Job Summary
Maynooth University is seeking a dedicated Post Doctoral Researcher to join the Forest Ecology and Global Change lab within the Department of Biology. The successful candidate will work on the “Ancient Woodlands Ireland” research project, a multidisciplinary initiative funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine, and the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Position Details
- Designation: Post Doctoral Researcher
- Department: Biology
- Research Area: Forest Ecology, Global Change, and Soil Microbiome
- Location: Maynooth University, Ireland
- Salary: €47,273 per annum (1 point)
Project Overview
The Ancient Woodlands Ireland project combines existing methodologies with novel approaches to deliver an all-island Ancient Woodlands Inventory. Drawing on expertise in GIS, remote sensing, paleoecology, contemporary ecology, and history, the project assesses temporal changes in woodland cover over the last 400 years to enhance protection and restoration efforts.
Job Description
The appointee will work primarily with Dr. John Devaney and Prof. Fiona Walsh on Task 5 of the project, focusing on the assessment of ancient woodland plant and soil indicators. Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting vegetation surveys at selected ancient and recent woodland sites across Ireland.
- Supplementing new data with existing national forest vegetation datasets to generate ancient woodland indicator plant species lists.
- Evaluating the potential use of soil microbiome data as an indicator of woodland ancientness.
- Extracting DNA from soil samples and comparing soil microbiomes using phylogenetic cluster analysis.
Eligibility & Qualifications
While specific degree requirements are typically a PhD in Biology, Ecology, or a related field for postdoctoral roles, the candidate must demonstrate expertise in:
- Field-based vegetation surveys and ecological data collection.
- Laboratory skills related to DNA extraction and microbiome analysis.
- Experience with GIS, remote sensing, or phylogenetic cluster analysis is highly desirable.
- Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team environment.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the Maynooth University eRecruitment portal. Candidates are advised to read the eRecruitment Applicant Guidelines before starting their application. MU Staff must be logged in through ESS to apply.
Click here to apply for this position
Last Date for Application
Monday, 23rd November 2026 (23:30 local Irish time)
Note: Late applications will not be accepted. Any applications in progress at the closing time will be automatically cancelled by the system.
