Basic Function

Teagasc invites applications for a forestry technologist to work on the DAFM funded FitForests project which aims to provide critical information to assess the ability of key forest tree species in Ireland to adapt to climate change. The research will collect new and important information on the adaptability of Irish forests to climate change to provide up to date information on the best provenances and seed origins adapted for future Irish climatic conditions. A number of key forest species will be assessed, such as Sitka spruce, Norway spruce, Douglas fir, Oak, Beech, Cherry and Sycamore. Species and provenance trials will be assessed, and the data will be analysed to determine if certain provenances are more suited in altered climatic conditions.

This is a great opportunity for the successful candidate to work in a team environment and get experience valuable in the compilation of tree species and provenance information from experimental trials throughout Ireland and involve field data collection, data analysis and report writing. The ideal candidate should have experience working in forestry research and be familiar with both data collection and measurement protocols for forest research and understand the effects of climate on tree growth. Experience with data analysis and understanding of temperate forest species is an essential requirement.  The role will involve working closely with the project coordinator and wider project team/stakeholders so good organisational skills, project management and a demonstrated capacity to deliver on objectives and research tasks and teamwork are essential. An ability to communicate the research findings to the project team and relevant stakeholders and internal and external groups is an essential part of the role.

Background

Teagasc, the Agriculture and Food Development Authority, undertakes research, advisory and education activities in support of Ireland’s agri-food sector and wider bioeconomy. The Forestry Development Department provides integrated research, advisory and training programmes to support the sustainable development of forestry in Ireland.The successful candidate will contribute to FitForests project, a major national research initiative funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM).This is an exciting opportunity to build a wide range of experiences and assist to provide important information on the adaptability of Irish forests to climate change. It will focus on identifying tree species and provenances suited to current and future climates.This is a research-focused role, providing excellent opportunities for the successful candidate to further develop their research, technical and analytical skills within a multidisciplinary forestry research programme. Working closely with senior research staff and project partners, the successful candidate will experience and contribute to field research activities and reporting across several project work packages.This is a research role, the primary purpose is to provide early career scientists with the opportunity to significantly develop their research skills and competencies. The successful candidate will work in conjunction with senior research staff, gain insight and experience into a variety of areas including the processes of project management, publishing in peer-reviewed academic journals, the development of active collaboration with relevant national and international research communities; the development of communication and presentation skills, leadership and management skills, and overall career development. The position will be based in Teagasc, Mellows centre, Athenry, Co. Galway

• Compile historical provenance data from a range of provenance trials for species in Ireland and Northern Ireland.
• Assess species and provenance performance in provenance tests.
• Perform data analysis, reporting of results and provide an assessment of adaption of tree species for future climates. 
• Assist with drought assessment study to include tree ring analysis of various important tree species.
• Assist with setting up of new provenance trials for Douglas fir, Sitka spruce, Birch and Alder.
• Assist in the completion of project tasks including project meetings, project activities and assistance with PhD related study.
• Communication of project related activities with a list of relevant stakeholders (Stakeholder Advisory Group) and internal and external groups.
• To assist Teagasc in meeting the commitments of the Quality Customer Service Charter and Action Plan.
• To actively participate in the annual business planning and Performance Management Development System (PMDS) processes.
• 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.
• Any other duties as may be assigned from time to time

* This job specification is intended as a guide to the general range of duties and is intended to be neither definitive nor restrictive.  It will be reviewed from time to time with the post holder.

 Note:  The ‘essential’ qualifications, knowledge, skills and behavioural competencies outlined above are ‘must-have’ which will be used in the selection process.

Gender, Diversity and Inclusion

At all levels in Teagasc, we believe in growing and keeping alive an open, diverse and inclusive workplace which is respectful to all and nurtures different perspectives, for the benefit of all in the organisation.

We are committed to the principles of 'Equal Opportunities, No Barriers, Active Inclusion'.

We actively welcome applications from people from diverse backgrounds.