Trinity is Ireland’s leading university and is ranked 87th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2024). Founded in 1592, the University is steeped in history with a reputation for excellence in education, research, and innovation, which has been inspiring generations of thinkers for over 400 years.
This post is a research assistant role in Plant-Soil Function group at Trinity College Dublin (Botany Department) led by Dr Richard Nair. The holder will primarily contribute to a project about understanding the controls of soil respiration – the release of climate-warming CO2 from soil systems, via its component sources such as roots and microbes – by developing and maintaining both custom and off-the-shelf instruments in field operation.
We have developed custom built ‘minirhizotron’ instruments to image roots in situ. The purpose of this role is to work with existing designs, review these for fit-for-purpose in new instrumental set ups, and improve and maintain them during ongoing implementation in ecosystem experiments. The holder will also be involved in developing other new instruments and building and maintaining them for field use. Field sites are in Ireland although there may be potential for additional field work abroad. During the role, it is likely the holder will be involved in developing ways to disseminate the technology to other users, potentially via spin-up development.
The successful candidate will be embedded in a dynamic and interdisciplinary project team, including scientists at different career stages. The exact tasks of the role may change during the project.
Application Procedure
Applicants should submit a full Curriculum Vitae, including the names and contact details of 2 referees and a letter of interest (max 1 page), to:- Richard Nair
richard.nair@tcd.iewith the subject line ‘2025 Research Assistant application’
At Trinity, we are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Trinity welcomes applications from all individuals, including those applicants with disabilities, those who may have had non-traditional career paths, those who have taken time out for reasons including family or caring responsibilities. We also welcome international applicants including those who have been displaced due to war.
Trinity College Dublin is Ireland’s premier University. We are an EU Sustainable Gender Equality Champion and we hold an Athena Swan Silver award, recognising our ongoing work to advance gender equality both within Trinity and in the Higher Education sector. Trinity is committed to supporting work-life balance and to creating a family-friendly working environment.