Research Assistant - Centre for Landscape Studies

Ref. No. NUIG 037-15

The Centre for Landscape Studies at NUI Galway wishes to appoint a part-time, fixed-termresearch assistantto assess the capacity and potential for the expansion and development of research and training programmes in landscape studies at NUI Galway.The inter- and transdisciplinary nature of the landscape paradigmtranscends traditional discipline boundaries and presents a unique challenge and an opportunity for the University.

The Centre for Landscape Studies was established in 1990 to promote the interdisciplinary study of landscape in its physical, cultural, social and ecological aspects. Initially, the Centre focused on five key research areas:Sociology of landscape, Landscape and environment, Landscape and myth, Landscape and colonialism and Landscape today – evolution and future prospects. While such still describe the concerns of landscape researcher worldwide, current researchers also emphasise place-making and sustainability.The government’s Draft National Landscape Strategy for Ireland 2014-2024 provides a policy context for such an initiative, identifying as key goals dedicated research capacity, education delivery, and projects situated in and run collaboratively with communities.

NUI Galway is the only Irish member of Uniscape, a network of more than 50 universities across Europe dedicated to the implementation of the European Landscape Convention (also known as the Florence Convention). These universities are united by a common commitment to landscape research and education.

The post is available for a fixed-term 13-month contract 20hrs. per week

In this role you will:

  • Work under the supervision of, and report to, the Director of the Centre for Landscape Studies.
  • Assess and appraise the existing landscape capacity at NUI Galway.
  • Appraise the regional, national and international context in which amplified capacity in landscape at NUI Galway would operate.
  • Investigate, via the Uniscape network, how landscape teaching and research is arranged in other Universities. Organise workshops around same.
  • Map out funding opportunities available to a landscape initiative at NUI Galway.
  • Develop and cost models of dedicated landscape capacity/provision at NUI Galway, including postgraduate programmes.
  • Assist in the organisation of the International Conference on Landscape Values (June 2016).
  • Organise the establishment of a Steering Committee and meetings of same.
  • Contribute, as appropriate, to developing research capacity in the area of landscape studies at NUI Galway
  • Develop funding proposals as appropriate.
  • Be expected to carry out any additional duties as may reasonably be required within the general scope and level of the post.

Qualifications and Experience:

Candidates will have:

•APhD or equivalent professional experience,in a relevant landscape/interdisciplinary discipline.

•An ability to work effectively and in a mutually supportive manner within an interdisciplinary team of researchers.

•Excellent communication (written and verbal) and presentation skills.

•High levels of initiative, commitment to deadlines and team interaction.

Employment permit restrictions apply for this category of post

Salary: €29,922 per annum, pro-rata for this part-time, contract post. Start date: June 2015

For informal discussion about this post please contact Dr Conor

To Apply:

Candidates are requested to submit a cover letter, CV (Word or PDF format only) and the names and addresses of three referees via e-mail

Please putreference numberNUIG 037-15in subject line of e-mail application.

Closing date for receipt of applications is 5pm onMonday 18thMay 2015.

Interviews are planned to be held during the week beginning 25thMay2015.

National University of Ireland Galway is an equal opportunities employer.