(Community Development) Research Officer Regenerative X5 - Just Transition Academy

Introduction

Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) is home to over 15,000 students and a staff complement of approximately 2,000, full-time and part-time, across seven campuses in Athlone, Limerick, Thurles, Clonmel and Ennis.

Established on October 1, 2021, TUS has a strong regional focus and is a key driver of development and investment across the Midlands and Midwest. The new networked university, linked by the River Shannon, borders on almost half of Ireland's 26 counties and will provide unprecedented levels of access to higher education.

We are committed to developing a contemporary and vibrant technological university - a higher education TU that reflects the educational and economic needs of our region and the communities we serve. The new technological university will connect knowledge creation with industry partnerships to grow and support collaboration. The technological university will be the home of academic leaders, knowledge creators and cutting-edge researchers who will positively affect people's lives now and in the future.

The primary objective of the Just Transition Academy in Co. Offaly is to address economic challenges resulting from the phased closure of Bord Na Mona. The initiative is part of a regional development project led by Offaly County Council, Offaly Local Development Company, Laois Offaly Education and Training Board, and the Technological University of the Shannon. The collaboration aims to re-imagine the natural and social capital of the county/region, emphasising these as primary factors for securing wellbeing and generating self-sustaining energy for local development. Educational and training interventions will be developed, featuring a practice-based curriculum aligned with regional developmental challenges. The project will integrate both fundamental and applied social research and innovation to empower communities in transition. The overarching framework for this initiative is the Just Transition Academy, focusing on education, training, research, and innovation across pillars such as Regenerative Education, Regenerative Agriculture, Regenerative Communities, and Regenerative Economy. The Academy aims to engage in research initiatives fostering regional regeneration.

The Role

This role is key to the success of the TUS Just Transition Academy located in County Offaly. The TUS Just Transition Academy (TUS-JTA) is committed to leading Offaly on a transformative path toward sustainability and economic resilience. Recognising the challenges posed by the shift from peat-based industries, the Academy unites community-focused education, regenerative practices, and innovative economic approaches to empower local communities for a climate-neutral future. With an emphasis on inclusivity and practical, hands-on learning, TUS-JTA aims to cultivate a skilled workforce equipped for opportunities in sustainable agriculture, the circular economy, and community-driven tourism. Supported by the Research Centre of Excellence, which delivers impactful research and data-driven insights, the Academy seeks to guide policy and practice and monitor the region’s progress in achieving a Just Transition that aligns with broader climate and social objectives.

As a Research and Development Officer at the TUS Just Transition Academy in Co. Offaly, the successful candidate will play a crucial role in advancing the Academy's overarching objectives related to Regenerative Agriculture, Regenerative Education, Regenerative Agriculture, Regenerative Communities and Regenerative Economy

This dynamic role may include a variety of responsibilities associated with the research process and active engagement with stakeholders, including local communities, small farm holders, educational institutions, and governmental bodies. The successful candidate will on engagement with key stakeholders to inform and support the Academy's initiatives, building a strong research infrastructure for the JTA, to support future replication of JTA activities. By staying abreast of industry trends and identifying best practices, the successful candidate will contribute valuable insights that guide the planning, development, and successful implementation of projects. Specifically, the successful candidate’s efforts will contribute to the Academy's commitment to fostering environmentally sustainable practices, supporting regenerative agriculture, and promoting initiatives that enhance the well-being and resilience of local communities in Co. Offaly. The role requires adaptability, effective coordination with team members, and the ability to translate research findings into practical strategies that align with the Academy's mission.

Please see Job Description attached below.

Closing Date: January 24th, 2025

Please click here to apply