At a Glance
- 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 package, and 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 while solving practical problems.
- 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 and LaTeX. 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, LaTeX, 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.
Systems Developer (Submission Systems and CIF Validation) employer: Society of Research Software Engineering
The International Union of Crystallography (IUCr) is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and supportive work culture in the heart of Chester. With a focus on employee growth and development, IUCr provides opportunities to engage with cutting-edge scientific data and publishing systems, all while enjoying a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package. Join a dedicated team where your contributions directly enhance the integrity of scientific research and publishing.
Contact Detail:
Society of Research Software Engineering Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Systems Developer (Submission Systems and CIF Validation)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend meetups, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio or GitHub repository showcasing your projects, especially those related to web-based systems or structured data. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can do and sets you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common technical questions and scenarios related to systems development. Practice explaining your thought process clearly, as communication is key when collaborating with teams.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at StudySmarter.
We think you need these skills to ace Systems Developer (Submission Systems and CIF Validation)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience with web-based systems and structured data. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects or technologies you've worked with!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about the Systems Developer role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for the work we do at StudySmarter.
Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled technical issues in the past. We’re all about solving real-world problems, so let us know how you’ve made a difference in previous roles!
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 keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Society of Research Software Engineering
✨Know Your Tech
Make sure you brush up on your programming and scripting skills, especially in Python or Perl. Be ready to discuss how you've used these languages in past projects, particularly in relation to web-based systems or workflow platforms.
✨Understand the Science
Familiarise yourself with structured scientific data formats like CIF and LaTeX. Being able to talk about how you've worked with these types of data will show that you understand the core of what the role entails.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've diagnosed and resolved technical issues in previous roles. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you approached them, as this will demonstrate your hands-on experience and practical mindset.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since collaboration is key in this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be ready to discuss how you've worked with different teams in the past and how you ensure effective communication, especially when troubleshooting or improving workflows.
