Research Assistant - Centre for Landscape Studies
Ref. No. NUIG 037-15
The Centre for Landscape Studies at NUI Galway wishes to appoint a part-time, fixed-term research assistant to
assess the capacity and potential for the expansion and development of research and training programmes in
landscape studies at NUI Galway. The inter- and transdisciplinary nature of the landscape paradigm transcends
traditional discipline boundaries and presents a unique challenge and an opportunity for the University.
The Centre for Landscape Studies was established in 1990 to promote the interdisciplinary study of landscape in its
physical, cultural, social and ecological aspects. Initially, the Centre focused on five key research areas: Sociology of
landscape, Landscape and environment, Landscape and myth, Landscape and colonialism and Landscape today –
evolution and future prospects. While such still describe the concerns of landscape researcher worldwide, current
researchers also emphasise place-making and sustainability. The government’s Draft National Landscape Strategy for
Ireland 2014-2024 provides a policy context for such an initiative, identifying as key goals dedicated research
capacity, education delivery, and projects situated in and run collaboratively with communities.
NUI Galway is the only Irish member of Uniscape, a network of more than 50 universities across Europe dedicated to
the implementation of the European Landscape Convention (also known as the Florence Convention). These
universities are united by a common commitment to landscape research and education.
The post is available for a fixed-term 13-month contract 20 hrs. per week
In this role you will:
 Work under the supervision of, and report to, the Director of the Centre for Landscape Studies.
 Assess and appraise the existing landscape capacity at NUI Galway.
 Appraise the regional, national and international context in which amplified capacity in landscape at NUI Galway
would operate.
 Investigate, via the Uniscape network, how landscape teaching and research is arranged in other Universities.
Organise workshops around same.
 Map out funding opportunities available to a landscape initiative at NUI Galway.
 Develop and cost models of dedicated landscape capacity/provision at NUI Galway, including postgraduate
programmes.
 Assist in the organisation of the International Conference on Landscape Values (June 2016).
 Organise the establishment of a Steering Committee and meetings of same.
 Contribute, as appropriate, to developing research capacity in the area of landscape studies at NUI Galway
 Develop funding proposals as appropriate.
 Be expected to carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and
level of the post.
Qualifications and Experience:
Candidates will have:
• A PhD or equivalent professional experience, in a relevant landscape/interdisciplinary discipline.
• An ability to work effectively and in a mutually supportive manner within an interdisciplinary team of
researchers.
• Excellent communication (written and verbal) and presentation skills.
• High levels of initiative, commitment to deadlines and team interaction.
Employment permit restrictions apply for this category of post
Salary: €29,922 per annum, pro-rata for this part-time, contract post.
Start date: June 2015
For informal discussion about this post please contact Dr Conor Newman conor.newman@nuigalway.ie
To Apply:
Candidates are requested to submit a cover letter, CV (Word or PDF format only) and the names and addresses of
three referees via e-mail to martha.shaughnessy@nuigalway.ie
Please put reference number NUIG 037-15 in subject line of e-mail application.
Closing date for receipt of applications is 5pm on Monday 18th May 2015.
Interviews are planned to be held during the week beginning 25th May 2015.
National University of Ireland Galway is an equal opportunities employer.