Posted by s.crouch on 19 November 2012 - 3:18pm

By Steve Crouch.

Working at the Institute, I've been given many rewarding opportunities to expand my software development knowledge and have an impact on the way researchers develop their software. I've also been impressed with the recognition and appreciation that my skills bring to the Institute. Would you like the same opportunity?

The Institute is looking to recruit a Software Consultant in Southampton. Although the role is described in the job advert, it doesn't really convey much about the background of the position and the working environment here.

The Institute has conducted software consultancy since it's inception in 2010, and more recently has begun to expand its software development training activities. The recruit will be working closely with many cutting edge research groups as part of the Software Consultancy Team - led by myself.

So what's it all about?

Software is becoming a fundamental tool of science. Our new recruit will help to improve the software development practices and knowledge of research teams from around the UK - an aspect of the job that I've always found very rewarding. The recruit will work with researchers to assess their software and provide recommendations for how it could be improved. A solid background in development practices will be required to help researchers to become better software developers, and to help them improve their research. The recruit will come into contact with a wide range of technologies and approaches, which will allow them to expand their own technical skills base.

Software developers find it difficult to have their contribution recognised in academia. The Institute is working to challenge this oversight. Our new recruit will discover many opportunities to make a valuable contribution to the Institute's work, and will help us fight for recognition of research software engineers and academic software development in general.

The recruit will have many opportunities to put their ideas into practice - something that we actively encourage. In addition to development, the recruit will communicate their experiences, thoughts, opinions and guidance using a number of different media: from delivering training to writing blogs and guides.

So what makes a good candidate?

This role requires a variety of skills. We need someone with broad and significant experience in software development, in particular with open-source software and tools. A talent for technical problem solving is a must. The recruit will also be an effective presenter and author, with the skill and desire to communicate complex ideas to others and should relish the opportunity to meet new people and discuss ideas.

Working with a broad range of researchers across a number of disciplines, the recruit will already have experience in scientific research, allowing them to relate to common research problems and identify potential collaborative opportunities.

Do you want to know more?

If you are interested in joining our team, then check out the job advert which provides more information and contact details.