Research Assistant – IMaR Technology Gateway

The IMaR (Intelligent Mechatronics and RFID) Research Centre at MTU Kerry is an applied research centre delivering expertise in the areas of hardware (mechatronics, robotics, control systems), software (data management and intelligent systems), IoT (RFID, sensors) and data analytics, for increased productivity in the manufacturing, agriculture and process sectors to our regional industry partners.

The IMaR Technology Gateway is IMaR’s outward facing business development arm which engages with and provides research and development support to Irish industry. The principal theme of IMaR is the synergy between mechanical, electronic, RFID and IIoT technologies for industrial applications in the highly technological manufacturing industry driven by new technology, innovation and global demand. The research activities within IMaR range from the development and integration of mechatronic and embedded systems, sensors, automation, instrumentation and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) to developing complete software solutions for intelligent systems.

IMaR Technology Gateway is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-27. IMaR Technology Gateway houses state-of-the-art research facilities and as part of the IMaR Research Centre provides:

  • Technology solutions for the close-to-market needs of Irish industry;
  • An open access point providing technology expertise which is industry relevant;
  • A portal to wider expertise on a national level through the Enterprise Ireland Technology Gateway Network.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants are required to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in electronic, mechanical, mechatronic engineering or equivalent. Recent graduates are encouraged to apply.

Candidates must demonstrate the following:

  • Excellent problem-solving skills and a keen interest in the development of mechanical and/or electronic and/or software-based solutions
  • Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills
  • Strong academic and technical report writing skills
  • Strong organisational skills and ability to manage resources
  • Ability to work independently on multiple tasks simultaneously
  • An ability to be relied upon to take ownership of technical problems and to progress product ideas and technical concepts to prototypes and final products

The following would be desirable:

  • Familiarity with academic and industrial research environments
  • A strong interest in emerging technologies and a strong motivation to develop a personal research profile and contribute to the ongoing success of the IMaR Research Centre.
  • A solid understanding of mechanical and manufacturing software technologies and applications

Job Role and Description

The successful candidate will work within a team of mechanical, automation, electronic and software engineers carrying out research for industrial clients across a variety of sectors. The successful candidate will be responsible for:

  • Equipment maintenance
  • Researching technical challenges presented by client companies
  • Designing and developing novel and creative technical solutions
  • Specifying and sourcing materials and equipment in consultation with suppliers and client companies, as appropriate
  • Writing reports for clients, prototyping and disseminating research results through technical publications
  • Identifying any intellectual property that might be developed during the research and assisting the university in managing it

Salary: Initially, this position is for 12 months, with potential for extension. A salary in the range €33,291 to €36,305 per annum will apply to this post, dependant on candidate qualifications and experience.

Application Procedure: All applications must be made online at www.mtu.ie/vacancies Interviews will be held in person, on-site in MTU Kerry South Campus facilities.

Location: This post is located at the IMaR Office, South Campus, MTU Kerry, however occasional visits will be made to collaborate with potential and existing industrial partners.

Citizenship Requirement: Candidates should note that eligibility to compete for posts is open to citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA) or to non-EEA nationals with a valid work permit. The EEA consists of the Member States of the European Union, United Kingdom along with Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. Swiss citizens under EU agreements may also apply

It is an offence under the Employment Permits Acts 2003 and 2006 for both an employer and an employee if a non-EEA National is in employment without an appropriate employment permit. Employment permit holders can only work for the employer named on the permit.

Informal enquiries: Informal enquiries ONLY to tom.fitzmaurice@mtu.ie

Closing date for applications is 1.00pm Tuesday, 9th September 2025

Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted.

The Human Resources Office, Munster Technological University, Tralee, Co Kerry

Telephone: +353 66 714 5613

Web Site: www.mtu.ie

Email: humanresourceskerry@mtu.ie

MTU is an Equal Opportunities Employer

IMaR Technology Gateway is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-27

To apply for this job please visit www.mtu.ie.