Senior Researcher in Computational Materials Development

Who we are?

Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) is a leading Research and Technology Organisation providing a portfolio of operations research, training, and consultancy services to Industry across the following four thematic pillars: Digitisation, Sustainable Manufacturing, Design for Manufacturing, and Robotics and Automation. As a leading manufacturing Research & Technology Organisation (RTO) with labs and industrial pilot lines in Dublin and Mullingar, IMR works with leading global and indigenous brands to demystify, and derisk new and emerging technologies and to deliver high-impact collaborative research and services to enable advanced manufacturing for a broad range of clients across Ireland’s manufacturing network.

What IMR offers:

• An opportunity to contribute to the national economic growth agenda
• A competitive salary and pension
• A friendly and flexible working environment with State-of-the-art Innovation Centres
• Lots of diversity in terms of people, technology, projects and ideas
• The opportunity to join a dynamic and committed team
• Interaction with a diverse range of industrial clients and state partners
• 5 weeks holidays

The Role:

IMR is now seeking a Senior Computational Materials Development Researcher to support a key collaborative project involving the advancement of quantum computing to address critical industrial challenges within Ireland. The successful candidate will use expertise in atomistic and mesoscale simulation methods to construct high‑fidelity benchmark cases that capture the behaviour of advanced alloy systems under realistic conditions. They will work with quantum‑computing experts to distil these simulations into their underlying mathematical structures, identify computational bottlenecks, and explore quantum‑amenable formulations.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in cross‑disciplinary research and wants to help define how quantum computing could transform materials science. While the main focus will be on the development of simulations of metal alloys for a range of specific applications, the role will also involve supporting the wider Additive Manufacturing team in addressing material challenges across a range of industrial sectors including aerospace, medical device, injection moulding, automotive, chemical and pharma.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct research on alloy composition, microstructure, and properties to develop new materials or improve existing ones.
• Design and execute experiments for alloy development, including melting, casting, powder processing, and additive manufacturing.
• Perform material characterization using techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, EDS, and mechanical testing.
• Utilize computational tools (e.g. Thermocalc, Abaqus) to predict alloy behaviour and guide experimental work.
• Document research findings, prepare technical reports, and present results to stakeholders.
• Stay updated on emerging trends in metallurgy, additive manufacturing, and sustainable materials.
• Develop and validate benchmark simulations of complex metallic alloys using methods such as DFT, MD, phase‑field modelling, or other relevant approaches
• Analyse the mathematical and computational structure of classical materials‑simulation algorithms to identify core equations, scaling limits, and high‑cost operations.
• Collaborate with quantum‑computing specialists to map materials‑modelling problems onto quantum‑suitable mathematical frameworks.
• Evaluate existing quantum algorithms (e.g. VQE, quantum linear solvers, Hamiltonian simulation) for applicability to materials‑science problems.
• Contribute to the development of new quantum‑inspired or hybrid algorithms where classical–quantum comparisons require novel approaches.
• Design and execute comparative studies assessing accuracy, performance, and scalability between classical and quantum methods.

Required Skills and Experience:

• MSc or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field.
• Strong knowledge of metal alloy systems (ferrous and non-ferrous), phase diagrams, and microstructure-property relationships.
• Hands-on experience with alloy development and characterization techniques.
• Familiarity with shape memory alloys, high-entropy alloy and lightweight materials development using computational methods.
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation of experimental results.
• Experience with relevant computational materials science tools (Thermocalc, Abaqus).
• Understanding of industry standards (ISO, ASTM) and quality assurance practices.
• Experience in the characterisation of metallurgical samples, including mechanical testing, micrography, etching, grinding and polishing.
• Familiarity with statistical analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, JMP) and data analysis techniques for process optimization.
• Familiarity with Metal Additive Manufacturing is desirable but not necessary.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently or collaboratively in a research environment.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to convey technical information effectively to cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

Location:

IMR offices are located in Rathcoole, Co Dublin and Mullingar, Co Westmeath. This position is based in our Mullingar office. We offer a hybrid working model. Travel between offices and client sites will be required from time to time.

Salary & Benefits:  

This position will command a package consisting of basic salary (€50,168 - €54,307 depending on qualifications and experience), employer pension contribution and 5 weeks holidays.

Closing Date:

All applicants must include an up-to-date version of your CV with their application. Electronic applicants only via LinkedIn or to careers@imr.ie

Closing date for receipt of all applications is 12 noon Monday, 9^th February 2026. Interviews are expected to take place week commencing 16^th February 2026.

IMR is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We actively promote equity and equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities. We do not discriminate based on age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. We strive to ensure our recruitment processes are fair, accessible, and free from bias.