Senior Research Software Engineer (Neural and Behavioural Data)

Senior Research Software Engineer (Neural and Behavioural Data)

Full-Time 50000 - 65000 € / year (est.) No home office possible
Python Software Foundation

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Develop and optimise software for analysing large neural and behavioural datasets.
  • Company: Join the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre at UCL, a leader in neuroscience research.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a full range of UCL benefits and a supportive work environment.
  • Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from underrepresented backgrounds.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in neuroscience with cutting-edge technology and open-source contributions.
  • Qualifications: Strong Python skills and experience with time-series data required.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 € per year.

A role at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre (SWC) at UCL dedicated to developing reliable software solutions for analysing large volumes of extracellular electrophysiological and behavioural data. This position is based in the Neuroinformatics Unit and will work with laboratories of Tom Mrsic‑Flogel, Tiago Branco and Tim Behrens.

Responsibilities

  • Develop, optimise and use efficient tools to process and visualise large volumes of extracellular electrophysiological data (e.g. Neuropixels probes) and behavioural data (e.g. video recordings).
  • Contribute to open‑source packages such as SpikeInterface and Movement, implement them within SWC pipelines (e.g. using DataJoint) and ensure accurate, efficient handling of large‑scale data recorded by researchers at SWC.

Requirements

  • Strong programming skills in Python and extensive experience with time‑series data.
  • Experience with extracellular electrophysiology and building data pipelines.
  • Interest in building user‑friendly software for neuroscience and good software engineering best practices.
  • Familiarity with open‑source software.

Equal Opportunity

We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We particularly encourage applications from candidates likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce, including people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.

Benefits

Full range of UCL benefits available to staff.

Senior Research Software Engineer (Neural and Behavioural Data) employer: Python Software Foundation

The Sainsbury Wellcome Centre at UCL is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that fosters innovation in neuroscience research. Employees benefit from a comprehensive range of UCL benefits, along with opportunities for professional growth through engagement with cutting-edge projects and open-source software development. Located in a vibrant academic environment, the SWC encourages diversity and actively supports underrepresented groups, making it a rewarding place for those seeking meaningful contributions to science.

Python Software Foundation

Contact Detail:

Python Software Foundation Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Research Software Engineer (Neural and Behavioural Data)

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre. A friendly chat can give us insights into the team culture and maybe even a referral!

Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your projects, especially those involving Python and time-series data. This will help us demonstrate your expertise in handling large datasets.

Tip Number 3

Get involved in open-source! Contributing to projects like SpikeInterface can not only boost your profile but also show us your commitment to the neuroscience community.

Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team.

We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Software Engineer (Neural and Behavioural Data)

Python Programming
Time-Series Data Analysis
Extracellular Electrophysiology
Data Pipeline Development
Software Engineering Best Practices
User-Friendly Software Development
Open-Source Software Familiarity

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your programming skills in Python and experience with time-series data. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects or contributions to open-source packages!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about developing software for neuroscience and how your experience can contribute to our work at SWC. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through!

Showcase Your Projects:If you've worked on any relevant projects, especially those involving extracellular electrophysiology or data pipelines, make sure to mention them. We’re keen to see examples of your work that demonstrate your ability to handle large-scale data effectively.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at StudySmarter!

How to prepare for a job interview at Python Software Foundation

Know Your Tech

Make sure you brush up on your Python skills and any relevant libraries for handling time-series data. Be ready to discuss your experience with tools like SpikeInterface and DataJoint, as they’ll want to see how you can contribute to their projects.

Showcase Your Projects

Prepare to talk about specific projects where you've developed software solutions for analysing large datasets. Highlight your role in optimising these tools and any challenges you overcame, especially in the context of electrophysiological or behavioural data.

Understand Their Work

Familiarise yourself with the research being done at the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre. Knowing the labs of Tom Mrsic‑Flogel, Tiago Branco, and Tim Behrens will help you tailor your answers and show genuine interest in their work.

Emphasise Collaboration

Since this role involves working closely with researchers, be prepared to discuss your experience in collaborative environments. Share examples of how you’ve worked with others to build user-friendly software and ensure best practices in software engineering.