Basic Function:

The successful candidate will conduct biodiversity, plant, and pollinator surveys across the Signpost Farms and compile biodiversity data to assess environmental performance.  They will undertake whole-farm pollinator assessments, provide participating farmers with feedback on agreed biodiversity enhancement actions, and support the implementation of measures to improve farmland biodiversity and above-ground carbon storage.  They will analyse and report programme-wide findings, identify opportunities for improvement, and work closely with farmers to develop and deliver targeted enhancement initiatives.  Progress and outcomes will be monitored through repeat assessments and annual monitoring of actions undertaken by the participating farmers.

Background:

The Signpost Farms project (Phase II) is an externally funded, fixed term (five years) project, which commenced in early 2026.  The aim of the project is to lead climate action in Irish agriculture through demonstration farms.  By showing what works in practice on a network of demonstration farms, and the measurable impact on emissions, biodiversity and profitability, the project seeks to influence and support farmers nationwide in adopting climate-smart, nature-positive measures.  The project aims to generate trusted evidence on participating demonstration farms, show what works in practice, share learnings and inspire other farmers to replicate actions, thereby leading to reduced GHG emissions, enhanced biodiversity and a more sustainable agricultural sector.

The Teagasc post-doctoral programme provides training and development opportunities for early career scientists that enhances their experience of learning and equips them with the necessary skills for the next stage of their chosen career in research.  Appointees to a Teagasc Post-Doctoral Fellowship will be required to undertake a Level 9 Professional Diploma in Researcher Development delivered by University College Dublin (UCD).

This professional diploma is a flexible, modular programme which embraces a blended learning approach to align with the Post-Doctoral Fellow's role in Teagasc.  It is designed to develop competencies and transferable skills in research, professionalism, communication and career development.  The majority of the programme is delivered online with the remaining elements delivered in-person at Teagasc locations.  This blended approach affords the Post-Doctoral Fellow the opportunity to meet and network with other Teagasc colleagues.  During the course of the diploma Post-Doctoral Fellows will have access to a full range of supports including the UCD library, writing centre and careers centre.

This is a research focused training role, the primary purpose of which is to provide early career scientists with the opportunity to develop their research skills and competencies. The Post-Doctoral Fellow will, while working in conjunction with senior research staff, gain insight and experience into a variety of areas including the processes of project and budgetary management, the development of active collaboration with relevant national and international research communities, the development of communication and presentation skills and possible experience in the mentorship of students.

The Post-Doctoral Fellow will conduct a specified programme of research, supported by a modular training programme, which will include modules of relevance for the development of specific knowledge and research skills, professionalism and communication skills, leadership and management skills, and overall career development. Modules will be conducted under the supervision and direction of the Tom O’Dwyer or other designated manager in conjunction with the Head of Department.

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Duties & Responsibilities specific to this project:

• To conduct biodiversity habitat assessments on all of the Signpost Farms, including:
  • identifying and mapping existing high diversity landscape features (HDLF) on the Signpost Farms;
  • conducting biodiversity surveys on participating farms, collecting data, and recording ecological observations;
  • co-ordinating the acquisition and management of biodiversity maps for farms, and liaising with mapping providers, advisors, and participating farmers; and
  • quantifying how pollinator-friendly the Signpost Farms are using the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan’s Whole Farm Pollinator scorecard; and
  • communicating the results of the assessment to each participating farmer.
• To report on project outputs and outcomes, including:
  • synthesising and summarising findings across the Signpost Farms Programme;
  • identifying key opportunities for biodiversity enhancement;
  • monitoring progress in implementation of recommended actions;
  • preparing technical reports, summaries, and recommendations; and
  • presenting findings to programme stakeholders and participating groups.
• To initiate a targeted biodiversity and above-ground carbon enhancement initiative on a subset of the Signpost Farms, including:
  • identifying a cohort of farmers to participate in the initiative (based on results from the first task above);
  • providing examples to farmers on how to improve habitats for pollinators on the farm; and
  • coordinating activities with this cohort of participating farmers.
• To identify synergies and co-benefits of biodiversity/ biodiversity improvement, including:
  • identifying synergies between biodiversity restoration measures and associated co-benefits i.e. carbon sequestration, soil health, climate adaptation, and protecting waterways; and
  • assessing above-ground carbon storage and existing carbon stocks (where feasible).
• To actively engage with advisors, farmers, researchers and project partners/ stakeholders, including:
  • disseminating findings to farmers via feedback reports, and with advisors and farmers via workshops and farm walks;
  • communicating the value of biodiversity to farmers, advisors and other programme partners/ stakeholders;
  • developing agreed action plans with participating farmers, and supporting the implementation of these plans;
  • advising farmers on practical biodiversity enhancement measures; and
  • participating in farm walks, open days, workshops, and stakeholder events.

 
Additional Duties & Responsibilities:

• To interpret research findings and prepare scientific and popular press publications.
• To disseminate research findings to a variety of audiences as appropriate.
• To assist Teagasc in meeting the commitments of the Quality Customer Service Charter and Action Plan.
• To comply with all relevant Teagasc policies and procedures.
• To complete all time records on SmartSimple in a timely manner.
• To fully co-operate with the provisions made for ensuring the health, safety and welfare of themselves, fellow staff and non-Teagasc staff and co-operate with management in enabling Teagasc to comply with legal obligations. This includes full compliance with the responsibilities outlined in the Safety Statement.
• To actively participate in the Teagasc Post-Doctoral Fellowship programme and review processes, and to undertake all Post-Doctoral Fellowship training and associated duties as agreed in the Training & Development Plan.
• To take up additional duties as they may arise and be assigned by management.

This section outlines the qualifications, skills, knowledge and/or experience that the successful candidate would be required to demonstrate for successful discharge of the responsibilities of the post.  Applications will be assessed on how well candidates satisfy these criteria.

Essential

• PhD in environmental science, agricultural science, natural sciences, or a related scientific discipline
• Relevant research experience not to exceed 3 years’ post-PhD
• Demonstrated research and technical expertise in:

1. Biodiversity monitoring/ assessment
2. Biodiversity-friendly farming practices
3. Understanding of Irish farming systems and the factors influencing environmental and economic performance

• Experience in collecting and organising data
• Evidence of research activity (publications, conference presentations, awards) and future scholarly output (working papers, research proposals etc)
• Excellent project management, analytical, report writing and data analysis skills
• An ability to collaborate with team members and PhD students to help build research knowledge and skill and to guide professional development
• Commitment to teamwork and collaborating with colleagues as per our Teagasc Together ethos
• Excellent communication skills (oral, written, presentation) with an ability to enable effective knowledge and technology transfer
• Ability to generate new ideas, unique concepts, models and solutions

Desirable

• Experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools, such as ArcGIS; and the Whole Farm Pollinator Scorecard
• Experience in setting own research agenda
• Evidence of teamwork and collaboration with relevant partners