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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to develop innovative software tools for a cutting-edge research project.
- Company: The National Archives is a leading organisation dedicated to preserving and sharing UK heritage.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and the chance to collaborate with top universities and experts.
- Why this job: Be part of a meaningful project that connects communities and enhances digital access to heritage.
- Qualifications: Proficiency in Python/JavaScript, agile methodologies, and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: We welcome diverse applicants and value creativity and problem-solving in our team.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
TNA is looking for two Research Software Engineers (RSEs) to join a 3-year cutting-edge research project, Our Heritage, Our Stories: Linking and searching community-generated digital content to develop the people's national collection, part of the Arts and Humanities Research Council’s programme Towards a National Collection: Opening UK Heritage to the World (TaNC). The project will bring together a powerful partnership, including researchers in digital humanities, archives, history, linguistics, and computer science at our HEI partners, the Universities of Glasgow and Manchester, with world-leading archive and digital infrastructure development at The National Archives (TNA), the project’s lead Independent Research Organisation (IRO).
We are looking for creative and self-motivated Research Software Engineers with interests in areas such as human-computer interaction, artificial intelligence and linked open data. You should be committed to software development best practices, and know how to adapt these for research contexts. You will need to have excellent communication skills and a talent for technical problem solving. You will be working within a multi-disciplinary team that will follow an agile way of working to deliver software tools and end-user services to support the project.
We are an equal opportunities employer welcoming applications from all sections of the community and from people of diverse ages, experience and backgrounds, including people with disabilities. We are keen to explore the widest possible pool of talent for all our roles.
Essential criteria:
- Highly motivated with interests in areas such as human-computer interaction, artificial intelligence and linked open data.
- Experience of using agile methodologies (such as Scrum and Kanban) across the entire development life cycle.
- Excellent written, communication and interpersonal skills, including in academic writing and with the ability to explain complex and/or technical issues and concepts to non-specialists.
- Proficiency in programming in Python and/or JavaScript frameworks.
- Experience of different software testing methodologies.
- Experience of web frameworks such as Django and/or Wagtail development.
- Experience or knowledge of user experience (UX) design.
- Highly motivated with a proven ability to manage competing priorities and deliver to deadlines, working independently or as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
Desirable criteria:
- Experience working with Research Software Engineering team or within a research environment.
- Experience of delivering digital services in accordance with GDS Service Manual and Technology Code of Practice.
- Understanding of the digital landscape, with experience of interdisciplinary working in relevant sectors, for example government, culture and heritage, archives, information science, software engineering, and humanities/digital humanities.
Vacancy for Research Software Engineer at The National Archives employer: Digital Preservation Coalition
Contact Detail:
Digital Preservation Coalition Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vacancy for Research Software Engineer at The National Archives
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, such as Python, JavaScript frameworks, and web frameworks like Django and Wagtail. Having hands-on experience or projects showcasing these skills can set you apart during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 2
Demonstrate your understanding of agile methodologies by discussing any relevant experiences you've had with Scrum or Kanban. Be prepared to share examples of how you've applied these methods in past projects, especially in a research context.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight your communication skills by preparing to explain complex technical concepts in simple terms. This is crucial for working within a multi-disciplinary team and will show that you can bridge the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 4
Research The National Archives and their current projects, particularly 'Our Heritage, Our Stories'. Understanding their mission and how your role as a Research Software Engineer fits into their goals will demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment to the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Vacancy for Research Software Engineer at The National Archives
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in programming, agile methodologies, and any relevant projects. Emphasise your skills in Python and JavaScript frameworks, as well as your understanding of human-computer interaction and UX design.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the project. Discuss how your background aligns with the essential criteria, particularly your experience with software development best practices and your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.
Showcase Relevant Projects: If you have worked on projects related to digital humanities or software engineering, include them in your application. Describe your role, the technologies used, and the impact of your work, especially in a multi-disciplinary team setting.
Prepare for Technical Questions: Anticipate technical questions related to programming, software testing methodologies, and agile practices. Be ready to discuss your problem-solving approach and how you adapt software development practices for research contexts.
How to prepare for a job interview at Digital Preservation Coalition
✨Show Your Passion for Research
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the project and its goals. Talk about your interests in human-computer interaction, artificial intelligence, and linked open data, and how they align with the work at The National Archives.
✨Demonstrate Agile Methodology Experience
Be prepared to discuss your experience with agile methodologies like Scrum and Kanban. Provide specific examples of how you've applied these methods in past projects to manage development cycles effectively.
✨Communicate Complex Ideas Simply
Since the role requires explaining technical concepts to non-specialists, practice articulating complex ideas in a straightforward manner. Use examples from your previous work to illustrate your communication skills.
✨Highlight Your Technical Skills
Ensure you can confidently discuss your proficiency in Python and/or JavaScript frameworks, as well as your experience with web frameworks like Django or Wagtail. Be ready to provide examples of projects where you utilised these skills.
