Basic Function:

Research Technologist to support the development, coordination, and evaluation of a national demonstration farm network focused on farm career progression and collaborative farming. The role will involve working directly with participating farmers, collecting and managing relevant data, supporting communication activities, and dissemination of practical findings to industry stakeholders. 

Background:

Teagasc Moorepark is Ireland’s National Dairy Research Centre and a global leader in pasture-based dairy systems research. As part of the Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Programme (AGRIP), Teagasc’s largest research programme, Moorepark integrates animal, grassland, and farm systems research with socio-economic and knowledge transfer activities. The centre works to improve the profitability, environmental sustainability, and overall resilience of Irish dairy farms, with strong collaboration between research, advisory, and industry partners.

The GROdairy project (Generational Renewal Opportunities for Dairy Farm Businesses), coordinated from Teagasc Moorepark, builds on this foundation to address the critical challenges of generational renewal and career progression in Irish dairy farming. The project focuses on developing and demonstrating practical pathways for farmers to step up, step back, and collaborate across different stages of their careers. Central to the initiative is a national demonstration farm network, showcasing examples of progression models and collaborative farming arrangements. The appointee will develop and coordinate this network, collect and manage data, and work closely with farmers, advisors, and industry stakeholders to communicate findings and promote the adoption of best practices across the sector. Travel to commercial farms and events across Ireland will be required.

• Development and coordination of a network of demonstration farms.
• Work closely with participating farmers with planning, and implementation of collaborative farming arrangements.
• Data collection and handling, and excellent record keeping.
• Dissemination of research findings and management practices to farmers and other stakeholders.
• Liaise with Teagasc advisors, discussion group facilitators, and relevant service providers to support programme delivery.
• Support the organisation of farm walks, clinics, and knowledge exchange events.
• Assist in the production of newsletters, case studies, and digital content to share programme insights.
• 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.

Note:  Alternative location(s) may be considered solely at the discretion of Teagasc management.