Research Engineer for Visual Programming 50%-100%

ETH Zurich; Zürich; On-site; CHF 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

ETH Zurich is seeking a research engineer to help advance the Belvue language within the AST Lab at the Department of Computer Science. You will implement language features, develop developer tooling, and collaborate closely with the language designer.

The role focuses on implementing or improving features in the visual language editor, maintaining language implementation in C++, and contributing to user interface and language design. Strong C++ skills and a passion for research are essential.

Qualifications

• Strong programming skills, ideally in C++.
• Experience with building user interfaces and reusable software components.
• Experience with large software projects and teamwork.
• Interest in multiple programming paradigms and languages, including functional ones.
• Good software engineering practices and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and spoken English.

Responsibilities

• Implement or improve features in the Belvue visual language editor (bootstrapped in Belvue).
• Add new features or maintain the language implementation in C++.
• Contribute to the user interface and language design.

Skills

C++

User interfaces

Web technologies

English communication

Large software projects

Education

BSc or MSc in Computer Science

Tools

C++

Job description

In the AST Lab, led by Prof. Zhendong Su, at ETH Zurich's Department of Computer Science (D-INFK) we advance and reimagine the science of software construction, working towards systems that help people turn their creative ideas into working software.

• Duration: 3 to 6 months (depending on workload)
• Workload: 50-100%
• Salary: according to ETH guidelines for scientific staff

Project background

Programming remains dominated by textual syntax, imposing cognitive load on novices and widening the gulf between code and behavior. Existing visual systems help with syntax but often mirror abstract syntax trees, offer weak modularity, and rarely scale to real-world software. The Belvue project developed in the AST Lab aims to advance visual programming through a new visual programming paradigm that centers on direct manipulation of program state, live feedback, and example-centric workflows.

Job description

We are looking for a research engineer to help us develop the Belvue language. You will implement language features and developer tooling and work closely with the language designer.

Job Description

• Implement or improve features in the visual language program editor (which is bootstrapped in Belvue)
• Add new features or maintain the language implementation in C++
• Contribute to the user interface and language design

Profile

• Strong programming skills, ideally in C++
• Experience with building user interfaces, designing reusable software components and working with large software projects
• Deep understanding and curiosity about different programming paradigms and languages (ideally familiarity with several programming languages including a functional language)
• Good software engineering practices
• Structured, reliable, and able to work independently within a small team
• BSc or MSc in Computer Science or a related field (or equivalent experience); recent graduates are welcome to apply
• Experience with web technologies is a plus
• Strong communication skills in English

We offer

You will work in a small, innovative research team at ETH Zurich, exploring novel programming paradigms and testing out new ideas. We offer flexible, self-managed working hours and a relaxed, collaborative atmosphere where your ideas directly influence the project's direction. You will also be part of the vibrant research community of the Department of Computer Science.

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

> Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us - we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

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