Positions available in the School of Physics and elsewhere will be advertised here, although this list is not meant to be definitive.
For postgraduate opportunities within the School of Physics, please see the Opportunities section under Postgraduate.
The School welcomes applications for all positions advertised here from all qualified applicants, and applications are particularly encouraged from traditionally under-represented groups in Physics.
A three-year postdoctoral position in theoretical quantum physics is available to work with Prof. Paul Eastham, in the Quantum Light and Matter group (https://www.tcd.ie/physics/research/groups/qlamg/) at the School of Physics Trinity College Dublin. The work aims to investigate heat transfer and dissipation in quantum devices, using combinations of numerical and analytical approaches to design optimal methods for implementing quantum processes in devices such as superconducting circuits and diamond vacancies. The project involves collaboration with Profs. Brendon Lovett and Jonathan Keeling in the University of St Andrews in Scotland, as well as with leading experimental groups. Successful candidates will have a PhD in a relevant area of physics. Experience of working in area such as open quantum systems, optimal control, and solid-state qubits, especially superconducting circuits or diamond vacancies, would be beneficial. The project is theoretical but applicants with backgrounds in both experiment and theory are welcome. The ability and motivation to work with a variety of other researchers, including both theorists and experimentalists, is essential, and strong communication skills would be an advantage.
The appointment will be at level 2A/2B (New Postdoctoral Researcher/Experienced Postdoctoral Researcher) of the SFI Team Member scale depending on experience. The starting salary will be E42,000-48,000 (2A) or E50,000 (2B). The position is available immediately and would ideally start no later than 1st March 2023, but flexibility is possible.
Applications should send a CV, including publications list and the name of two referees, to [email protected], along with a cover letter explaining their interest in the position. Informal enquiries by email are welcome. All applications are welcome and applications from underrepresented groups encouraged. Applications will be considered until the post is filled.
A fully funded four-year PhD position in theoretical quantum physics is available to work with Prof. Paul Eastham, in the Quantum Light and Matter group (https://www.tcd.ie/physics/research/groups/qlamg/) at the School of Physics in Trinity College Dublin.
The work aims to investigate heat transfer and dissipation in quantum devices, using combinations of numerical and analytical approaches to design optimal methods for implementing quantum processes in devices such as superconducting circuits and diamond vacancies. The project involves collaboration with Profs. Brendon Lovett and Jonathan Keeling in the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, as well as collaboration with leading experimental groups. Successful candidates will have an undergraduate degree in Physics. Interest in quantum technology and areas such as open quantum systems, optimal control, and solid-state qubits, especially superconducting circuits or diamond vacancies, would be beneficial. The project is theoretical but an interest in both experiment and theory would be helpful. The ability and motivation to work with a variety of other researchers, including both theorists and experimentalists, is also beneficial, and strong communication skills would be an advantage.
The position is fully funded for an EU/UK applicant, covering fees and a tax-free stipend of E18,500 per annum. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to teach in the School for which additional payment is made. The position is available immediately and would ideally start no later than 1st March 2023, but flexibility is possible.
Applications should send a CV and the name of at least two referees, to [email protected] along with a cover letter explaining their interest in the position. Informal enquiries by email are welcome. All applications are welcome and applications from underrepresented groups encouraged. Applications will be considered until the post is filled.
The aim of the project is to develop photoinducible polymers for a range of applications. The candidate will work as a part of a highly interdisciplinary team of chemists, physicists, and material scientists. This targeted 18- month project will be hosted in the Science Foundation Ireland funded centre for Advanced materials and Bio-Engineering Research. The candidate will be based in the group of Professor Louise Bradley in the School of Physics, but will also work closely with Prof. Larisa Florea an expert in photoinducible materials and two-photon polymerization in the School of Chemistry. They will also collaborate closely with other project partners in the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland and AMBER.
