Postdoctoral Researcher - Artificial Intelligence & Digital Transformation

Description of Post

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher - Artificial Intelligence & Digital Transformation to join Atlantic Technological University (ATU) in delivering the PEACEPLUS-funded E-DATA (Enterprise Digitalisation and Transformation Alliance) project. E-DATA is a major cross-border initiative designed to enhance digital capability, productivity, and competitiveness among SMEs across Northern Ireland and Ireland.

Please note: The postholder will be based at the ATU Donegal, Letterkenny Campus.

Essential Qualifications

Minimum

• PhD in Information Systems, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Data Science, Software Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Experience in development of Structured Evaluation Frameworks, Digital Maturity Evaluation Frameworks or Data-driven assessment tools for organisations using AI/ML system development, including agentic AI workflows, large language models.
• Knowledge of SME digital transformation challenges, including digital strategy, data management, automation, Industry 4.0 tools, and sustainability focused digital practices.
• Familiarity with agentic AI frameworks (e.g., LangChain, AutoGen, CrewAI) or AI-enabled decision-support systems.
• Strong software development skills, including experience with APIs, backend services, databases (SQL/NoSQL), and designing or prototyping digital tools or decision-support systems.
• Demonstrated ability to analyse and interpret data to support capability assessments, digital transformation roadmaps, and operational or supply chain optimisation insights.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex AI concepts for non-technical audiences, including SMEs and industry stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary, cross-border research environment, coordinating with multiple project partners.
• Willingness to engage with SMEs, industry partners, policy stakeholders, and cross-border collaborators, contributing to workshops, mentoring sessions, and dissemination activities as required
• Proven record of research activity, including peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, technical reports, or project deliverables, with clear capacity to produce future scholarly output.

Desirable

• Understanding of supply chain lean management, process mapping, or digital lean transformation principles relevant to SMEs.
• Prior involvement in industry-engaged projects, SME mentoring/support programmes, or capacity-building initiatives.
• Experience designing and delivering training workshops or upskilling programmes on digital tools, analytics, business systems, or supply chain process optimisation.
• Knowledge of data governance, GDPR, cybersecurity, and responsible use of AI in organisational contexts.
• Familiarity with EU-funded or cross-border research environments, and ability to collaborate with multi-partner teams across Ireland and Northern Ireland.
• Experience with interactive dashboards, reporting tools, or data visualisation platforms to support SME decision-making.

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