Gaia/Plato Software Engineer (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge - Institute of Astronomy

Location:CambridgeSalary:£35,116 to £45,413 per annum. Grade 7Hours:Full TimeContract Type:Fixed-Term/ContractPlaced On:30th July 2025Closes:12th September 2025Job Ref:LG46779

Location: Cambridge, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0HA

This is an opportunity for a research software engineer to work at the Cambridge Centre of Excellence for Astronomical Data (CAMCEAD) in the Institute of Astronomy (IoA), specifically on two European Space Agency (ESA) science missions, Gaia and Plato.

The successful candidate will work within CAMCEAD’s Gaia and Plato software development teams. The role will focus on development of the on-ground data processing software for both Gaia and Plato, including automation, large scale distributed processing, data analysis and data management. The work involves systems analysis, design, implementation, testing, documentation and improvement of existing code. The post-holder will have the opportunity to build upon their experience and to take on a wide selection of roles as needed.

The role will also involve: liaising with the wider Plato and Gaia project teams and external science users; The role will include opportunities to interact with the wider CAMCEAD team.

The successful candidate will have a good practical knowledge of software and scientific processing development and at least a BSc (Hons) degree in a numerate discipline (preferably Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a science with a significant computing element).

The candidate should be able to demonstrate knowledge of Java (with familiarity of Python an advantage) and object oriented programming. An understanding of abstraction including familiarity with software design considerations is essential. Experience of Python development would be very useful. Experience with Spark, Kubernetes and knowledge of database systems would be advantageous.

Experience of the acquisition and reduction of data from astronomical facilities and with the use of database and web-based systems would be desirable.

The post-holder will be required to attend meetings both elsewhere in the UK and overseas. Hence possession of a valid passport is necessary.

Further information on the Gaia and Plato missions and the role of staff working at CAMCEAD are available on the full advert, please access this here.

Salary will be Grade 7, £35,116 - £45,413 per annum, depending on experience and Qualifications.

This is a fixed-term role, initially for a fixed term period to 31st March 2028 with good prospects for further extension subject to grant funding and project development.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role and details regarding how to apply and key dates, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above.

The application deadline is 23:59 BST on Friday 12th September 2025.

Please quote reference LG46779 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.