The candidate will require skills in optical design, optical characterization of materials, in particular refractive index change and absorption, as well as the ability to develop optical testbeds to implement the photoinducible changes. The experimental part of the project will involve building a multi-wavelength two-photon absorption testbed to control the novel material properties as well as optical characterisation of the materials before and after laser treatment. The candidate must be experienced in building laser based optical measurement systems. The candidate is not required to have a strong knowledge of chemistry or photoinducible materials but expertise in optics and photonics is essential.
Requirements: A PhD in Physics or Engineering is an essential requirement. He/she will also have laboratory experience of building and testing optical characterization systems. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated expertise in photonic simulations using Lumerical, COMSOL or equivalent software. Excellent written and oral communication skills are also essential. It would be advantageous to have demonstrated leadership skills.
The appointment will be made for a senior post-doctoral researcher with an annual salary of €50000 per annum.
Interested applicants should submit a CV highlighting relevant experience, a full list of publications and a letter explaining your motivation for this position. The documents should be sent to Prof. Louise Bradley by email at [email protected].
The closing date is October 31st 2022.
The aim of the project is to develop new materials for human vision applications. The candidate will work as a part of a highly interdisciplinary team of chemists, physicists, and material scientists to develop novel photoinducible polymers for intra-ocular lens applications. This targeted 18- month project will be hosted in the Science Foundation Ireland funded centre for Advanced materials and Bio-Engineering Research and will include an industrial partner. The candidate will be based in the group of Professor Louise Bradley in the School of Physics, but will also work closely with Prof. Larisa Florea an expert in photoinducible materials and two-photon polymerization in the School of Chemistry. They will also collaborate closely with other project partners in the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland and AMBER, with expertise in chemical synthesis and bio-compatible materials.
The candidate will require skills in lens design, optical characterization of materials, in particular refractive index change and absorption, as well as the ability to develop optical testbeds to implement the photoinducible changes. The experimental part of the project will involve building a multi-wavelength two-photon absorption testbed to control the novel material properties as well as optical characterisation of the materials before and after laser treatment. The candidate must be experienced in building laser based optical measurement systems. There will also be a design and modelling component to the project to determine the impact of the material modification on lens performance in the eye environment. The candidate is not required to have a strong knowledge of chemistry or bio-materials but expertise in optics and photonics is essential.
Requirements: A PhD in Physics or Engineering is an essential requirement. He/she will also have laboratory experience of building and testing optical characterization systems. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated expertise in photonic simulations using Lumerical, COMSOL, Zeemax or equivalent software. Excellent written and oral communication skills are also essential. It would be advantageous to have demonstrated leadership skills.
Interested applicants should submit a CV highlighting relevant experience, a full list of publication and a letter explaining your motivation for this position. The documents should be sent to Prof. Louise Bradley by email at [email protected].
The closing date is September 5th 2022.
Salary: €41,025 - €67,890 (+ pension) per annum, depending on experience.Commencement before September 2022 (but negotiable, remote working by negotiation).Application will be reviewed as received.
A five-year Postdoctoral Research position is available in the research team of Prof. Stephen Dooley at the School of Physics, Trinity College Dublin.
Project: A Computational Chemist is sought to work on a European Research Council Consolidator Grant entitled Mod-L-T: Models for Lignocellulose Thermochemical Conversion. Mod-L-T creates the first detailed, elementary, mass- and energy-conserved chemical reaction kinetic model for lignocellulose pyrolysis. Pyrolysis is a promising method to produce valuable products from lignocellulose and the basic fundamental process of more complex thermochemical technologies, such as catalysis. Mod-L-T deciphers the elementary reaction mechanism and kinetics of lignocellulose pyrolysis by elucidating the mysterious molecular-level details of the reaction kinetics of hemicellulose and lignin structures.
The mechanism and kinetics of the pyrolysis reaction of hemicellulose and lignin functionalities will be rigorously and systematically determined by the study of model molecules of incrementally increasing structural complexity by a combination of experimental and theoretical means. Potential Energy Surfaces in the gas and solution phase will be determined by the M06-2X/6-311++G(d, p) or similar methodology with implicit and explicit solution modelling. This new fundamental knowledge is then assimilated for applications by the construction of detailed reaction kinetic models for hemicellulose, lignin and lignocellulose pyrolysis.
