Research Software Engineer/Senior Research Software Engineer (Fixed Term)
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 1 year.
We are seeking to appoint a full or part-time Research Software Engineer or Senior Research Software Engineer to join the Automated Language Teaching & Assessment Institute (ALTA) in the Department of Computer Science & Technology at the University of Cambridge. The ALTA Institute carries out research on education technology for the teaching and assessment of learners of English and is supported by Cambridge University Press & Assessment.
The role will involve aspects of the following:
- implementation of experimental models for research, proof-of-concept educational applications, and web applications for data collection
- development and maintenance of software resources for use by the research team
- coordination with our funding partners for knowledge and technology transfer
- documentation, system evaluation, and issue tracking
- collaboration with researchers to refine their codebases
- regular discussion with group leaders to discuss tasks and workload
The successful applicant will work with Professor Paula Buttery, as well as a dedicated team in the Department of Computer Science and Technology in Cambridge.
Requirements
Candidates will be considered at the Research Software Engineer and Senior Research Software Engineer levels, depending on experience. Advanced knowledge of Python and natural language processing or machine learning libraries is essential. The role involves the processing of text and previous experience in this respect is desired. The ability to adapt and select appropriate software, languages and tools is also important in this role. Previous work experience in industry or in an academic environment will be an advantage, especially in settings involving coordination with external project sponsors. Candidates must be able to work independently, to work effectively with colleagues and to collaborate with external partners as appropriate. We welcome applicants with a passion for EdTech, blended learning and/or computing education.
Benefits
In addition to a stimulating environment at a prestigious institution, we offer a range of benefits to all our colleagues, including:
- 41 days holiday inclusive of public holidays
- Membership of the generous USS career-average pension scheme
- Opportunity to pursue research interests in the area
- Flexible work hours as needed, to fit around childcare or other commitments
- A rich and vibrant University community with many intra- and inter-Department activities throughout the year
We are flexible in our approach to in-person working with some colleagues regularly using our offices in Cambridge while others often work remotely. We use a combination of Google Meet, Trello, and Slack to facilitate blended working.
Informal enquiries can be made by contacting alta-directors@cst.cam.ac.uk
Please provide a CV and a covering letter detailing your previous project experience with reference to the above criteria. Candidates must provide the names and contact details of two referees who are familiar with their work.
Please quote reference NR50143 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
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