range of training and development opportunities designed to support their personal career development plans. University of Galway provides continuing professional development supports for all researchers seeking to build their own career pathways either within or beyond academia. Researchers are encouraged to engage with our Researcher Development Centre (RDC) upon commencing employment – see HERE for further information.

Further Information/Links

 To apply: Search Current University of Galway vacancies. Applications must be submitted online.

o  How to apply guide