Host Institution: IMaR Research Centre; Munster Technological University (MTU) – Kerry Campus
Programme Title: IMaR Research Centre – Post-Graduate Scholarship Programme
Overview:
The IMaR Research Centre at Munster Technological University invites applications for a number of fully funded postgraduate Masters and PhD scholarships aligned with strategic research priorities in advanced engineering, digital innovation, skills provision and societal impact. IMaR is a dynamic, industry-engaged research centre comprising 50+ researchers and staff, delivering over 441 industry projects with more than €20million in total collaborative research funding awarded in recent years. The centre has secured over €7.1million in industry collaborative research projects and produced 85+ peer-reviewed research publications. Working at the intersection of research excellence and enterprise collaboration, IMaR provides postgraduate researchers with a highly applied and impactful research environment.
The scholarships available provide opportunities for motivated graduates to undertake applied research within a collaborative environment that connects academia, industry, education, policy makers, regionally and nationally. Research activity at IMaR is strongly industry-connected, with collaborations spanning advanced manufacturing, AgriTech, MedTech, automotive, general manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, electronics and automation. Industry partners include organizations such as Tricel, Liebherr, Dairymaster, Stryker, Johnson and Johnson, Alps, EPS,
Kostal, Samco, RTR Electronics, Celeros, FlowTech Engineering, and Abbey Machinery, alongside a wider network of enterprise collaborators and innovation partners.
Successful applicants will join interdisciplinary teams working across engineering, manufacturing, AgriTech, intelligent systems, industrial automation, and public engagement, helping to shape how emerging technologies are designed, developed, adopted, and understood.
IMaR Thematic Research areas included in this programme:
Post-graduate researchers will contribute to one of several thematic research areas within the IMaR Research Centre:
1. Engineering and Public Engagement (EPE) – Exploring how the public engages with STEM and engineering research, examining communication strategies, participation models, and the societal understanding of innovation.
2. Intelligent Skills Mapping and Trustworthy AI Systems – developing rule-based and AI-enabled approaches to skills recognition, progression pathways, and value creation for individuals, enterprises, training providers, regions and policy makers.
3. Automation and Integration of Industrial Machines – supporting the research, design and deployment of advanced automation solutions linked to new equipment investments, enhancing productivity, integration, and smart manufacturing capability.
4. Vision Systems for Agriculture – applying sensing, imaging, and intelligent analysis technologies to support innovation in agricultural processes, sustainability, and data-driven decision-making.
5. Engineering Education – exploring the potential of immersive technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) to transform engineering education by creating interactive, experiential learning environments that replicate real-world engineering scenarios. Immersive platforms can enable students to visualise complex systems, conduct simulated experiments, and engage in practical problem-solving without the constraints of physical laboratories. The project will also examine how Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can complement these technologies by providing adaptive learning pathways, intelligent tutoring, automated feedback, and data-driven insights into student performance. By integrating immersive environments with AI-supported analytics and personalised learning systems, engineering programmes may enhance student engagement, improve conceptual understanding, and increase access to high-quality laboratory experiences. The study will evaluate the pedagogical benefits, implementation challenges, and cost-effectiveness of such integrated digital learning ecosystems for the future of engineering education.
Whilst projects will differ in technical focus, all scholarships share a common aim: to advance impactful research that supports industry transformation, regional skills development, and broader societal benefit, including alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Researchers will undertake structured postgraduate study embedded within IMaR’s applied research environment, gaining experience in interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation translation, and industry engagement.
Candidate Profile:
We are seeking motivated postgraduate candidates with strong analytical abilities, and an interest in applied research, innovation, and societal impact in the thematic areas outlined above.
Essential Requirements
Applicants must hold:
· A Level 8 Honours Degree (minimum H2.1) in Engineering, Computing, Science, Agriculture Technology, Business, Communications, Innovation Management, or a related discipline
· Interest in STEM fields
· Strong research, analytical and problem-solving capabilities
· Interest in applied research and interdisciplinary collaboration
· Excellent written and verbal communication skills
· Ability to communicate technical concepts to non-specialist audiences
· Interest in public engagement, education, or research impact
Desirable Experience:
· Relevant final year research/dissertation project
· Industry placement or applied project experience
· Knowledge of manufacturing, automation, agriculture technology, AI systems, or STEM engagement
· Experience working across technical and non-technical environments
Programme Structure and Duration:
· Full-time Masters and/or PhD programme
· Duration: 48 months
· Hours per week: 36
Commencement:
September 2026
Funding and Benefits:
· €25,000 per annum stipend (tax-free)
· Full tuition fees covered (EU and non-EU)
· Access to advanced manufacturing and engineering research facilities
· Academic supervision and mentoring
· Opportunities for collaboration with industry and education partners
· Conference and publication opportunities
· Progression pathway opportunities
Work Location
· Primary Location: Munster Technological University – Kerry Campus Tralee, Co. Kerry, Ireland
· The role may also involve engagement and research activity across:
o Industry partner locations
o Schools and education settings
o Community venues
o Public engagement and exhibition events
Application end date:
CV and cover letter accepted via email to Joseph.Walsh@mtu.ie until 5pm on 10/04/2026. Interviews will be carried out as soon as suitable applicants are identified. For informal enquiries relating to this opportunity please contact Joseph.Walsh@mtu.ie
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