At a Glance
- Tasks: Support innovative tech pilots in the TRACE project for sustainable agri-food supply chains.
- Company: Ulster University, leading a €5.89m cross-border project for sustainability.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, work with cutting-edge technology, and contribute to impactful research.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for professional growth and networking.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative project that enhances food supply chain efficiency and sustainability.
- Qualifications: Interest in technology, data analysis, and project coordination; relevant experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
The postholder will be responsible for supporting the Principal Investigator in the delivery of the TRACE (Technological Revolution towards an Agri-food Circular Economy) project in line with all contractual responsibilities of SEUPB.
Ulster University has secured €5.89m in funding through the PEACEPLUS programme, managed by the SEUPB to lead the TRACE project. TRACE is a cross-border project aimed at enhancing the efficiency, transparency and sustainability of the Products of Animal Origin (POAO) supply chain. The project will develop and apply a suite of advanced technologies to optimise key processes across the POAO value chain. This includes the use of multimodal imaging techniques, such as computer vision and hyperspectral imaging, alongside Internet of Things sensors that will continuously monitor critical parameters such as temperature, humidity and food quality in real time. The data captured through the deployment of these technologies will support more efficient, transparent, and sustainable supply chain operations.
To encourage adoption and maximise impact, TRACE will also establish a cross-border innovation hub offering both virtual and face-to-face support to SMEs. The hub will serve as a central resource for SMEs operating across the POAO supply chain and the wider agri-food sector, providing tools, guidance, and demonstrations to help them explore and implement innovative, technology-driven solutions that improve competitiveness and sustainability.
Main Duties
- Support the technical delivery of pilot activities within the TRACE project, including the planning, setup, installation, configuration, testing, troubleshooting, and monitoring of pilot technologies and related systems in collaboration with project partners and participating SMEs.
- Prepare and maintain technical and operational documentation relating to pilot installations including implementation plans, system specifications, operating procedures, pilot logs, progress updates, and technical reports.
- Coordinate with project partners, SMEs, and relevant stakeholders to support the effective implementation of pilot technology installations, ensuring activities are progressed in line with agreed work plans, timelines, and technical requirements.
- Support the collection, management, and analysis of data generated through pilot activities, and contribute to the development of research outputs and project evaluation under the direction of project partners and senior researchers.
- Collate, consolidate, and edit inputs for quarterly, interim and final reports, and manage the review and submission of pilot related project deliverables via the JEMS system.
- Support project governance and coordination activities, including External Advisory Board, Steering Committee, and Work Package Committee meetings as required, with the support of the Project Manager and other relevant stakeholders.
- Support project administration, procurement, budget monitoring and financial reporting processes in alignment with the Grant Agreement, Ulster University procedures and relevant programme requirements.
- Support the updating of the project risk register, assist with the implementation of risk mitigation strategies, as needed throughout the lifecycle of the TRACE project and elevate emerging risks to the Project Manager and Principal Investigator, as appropriate.
- Support all external communications, dissemination activities and the development of externally facing content relating to the TRACE project in collaboration with the Communications Lead and wider project team.
- Support engagement with relevant stakeholders in line with project requirements, and identify, initiate, and develop strategic relationships to support project delivery and maximise impact.
- Ensure the TRACE pilot activities adhere to the highest standards of integrity, complying with ethical approval processes, data protection regulations such as GDPR, and all relevant policies and requirements set by Ulster University, the SEUPB, and the Programme Manual.
- Any other duties appropriate to the grade and nature of the post.
Research Associate (TRACE Project) in Londonderry employer: Ulster University School of Computing
Ulster University is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration within the TRACE project. Employees benefit from a strong commitment to professional development, access to cutting-edge technology, and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful advancements in sustainability within the agri-food sector. Located in a vibrant academic setting, the university promotes a culture of inclusivity and support, ensuring that all team members can thrive and make a significant impact.
Contact Details:
Ulster University School of Computing Recruitment Team
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