Researcher in Computer Science

Polytechnicpositions; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job description

Faculty/Organisational Unit: Professional Services

Location: Oxford Road

Employment type: Permanent

Division/Team: IT Services Research IT

Hours Per Week: Full time (1 FTE)

Contract Duration: Permanent

School/Directorate: Directorate of IT Services

Job Description

The University is a renowned global institution known for innovation and pioneering achievements, including 25 Nobel Prize winners. It has a historic significance in computing, starting with the 1948 computer known as ‘The Baby’ and the work of wartime codebreaker Alan Turing.

The University has committed to becoming a leading research institution, investing over £750 million so far, with plans for an additional £1 billion.

Research IT (RIT) and the Research Platforms Team

The research community at the University conducts world-class research across various disciplines, including advanced materials, industrial biotechnology, and cancer treatments. RIT is a dynamic team within IT Services that provides critical e-research capabilities.

This role is within the Research Platforms Team, comprising about 25 technical IT specialists, many with research backgrounds. The team develops and supports e-infrastructure platforms such as high-throughput and high-performance computing, research VM platforms, data management, edge computing, and secure platforms for sensitive data, utilizing both on-site hardware and cloud resources like AWS.

About This Role

The successful candidate will focus on developing and supporting the research VM platform, edge compute service, and possibly HTCondor, including:

• Provisioning and template creation for Linux and Windows VMs
• Operational maintenance and security of VMs, user support
• Design and support of edge compute platforms for research groups

The role is approximately split: 50% technical work and 50% user support and engagement. For more details, contact [e-mail].

You Will Have — Essential:

• Relevant work experience
• Deep knowledge of Linux OS, including administration/support
• Knowledge of data storage protocols (NFS, SMB), networking (TCP/IP, firewalls), VMs, containers (e.g., Apptainer/Singularity)
• Experience with at least one high-level programming language (e.g., BASH, Perl, Python)
• Ability to work effectively in a team and build relationships with diverse stakeholders
• Proactive attitude, problem-solving skills, and a positive approach
• Good communication and presentation skills
• Willingness to learn new skills and technologies

You will Have — Desirable:

• Knowledge of MS Windows OS administration/support
• Experience in an academic research environment
• Understanding of cloud infrastructure from major providers
• Experience with HTC/HPC platforms
• Stakeholder management experience

Additional benefits include 29 days annual leave, hybrid working, well-being programs, learning opportunities, travel discounts, and more. For more information, visit Polytechnicpositions.com. Please mention this in your application.