Role: working in a friendly and collaborative team, the primary duties of the postdoctoral researcher are:
Research Environment: You will join the research group of Prof. Stephen Dooley who work on various science aspects of the low-carbon energy transition. Established in 2014, and hosted in the School of Physics, the group will grow to approximately twenty researchers in 2022 and is funded by a portfolio of government and industry actors including the European Research Council, Science Foundation Ireland, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, Siemens Energy and Ryanair DAC. You will have opportunities to interact with other research groups within Trinity, where Sustainable Energy is an identified research thrust. You will have the opportunity to travel to disseminate your research and to interact with several collaborating institutions in the United States and Europe.
Working in a very supportive research environment, you will be mentored, encouraged and trained in the skills needed to achieve your career objectives.
Essential Requirements: The successful candidate will have:
Application: Prospective candidates should send a two page CV containing names and contact details of two referees and a 1-page letter outlining your interest in the position and relevant experience to Prof. Stephen Dooley at [email protected]. Please quote the entire job title in the subject line of your email. Applications will be evaluated as received and candidates of all demographics, educational backgrounds and genders that show a good record of academic achievements will be considered.
Salary: €41,025 - €60,814 (+ pension) per annum, depending on experience.Commencement before October 2021 (but negotiable).
A four-year Postdoctoral Research position is available in the research team of Prof. Stephen Dooley at the School of Physics, Trinity College Dublin, home of the Ryanair Sustainable Aviation Research Center. Ryanair is Europe’s largest airline and are committed to advancing the environmental sustainability of aviation. Ryanair have made a significant commitment to Trinity College Dublin to seed a program of scale in Research of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (aka, SAF). Led by ERC award holder Professor Stephen Dooley, this commitment enables the School of Physics to recruit an expert team of an Assistant Professor, two Experienced Postdoctoral Researchers and several PhD Students devoted to the task of making aviation sustainable.
Background: Prior to COVID-19, the contribution of global aviation to anthropogenic carbon emissions was 3.5% annually. Though this share is smaller than other sectors, it is a meaningful contribution, highly visible, and emitted by fleets of privately owned aircraft. However, unlike other sectors, aviation is highly constrained in measures that can lower this contribution. Due to technical, logistical and safety reasons, it is not expected that an alternative prime energy source other than liquid hydrocarbon fuels will be a viable technological or economic option for the reduction of aviation carbon emission even in the far, thirty year plus term. Thus, it is essential that the at-scale deployment of so-called “Sustainable” Aviation Fuels (SAFs) be dramatically accelerated from the 2018 base of < 0.04% of total aviation fuel utilisation.
Even if an economy of scale is achieved, it is very likely that SAFs will have a higher economic cost than petroleum or other fossil aviation fuels. It is thus essential that SAFs provide a greenhouse gas saving that is knowable within defined uncertainties, certifiable, and specific to the precise details of the entire production process of specific SAF production supply chains. For this, advanced life-cycle analysis calculation and supply-chain design methodologies are needed.
Project: Numerical models will be built that evaluate the greenhouse gas and economic intensity of the production supply chains of several specific SAFs currently available to market and possibly available in the future. To provide specific and known-confidence inputs to the models, close collaboration with the Ryanair SAF supply chain will be performed. Detailed characterisation of each component of the supply chain from “field-to-wake” for each specific SAF in the Ryanair fuel supply will be performed and fed into the LCA model producing the most rigorous analysis of SAF embodied greenhouse gas to date.
Role: working in a friendly and collaborative team, a postdoctoral researcher is sought to:
Research Environment: You will join the research group of Prof. Stephen Dooley who work on various science aspects of the low-carbon energy transition. Established in 2014, and hosted in the School of Physics, the group will grow to approximately twenty researchers in 2021 and is funded by a portfolio of government and industry actors including the European Research Council, Science Foundation Ireland, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, Siemens Gas Turbines and Ryanair. You will have opportunities to interact with other research groups within Trinity, where Sustainable Aviation is an identified thrust of the new E3 Research Institute (https://www.tcd.ie/e3/), and you will have the opportunity to travel to the laboratories of several collaborating institutions in the United States and Europe.
