**About The Company**
The Rosalind Franklin Institute is a leading interdisciplinary research organization dedicated to advancing scientific discovery through innovative research and cutting-edge technology. Located in the heart of Oxford, the institute collaborates with academia, industry, and government agencies to address some of the most pressing scientific challenges of our time. With a focus on life sciences, data science, and advanced computing, the institute aims to accelerate breakthroughs in health, sustainability, and technology. Our vibrant community fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence, providing an ideal environment for researchers and engineers to thrive and make impactful contributions to science and society.
**About The Role**
As a Research Software Engineer (RSE) at The Rosalind Franklin Institute, you will play a pivotal role in bridging scientific research and software development. Your expertise will be instrumental in creating and deploying scientific software solutions, applying artificial intelligence (AI), and leveraging data science techniques to solve complex scientific problems. You will work closely with multidisciplinary research teams to develop infrastructure that supports high-performance computing (HPC), cloud computing, and data management, thereby accelerating scientific workflows and discoveries.
This position offers a unique opportunity to work within a dynamic, agile environment where technological innovation meets scientific exploration. You will contribute to the institute’s mission by developing software tools, infrastructure, and best practices that enhance research capabilities across various scientific disciplines. Your work will not only advance scientific understanding but also help establish your reputation within the research software engineering community and beyond. The role provides a platform for professional growth, leadership development, and meaningful contributions to groundbreaking research initiatives.
**Qualifications**
The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in software engineering, data science, or a related field, with a demonstrated interest in scientific research. A bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, data science, or a relevant discipline is required; a master's or Ph.D. is highly desirable. Proven experience in developing scientific or research software, particularly in environments involving HPC, cloud computing, or data management, is essential.
Candidates should have proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, or Java, and familiarity with software development best practices including version control, continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD), and testing frameworks. Experience with AI and machine learning frameworks, data visualization tools, and scientific data standards will be advantageous. Strong communication skills, the ability to translate scientific requirements into technical solutions, and a collaborative mindset are essential for success in this role.
**Responsibilities**
- Develop and deploy bespoke scientific software solutions, collaborating with scientists across the institute to ensure alignment with research objectives. This includes creating web applications, APIs, machine learning models, and image processing pipelines.
- Implement good software development practices such as CI/CD pipelines, writing comprehensive tests, maintaining detailed documentation, and creating installers to facilitate software deployment and usability.
- Engage in requirements gathering by translating scientific discussions into detailed software development plans and technical specifications.
- Create and maintain up-to-date best practice documentation to ensure consistency and knowledge sharing within the team.
- Provide user support through training sessions, technical documentation, and ongoing service management to facilitate effective use of software tools and infrastructure.
- Learn and assist in maintaining the institute’s cloud, HPC, and data infrastructure, ensuring high availability and performance.
- Plan and execute experiments, analyze results, and interpret data to inform research outputs, including reports, patents, and publications.
- Work within project teams to contribute to larger research initiatives aligned with Franklin’s key scientific challenges.
- Lead significant contributions to research outputs, including preparing academic papers, patents, and delivering presentations at conferences.
- Support and mentor colleagues, including supervising students and visiting researchers, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment.
- Progress towards scientific independence by developing new skills, leading projects, and establishing a professional research profile.
- Engage in active collaboration with external researchers and industry partners, exchanging ideas and fostering innovation.
- Develop skills in research discovery and technical communication, ensuring clarity and effectiveness in scientific contexts.
- Work under the supervision of senior RSEs to deliver research outputs, participate in project challenges, and contribute to the institute’s strategic goals.
**Benefits**
- 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays and a Christmas holiday shutdown period.
- A generous pension scheme with employer contributions currently up to 18%.
- Group Life Assurance (also known as Group Life Insurance or Death in Service cover).
- Options for buying and selling annual leave, along with a workplace nursery and salary sacrifice schemes.
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratories within a modern campus environment.
- Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid work models.
- Opportunities for professional development and training at all levels.
- Discount schemes such as bus pass discounts and Cycle to Work schemes.
- Access to employee discount platforms like Perkbox.
- Comprehensive health and wellbeing support, including Employee Assistance programs offering 24/7 counseling services.
- Health Cash Plan to assist with healthcare costs.
- Subsidized on-campus canteen and food outlets for staff convenience.
- Free on-site parking facilities.
- A beautiful campus located in the countryside, with social and sports clubs available for staff engagement.
Equal Opportunity
The Rosalind Franklin Institute is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all
Want jobs like this matched to you?
Swoopd scores fresh postings against your résumé so you only see the matches that matter.