Location: Harwell, Oxfordshire – with primarily onsite work and some remote working options available.
Hours: Full-time with flexible hours considered.
About Us:
Diamond Light Source is a beacon of scientific advancement, housing the UK’s synchrotron light source—a colossal microscope generating light beams 10 billion times brighter than the sun. Our cutting-edge research spans from vaccine development to nanotechnology. Currently, we are embarking on a significant upgrade initiative, Diamond-II, which will integrate a new machine and beamlines alongside enhancements in optics, detectors, and computing, to deliver a more brilliant and higher energy light source.
Software plays a crucial role in enabling the groundbreaking science at Diamond. We cover the gamut from low-level hardware control to high-level data processing and visualization. Our software experts work in tandem with scientists to maintain Diamond’s status as a leader in scientific research.
About the Role:
We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to develop and maintain advanced scientific software as part of an international research collaboration. Effective information management is vital for our mission, and our Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is central to managing the full lifecycle of experiments. Our current web application requires enhancement to accommodate new operational requirements and automated data collection, aided by modern JavaScript libraries and frameworks. We’re also crafting a new universal solution using a service-oriented architecture to support the entire facility and Diamond-II initiatives. This position offers ample opportunities for skill development and professional growth in a prestigious scientific setting.
You will work in a dynamic, collaborative team, interacting with Diamond scientists to translate scientific needs into software solutions. International collaboration is also a key aspect, contributing to software that supports global facilities within the partnership.
About You:
Ideal candidates should demonstrate experience across the Software Development Lifecycle with:
- A degree in science, engineering, mathematics, computer science, or equivalent experience.
- Experience in technical software development environments.
- Advanced skills in JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.
- Familiarity with unit test frameworks like Jest or Vitest.
- Knowledge of agile methodologies, particularly SCRUM.
- Experience in leading small teams and conducting mentoring/code reviews.
- Proficiency in developing single-page applications using JavaScript frameworks such as React or Angular.
- Comprehensive understanding of technical software engineering, computing architecture, and algorithms.
- Experience with open-source software development.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to translate scientific requirements into software solutions.
- Interest in supporting scientific stakeholders paired with strong analytical skills.
Familiarity with open-source platforms like GitHub or GitLab is beneficial. A passion for UX and quality in our remote systems is essential.
Benefits:
Diamond provides an outstanding benefits package promoting a healthy work-life balance, including 26 days of annual leave plus Christmas closure, public holidays, two annual volunteering days, and flexible working hours. We offer a robust defined benefit pension scheme and access to on-site amenities such as a nursery, cafes, a restaurant, and sports facilities. A relocation allowance might be available if applicable.
To Apply:
Please apply via the online application process on Diamond Light’s website by clicking the ‘Apply’ button. Share why you are the ideal candidate for this role. Applications close on 8th December 2024, but early submissions are encouraged as interviews may begin ahead of that date