UCD School of Biosystems Engineering

UCD Biosystems Engineering - Smart Systems Unit (SSU)

The Smart Systems Unit (SSU) is based within the UCD School of Biosystems Engineering, and specialises in the use of sensors, data management and communication systems to optimise the performance of agri-food and biomass-to-energy systems. Its portfolio of research projects is broad, including, inter alia, animal biometrics (face and other feature recognition) for animal identification, RFID and data analyses/communication for product chain traceability, hyperspectral imaging for biological material characterisation, GIS and satellite-based tracking technologies, and smart phone apps for delivery of real-time information to end-users.

This is a unique opportunity for high calibre graduates in electronic engineering, computer science or other relevant engineering or science disciplines to work in a highly research active group, and to interact with industry on some very exciting “frontier” projects. The internees will work in a dynamic environment, where “blue skies” thinking shall be a key driver; with a particular focus on solving technological challenges, and evaluating potential commercial applications (either direct or collateral). In some instances, the team shall be working in collaboration with industry partners. Team work, presentation skills and ability to foster links with industry partners are important attributes of each internee. The team requires high quality, enthusiastic, energetic and highly motivated graduates to work in a truly dynamic environment.

Applicants should have a good honours degree in electronic engineering, computer science or other relevant discipline, particularly other branches of engineering or physics. Skills of particular interest include: systems design; software development; sensing technologies; electronic hardware design; GIS and associated mapping; communications/data transfer systems; data encryption. This is not an exhaustive list, and above all, graduates must show innovative thinking, and an energy and enthusiasm that will ensure their work is of the highest standard, and delivered in a professional manner.

In addition to the internship, graduates will be required to register for a Masters degree, and work on a specified research topic. They will also get an opportunity to spend a short period (ca. 1 month) at a leading research group in the USA. These internships are for 12 months, and offer a monthly stipend of €1000. Fees for the Masters are paid in addition to this. As some of the work may be commercially sensitive, all internees will be required to sign a Non Disclosure Agreement (NDA). Each internee’s progress will be closely monitored, and successful internees may be offered a follow-on placement or the option of a scholarship for a PhD programme.

Applications, by e-mail only, to:

Professor Shane Ward

UCD Biosystems Engineering

shane.ward@ucd.ie