Senior Postdoctoral Researcher – High efficiency thermoelectric generator

Tyndall National Institute; Cork; On-site; EUR 52,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institute seeks a Senior Postdoctoral Researcher to develop high-efficiency thermoelectric materials and systems for converting waste heat into electricity. The role involves innovative research, collaboration with international partners, and contribution to academic publications. Candidates should have a PhD and significant experience in materials chemistry, with strong skills in electrochemistry and characterization techniques.

Qualifications

• PhD required in a relevant field.
• At least 8 years of hands-on electrochemistry experience.
• Strong background in materials chemistry and thermoelectric characterization.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate nanostructured thermoelectric materials and validate.
• Collaborate with international partners and disseminate research.
• Supervise postgraduate students.

Skills

Materials Chemistry

Electrochemistry

Experimental Skills

Analytical Characterization Techniques

Education

PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, or related field

Tools

Thermal Characterization Techniques

Electrochemical Fabrication Techniques

Job description

Senior Postdoctoral Researcher – High efficiency thermoelectric generator
Contract: Full Time/Fixed Term

The Advanced Energy Materials group at Tyndall National Institute, University College Cork, offers a PhD position in the "Development of hybrid energy conversion systems for converting waste industrial heat into electricity."

The group specializes in energy conversion and storage materials, focusing on thermoelectric technologies. We seek a motivated applicant with a strong materials chemistry background.

Key Responsibilities and Research Objectives

Industries with high-temperature processes lose over 50% of their energy as waste heat, representing about 200 TWh annually in Europe. Although various technologies exist to convert waste heat into electricity, their adoption at an industrial scale is limited by efficiency, cost, and integration challenges. This project aims to develop a hybrid system combining thermophotovoltaics, metasurface collectors, and thermoelectric generators to efficiently harvest energy from waste heat and integrate it into production lines.

The position focuses on developing high-efficiency thermoelectric materials and interfaces, modeling thermoelectric generators, and characterizing the developed modules. The work involves collaboration with the IFW Dresden team, utilizing advanced thermal characterization techniques, and working with the INFERNO consortium.

Key Responsibilities

• Fabricate nanostructured thermoelectric and multi-layer interface materials using chemical techniques.
• Perform thermoelectric characterization and validation of materials.
• Analyze results, report findings, and collaborate with project partners.
• Disseminate research through conferences and publications.
• Supervise or assist postgraduate students.
• Engage with national and international academic and industrial partners.
• Contribute to future research initiatives and proposals.

Other Responsibilities

• Participate in education and public engagement activities.
• Ensure compliance with Tyndall's Quality Management and Health & Safety standards.
• Perform additional duties as required.

Essential Criteria

• PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, or related field.
• Strong background in Materials Chemistry and Electrochemistry.
• At least 8 years of hands-on experience in electrochemistry fabrication techniques.
• Experience in thermoelectric characterization techniques.
• Knowledge of electrical and thermal characterization methods (desirable).
• Understanding of chemical lab safety protocols.
• Ability to validate experimental results against current standards and simulations.
• Motivation, academic excellence, and good communication skills.

Desirable Criteria

• Entrepreneurial experience and creativity.
• Engagement in broader research activities.
• Self-motivated with strong experimental skills.
• Proficiency in analytical characterization techniques and teamwork.
• Experience in thermo-mechanical modeling and simulation.

Salary will be on the IUA Scale for Senior Postdoctoral Researcher (€52,715– €57,332 per annum), in accordance with public sector pay policy.

For informal inquiries, contact Dr. Kafil M. Razeeb.

Application deadline: 11th July 2025.

Application Instructions: Attach an updated CV and a brief motivation letter addressing the 'Essential Criteria'.

Note: Garda vetting and/or police clearance may be required. The university may make additional appointments post-selection. Appointment is subject to university approval and employment policies.

Tyndall National Institute does not currently engage recruitment agencies. We are an Equal Opportunities Employer.