At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge project enhancing the sustainability of the food supply chain.
- Company: Ulster University, renowned for innovation and regional engagement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and commitment to gender equality.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and travel across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on food sustainability while developing advanced technologies.
- Qualifications: Degree in Computing or related field; experience in hardware/firmware solutions.
The predicted salary is between 33020 - 36654 £ per year.
Department: School of Computing, Engineering, and Intelligent Systems
Grade: 6/7 (£33,020 - £36,654)
Responsible to: Principal Investigator
Campus: Derry~Londonderry
Reference: (Full-Time, fixed term to 30th June 2029)
ABOUT US
We are a university with a national and international reputation for excellence, innovation and regional engagement, making a major contribution to the economic, social and cultural development of Northern Ireland. Our core business activities are teaching and learning, widening access to education, research and innovation and technology and knowledge transfer.
THE ROLE
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.
ABOUT YOU
- A degree or higher qualification in Computing, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related technology-focused discipline (sensor technologies, IoT) or equivalent.
- Practical and demonstrable experience in developing and implementing hardware / firmware solutions.
- Experience in project risk management, including developing and maintaining risk registers, implementing mitigation strategies, and escalating risks appropriately.
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, project management tools (e.g., Trello, the PEACEPLUS JEMs system, The INTERREG EMS system, etc.), and data visualisation software (e.g. Power BI).
- Willingness to travel regularly across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, including peripheral and rural areas with limited public transport, as required by the needs of the role.
Please find our employee benefits on our website. Ulster University holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advancing Gender equality in higher education. The University has a range of initiatives to support a family friendly working environment, including flexible working. The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities. Appointment will be made on merit.
Research Associate (TRACE) employer: Ulster University
Ulster University is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to excellence and innovation in education and research. With a focus on employee growth, the university offers a supportive work culture that promotes flexibility and inclusivity, alongside opportunities to engage in impactful projects like TRACE, which enhances sustainability in the agri-food sector. Located in Derry~Londonderry, employees benefit from a vibrant community and access to cutting-edge technology, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate (TRACE)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend events, and connect with alumni. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and role thoroughly. Understand their projects, values, and recent news. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or use online platforms. This will help you get comfortable with common questions and refine your responses, making you more confident when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate (TRACE)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Associate role. Highlight your relevant experience in computing, engineering, or IoT technologies, and don’t forget to showcase any practical projects you've worked on that align with the TRACE project.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the TRACE project and how your skills can contribute to enhancing the POAO supply chain. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since this role involves developing hardware and firmware solutions, be sure to mention any specific technologies or tools you’ve used. If you have experience with project management tools or data visualisation software, make that clear!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ulster University
✨Know Your Tech
Make sure you brush up on the latest technologies related to IoT and sensor technologies. Be ready to discuss your practical experience in developing hardware or firmware solutions, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Project Management Prowess
Familiarise yourself with project risk management concepts. Be prepared to share examples of how you've developed risk registers and implemented mitigation strategies in past projects. This shows you can handle the responsibilities of the role.
✨Data Visualisation Skills
Since the role involves data visualisation, ensure you have a good grasp of tools like Power BI. Bring examples of how you've used data visualisation software to support decision-making in previous roles.
✨Be Ready to Travel
As the job requires regular travel across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, be prepared to discuss your flexibility and willingness to travel. Highlight any previous experiences where you've had to adapt to different locations or environments.
