Permanent . A panel may be formed from which future similar vacancies may be filled; such a panel will remain active for a maximum period of 12 months.
Basic Function
Teagasc seeks to appoint a Senior Research Officer in Meat Science. The successful candidate will take on a key role in the development, management and leadership of the Teagasc meat research programme at national, European and International level. The role will have a wide remit with primary responsibility for developing an integrated and collaborative research programme incorporating animal production, genetics, meat processing, sensory analysis and consumer acceptance. The appointee will lead large competitive projects / programmes in meat science focusing on the application of fundamental knowledge of muscle biology, meat omics, meat technology, and meat quality. They will also be expected to build strong collaborative links with Meat Technology Ireland, and the wider meat industry via industry-commissioned research and development projects.
Background
The role of Teagasc is to support competitiveness and innovation in the food industry through a high quality and scientifically sound research programme and an effective technology transfer system. This role sits within the Teagasc Food Research Programme, which is delivered from two locations, Dublin (Ashtown), and Cork (Moorepark), and it covers a wide range of scientific disciplines. Through our links with other Teagasc research centres and with universities and research organisations in Ireland and abroad we have developed a broad whole-chain approach to meat research. This ranges from improved genetics, through on-farm factors to post mortem interventions and finally to innovative meat products, novel packaging and recovering value from meat processing streams.
The candidate will be expected to provide a leadership role in the development of the meat research programme at Teagasc, Food Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin 15.
Job Objectives
Develop, lead and manage an innovative meat research programme at national, European and international level, focused on the application of fundamental knowledge of muscle biology, meat omnics, meat technology and meat quality.
Attract significant competitively funded projects from Irish and European/international research funders.
Engage with industry to commercialise research output and/or develop collaborative research projects.
Develop an international profile in meat research through peer review publications.
Develop integrated and collaborative projects with other Teagasc animal and genetic research programmes, such as our Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Programme.
Manage staff, students and resources assigned to the programme and build a dynamic team of post-doctoral researchers to build critical mass in meat research.
To assist Teagasc in meeting the commitments of the Quality Customer Service Charter and Action Plan.
To actively participate in the annual business planning and Performance Management Development System (PMDS) processes.
Fully co-operate with the provisions made for ensuring the health, safety and welfare of themselves, fellow staff and non-Teagasc staff and co-operate with management in enabling Teagasc to comply with legal obligations. This includes full compliance with the responsibilities outlined in the Safety Statement.
Any other duties as may be assigned from time to time
* This job specification is intended as a guide to the general range of duties and is intended to be neither definitive nor restrictive. It will be reviewed from time to time with the post holder.
Skills Required
Essential
Desirable
Qualifications
At the time of applying, candidates must have
A QQI honours Level 8 degree in a relevant scientific discipline
and:
A PhD in Meat Science, Food Science, Animal Science, or a related discipline.
Note: While a PhD is an essential requirement for this post, equivalent research experience may be deemed acceptable solely at the discretion of the Director of Teagasc
Knowledge/Skills
Expertise in meat science and a range of research methodologies attested by independent research reputation and/or national recognition.
Deep understanding of the broader context for meat research, including regulatory aspects and the meat industry.
Independent research reputation and national recognition of achievements.
Strong publications’ record with clear evidence of scientific leadership.
Expert knowledge of the technologies available to support research.
Ability to produce a body of work that is of a high standard in terms of both precision and conceptual quality.
Demonstrated evidence of excellence in scientific communication with strong ability to disseminate knowledge, technologies and techniques, using a broad range of media, channels and formats.
Strategic awareness and innovation skills.
Capacity to successfully develop collaborative links with national and international research organizations and stakeholders.
Post-Doctoral experience in meat science or a closely related discipline.
Excellent knowledge and experience in meat science with industry relevance.
Proven record of supervision and mentoring students/early stage researchers.
Behavioural Competencies
Ability to think strategically and to promote innovation.
A leader with scientific expertise and an ability to produce a body of work that is unilaterally recognised for its quality, excellence and impact.
A demonstrated ability to collaborate at national/international level.
Ability to work as part of a team, including consulting, collaborating and building relationships with key stakeholders.
Ability to communicate effectively to enable knowledge and technology transfer.
Credible, with excellent inter-personal skills and an ability to positively persuade and influence others towards appropriate courses of action.
Ability to work independently, to meet self-imposed milestones and deliverables.
Ambition and drive, with a willingness to initiate new projects and research areas, to align personal research and personal development objectives with departmental, centre, and organizational objectives.
Other
This role may require occasional travel to other locations around the country. It is therefore preferable (but not essential) that candidates would satisfy and continue to satisfy during employment with Teagasc, legal requirements to drive unaccompanied on Irish public roads.
Teagasc is Ireland's national organisation providing integrated research, advisory and training services to the agriculture and food industry. This is a key role in the development and leadership of the Teagasc meat research programme at national, European and International level.
