Project description and role: The project is structured around five core pillars - Performance, Information, Planet, People, and Prosperity - delivered through dedicated work packages. It develops advanced ecodesign frameworks to support reuse, repair, remanufacturing, and recycling, enabled by Industry 5.0 technologies and human–robot collaboration. Key innovations include Digital Product Passports (DPPs) and data-driven tools to improve lifecycle transparency, alongside methods for assessing environmental, social, and economic impacts.

Candidate Profile: We are seeking two highly motivated candidates with strong technical ability and an interest in ecodesign, circular electronics and sustainable manufacturing. Applicants should be keen to combine practical engineering with independent research and collaborate with international academic and industrial partners. 

Essential Requirements 

• Degree at National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) Level 8 with first class honours (or equivalent), or a master’s degree in electronic engineering, Mechanical, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, Computer Science, or a closely related discipline.
• Strong interest in sustainable engineering and the circular economy, particularly in eco-design, remanufacturing, or electronics lifecycle management
• Ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary and international research team, engaging with both academic and industrial partners
• Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of independent research, with excellent organisational, communication, and presentation skills
• Willingness to undertake international secondments with industrial partners 
• Excellent command of written and spoken English, demonstrated ability in technical writing, including preparation of reports, theses, or scientific publications
• Knowledge and/or experience in two or more of the following areas:
  • Automation and robotics 
  • Electronics or PCB design, testing, or manufacturing processes
  • Programming/software development skills
  • Digital manufacturing, Industry 4.0, or cyber-physical systems
  • Product design for disassembly, remanufacturing, or recycling
  • Data analysis, AI, or machine learning applied to engineering systems

Desirable Competences: 

• Track record of publications (preferably indexed in Web of Science) and/or conference presentations, demonstrating research excellence
• Experience in electronics/PCB design, testing, or manufacturing processes
• Experience with programming and/or AI/ML tools (e.g. Python, MATLAB, scikit-learn, TensorFlow)
• Knowledge of eco-design, circular economy, or design for manufacturing and recycling principles

• Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) funded fellowship.
• Tuition fees fully covered.
• Funding for equipment, conference travel, and publications.
• Duration: 36 months, full time 
• Expected start date for the positions: January 2027
• Remuneration package including a mobility allowance, with a family allowance where applicable, in accordance with MSCA rules.

Applicants must satisfy the following requirements:

• Academic qualifications: Meet the academic requirements outlined under Essential Requirements and qualify for admission to a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme at the University of Limerick.
• Mobility requirement: Under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) mobility rule, applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity, including work or study, in Ireland for more than 12 months during the 36 months immediately preceding their recruitment date. Any applicable exemptions will be assessed under the relevant MSCA rules.
• Nationality: Applications are welcome from candidates of any nationality.
• English proficiency: Meet the University of Limerick’s English language requirements for postgraduate research.
• Programme participation: Successful candidates must enrol in the doctoral programme and participate in the required research and training activities.

Eligibility will be verified before an appointment is confirmed.

Applications will be assessed against the essential and desirable criteria. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview to discuss their academic background, relevant project or research experience, and suitability for the position. Reference checks will be conducted for the preferred candidate before a final offer is made.

Application End Date: Applications accepted via email until 17:00 GMT on October 30th 2026. Interviews will be carried out as soon as suitable candidates are identified.