Working in a very supportive research environment, you will be mentored, encouraged and trained in the skills needed to achieve your career objectives. Multiple mentors will be available to help you navigate a career path and coach you in this.
Advantaged Requirements: knowledge or interest in some of the following will be a definite advantage:
Application: Prospective candidates should send a two page CV containing names and contact details of two referees and a 1-page letter outlining your interest in the position to Prof. Stephen Dooley at [email protected]. Please quote the entire job title in the subject line of your email. Applications will be evaluated as received and candidates of all demographics, educational backgrounds and genders that show a good record of academic achievements will be considered.
Salary: €41,025 - €67,890 (+ pension) per annum, depending on experience.Commencement before September 2022 (but negotiable).Application will be reviewed as received.
Project: An Experimentalist is sought to work on a European Research Council Consolidator Grant entitled Mod-L-T: Models for Lignocellulose Thermochemical Conversion. Mod-L-T creates the first detailed, elementary, mass- and energy-conserved chemical reaction kinetic model for lignocellulose pyrolysis. Pyrolysis is a promising method to produce valuable products from lignocellulose and the basic fundamental process of more complex thermochemical technologies, such as catalysis. Mod-L-T deciphers the elementary reaction mechanism and kinetics of lignocellulose pyrolysis by elucidating the mysterious molecular-level details of the reaction kinetics of hemicellulose and lignin structures.
A post-doctoral researcher is sought to acquire first of a kind isothermal kinetically limited observations of the rate and mechanism of the lignocellulose, hemicellulose and lignin pyrolysis solid/solution/gas phase reaction kinetics. Lignocelluloses are solids. This complicates the acquisition of isothermal kinetically limited chemical reaction data, as complications of heat and mass transfer both occur. An advance in the state-of-art in reactor design is needed to acquire breakthrough, entirely chemical kinetic, data at known reaction temperatures. The experimentalist will lead the design, fabrication and operation of a Thin Film Reactor for kinetic studies. A prototype reactor design has been conceived to; heat a <100 m film of lignocellulose to 600-1000 K at > 7250 K/s; measures the film temperature in-situ in real-time by optical pyrometry; determine the rate of reaction by mass measurement; and identify & quantify the fraction of evolved gases by GCxGC-MS. This arrangement will allow for first of its kind ms time-resolved, isothermal kinetically limited characterisation of the mechanism and kinetics of lignocellulose.
Position is available in the research team of Prof. Stephen Dooley at the School of Physics, Trinity College Dublin, in collaboration with Prof. Kim McKelvey at the School of Chemistry, Trinity College Dublin. The project investigates the physical and chemical processes controlling the selective electrochemical catalysis of carbon dioxide to methanol by the creation of an advanced multiphysics simulation.
Background: Electricity-to-Fuels, in which electrical energy generated from renewable sources is used as energy source for the synthesis of fuels from carbon dioxide (CO2) and water, is a technology that could interrupt the anthropogenic carbon cycle and significantly reduce net greenhouse gas emissions as required by the 2016 Paris Climate Agreement. Electricity-to-Fuels technologies (also known as Power-to-X or Electro-fuels) are fast-evolving but face several fundamental science challenges in their operation and market viability. Particularly, the production costs of an Electricity-to-Fuels approaches are highly dependent on the capital costs of the electrolyser and the electricity price. The design of the electrolyser is thus critical.
Project: This project will provide an experimental and computational platform with which to test, model and optimise the performance of CO2 electrolysis cells. A sophisticated multi-physics simulation of a CO2 electrolysis cell will be developed, incorporating electrochemical reaction kinetics, fluid mechanics, and transport of chemical species.
Role: A postdoctoral researcher is sought to join the research team comprising two Principal Investigators and two dedicated post-graduate students. Essential Requirements: The successful application will have:
How to Apply
For more details and how to apply see Full Job Specification
