Research Software Engineer (Research Associate)

University of Leicester School of Business; Leicester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Leicester's School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences seeks a Research Software Engineer to develop advanced frameworks in a UKRI-funded project. Candidates should possess a PhD and expertise in Python, alongside skills in machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch, to contribute to significant research addressing climate challenges.

Benefits

Competitive salary package

Excellent pension scheme

Generous annual leave allowance

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Enthusiastic, self-motivated, and collaborative.
• Experience with spatial-temporal data is a plus.
• Ability to contribute to software development and academic research.

Responsibilities

• Develop computational frameworks to enhance digital twin systems.
• Collaborate across disciplines with researchers.
• Address climate and sustainability challenges through technology.

Skills

Scientific Python programming

Machine learning frameworks

Version control systems

Environmental simulations

Analytical skills

Education

PhD or equivalent experience

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

High Performance Computing environments

Job description

About The Role

We are looking for a skilled Research Software Engineer to join our team at the School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences. This role is part of a UKRI-funded project, “Accelerating digital twin technology to deliver a prosperous net zero”. You will play a key role in enhancing and professionalising a digital twin system that brings together environmental simulations, Earth observation data, and machine learning techniques to address climate and sustainability challenges.

You will contribute to the development of computational frameworks, collaborate across disciplines, and work closely with leading researchers at the cutting edge of digital twin technology. The University of Leicester provides access to state-of-the-art research facilities including the £100 million Space Park Leicester and the DiRAC High Performance Computing Facility. Our institution is a national leader in Earth observation, and this role presents an exciting opportunity to be part of a transformative programme aligned with the University’s mission of delivering impactful research and innovation.

About You

You will hold a PhD (or have equivalent experience) in a relevant field and bring proven expertise in scientific Python programming. Experience with version control systems, environmental simulations, machine learning frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch, and high-performance computing environments is essential. A background in working with spatial-temporal data, Earth observation, or environmental modelling will be highly advantageous.

We are seeking someone who is enthusiastic, self-motivated, and collaborative, with strong analytical skills and the ability to contribute to both software development and academic research outputs. This is a unique opportunity to develop both professionally and academically, while making a tangible contribution to the University’s strategic research goals.

Additional information

For informal enquiries, please contact Professor Ashiq Anjum at [e-mail] or Professor Heiko Balzter at [e-mail]

We anticipate that interviews will take place in the 1st week of August 2025.

As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying. More information regarding secondments can be found here.

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.

As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.

We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.