Researcher in Laser Technology
NCLA, School of Physics
National University of Ireland Galway
Ref. No. NUIG 14-14
Applications are invited from suitably qualified applicants for a 12 month fixed-term contract
position at the National Centre for Laser Applications (NCLA) at NUI Galway.
Suitable candidates will be required to support the development and implementation of
applied research & commercialisation projects based on the application of laser
technology for advanced manufacturing. Candidates should have a degree in
laser/optical technology or a relevant discipline and a postgraduate degree is preferred.
The person must have a proven track record of technical achievement and to have
demonstrated a capability for performing research. Some experience of industrial
process development and industry-based experience is desirable.
Experience of research commercialisation and the use of laser and optical technologies
for advanced manufacturing will be an advantage. Hands-on skills in research hardware
development and instrumentation, such as Labview control, is preferred.
Availability to travel for short term assignments to project partners within Ireland and
internationally is required.
Job description:
This position will involve the research & development of laser based applications in the field
of laser materials processing and related photonic technologies. It is a applied research role
with a focus on deliverables for both internal and industry supported projects. It is envisaged
that the Researcher will be a person who:
 Can work on scientific and industrial research projects to the highest standards.
 Has good hands-on technical ability and with a proven track record of technical
achievements in most of the following areas: laser technology, industrial automation,
optics, image processing/machine vision, instrumentation control preferably Labview,
electronics, and polymer processing.
 Has experience of manufacturing processes.
 Can work on a number of projects simultaneously within tight deadlines.
 Is highly motivated.
 Has excellent communication skills.
 Has experience of good laboratory practice
 Has experience of working in or with industry.
Main duties and responsibilities:
The duties of the Researcher in Laser Technology are as follows:
 Develop and work on laser–based applied research projects as directed by the Centre
Manager
 Hands-on development of laser based processes and related hardware
 Enhancement and Maintenance of NCLA equipment
 Development of procedures and quality systems
 Interact with industrial clients
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Assist in the development of laser workstations
Assist in the provision of laser based research services to industry
Contribute to the further development of the Centre based on the NCLA Development
Strategy and Research Agenda.
It should be noted that certain project assignments may require the Researcher to be
seconded to client sites for short term periods.
Qualifications:
 Degree in laser/optical technology or relevant technical discipline
 Evidence of research & development capability such as technical deliverables and
academic/technical publications
 Experience in both independent and collaborative research;
 Excellent verbal and written communication skills (English language)
 Track record of technical achievement
Desirable skills and experience:
 Postgraduate degree in relevant technical discipline
 Experience of industrial process development environment in particular laser
materials processing
 Hands-on experience in research hardware and instrumentation development such
as Labview control
 Experience of research commercialisation
 Experience of laser or optical technology implementation in advanced manufacturing
 Evidence of scientific publication and dissemination of results at conferences
Salary: €27,679 – €46,255 per annum (public sector pay policy rules pertaining to new
entrants will apply)
Start date: As soon as possible or 1st May 2014 at the latest.
Interview Date: Interviews will take place between the 3rd March and 14th of March 2014
Further information on research and working at NUI Galway is available on Research at NUI
Galway
For information on moving to Ireland please see www.euraxess.ie
For informal enquiries regarding this position please contact Alan Conneely, NCLA,
NUIGalway via e-mail at alan.conneely@nuigalway.ie
To apply: Applications should be sent as a single file (in Word or PDF only) to
alan.conneely@nuigalway.ie and include; a covering letter stating the reason and suitability
for applying for this specific position, a full curriculum vitae, and the names and contact
details of at least three but not more than five referees who can be contacted for confidential
references.
Please put reference number NUIG 14-14 in subject line of e-mail when submitting
application.
Closing date for receipt of applications is 5pm, Friday 21st of February 2014.
National University of Ireland Galway is an equal opportunities employer