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- Tasks: Develop and enhance systems for scientific data and publishing workflows.
- Company: Join the International Union of Crystallography, a leader in scientific publishing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic office in Chester with great career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on scientific integrity and quality through innovative systems.
- Qualifications: Experience with web systems, structured data, and programming skills required.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 50000 £ per year.
The International Union of Crystallography (IUCr) is looking for a Systems Developer to support and enhance the platforms that underpin its journals and data validation services. This role sits at the intersection of scientific data, publishing workflows, and software systems. You will contribute to the development and operation of key services including checkCIF, as well as the submission and peer-review infrastructure used by a global research community. You will work closely with colleagues across editorial, technical and operational teams to troubleshoot issues, improve workflows, and ensure the reliable handling of structured scientific data such as CIF. The role also involves coordinating with external tools and services that form part of the wider validation and publishing ecosystem. This is a practical, hands‑on position suited to someone who enjoys solving real‑world problems, improving systems incrementally, and working with a mix of code, data, and users.
What you’ll be doing:
- Maintaining and developing the checkCIF validation service
- Supporting and improving submission and peer-review systems
- Troubleshooting workflow and file‑handling issues
- Working with structured scientific data (CIF etc.)
- Collaborating with internal teams and external partners
- Contributing to system improvements, automation, and reliability
What we’re looking for:
- Experience with web‑based systems or workflow platforms
- Familiarity with structured data and validation processes
- Ability to diagnose and resolve technical issues across systems
- Programming or scripting experience (e.g. Python, Perl, shell)
- Clear communication skills and a collaborative approach
This role offers the opportunity to work on systems that directly support the integrity and quality of scientific publishing, within a small, experienced, and supportive team. The position is based in central Chester, with an expectation of regular presence in the office. The full job description may be found on the IUCr website under "Latest Jobs". Salary £42,000–£50,000 depending on experience, plus an excellent benefits package.
To apply: Please send your CV and covering letter to ceo@iucr.org. Interviews planned for week beginning 18 May 2026.
Systems Developer (Submission Systems and CIF Validation) - The International Union of Crystall[...] in Chester employer: Instruct-ERIC
Contact Detail:
Instruct-ERIC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Systems Developer (Submission Systems and CIF Validation) - The International Union of Crystall[...] in Chester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field of structural biology and software development. Attend meetups, webinars, or even just connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your projects, especially those involving web-based systems or structured data. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can do and how you solve real-world problems.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common technical questions related to programming and workflow platforms. Practice explaining your thought process when troubleshooting issues, as this is key for roles like the Systems Developer position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at the IUCr and contributing to the scientific publishing community.
We think you need these skills to ace Systems Developer (Submission Systems and CIF Validation) - The International Union of Crystall[...] in Chester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the Systems Developer role. We want to see how your background aligns with the job description, so don’t be shy about showcasing your web-based systems experience and programming skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the role and how you can contribute to our mission at IUCr. We love seeing candidates who can communicate clearly and show a collaborative spirit.
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: Since this role involves troubleshooting and improving workflows, make sure to include examples of how you've tackled real-world problems in the past. We’re looking for practical, hands-on experience that demonstrates your ability to diagnose and resolve technical issues.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Instruct-ERIC
✨Know Your Systems
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of web-based systems and workflow platforms. Familiarise yourself with the checkCIF validation service and how it integrates with submission and peer-review systems. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've diagnosed and resolved technical issues in the past. Think about specific instances where you improved workflows or handled structured scientific data. This will demonstrate your hands-on approach and ability to tackle real-world problems, which is key for this position.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since collaboration is crucial in this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be ready to explain complex technical concepts in simple terms, as you'll be working with various teams. Good communication can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Get Familiar with Programming Languages
If you have experience with Python, Perl, or shell scripting, be prepared to discuss it. Bring examples of projects where you've used these languages to improve systems or automate processes. This will highlight your technical skills and readiness to contribute to system improvements.