Research Software Engineer

Worky; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chicago's Data Science Institute (DSI) invites applications for a Research Software Engineer to develop software supporting data science for social good, including climate, food systems, and human rights projects. You will collaborate with the software team and interdisciplinary groups to build scalable solutions for computational research.

Candidates should have strong Linux and Python skills, experience with large codebases, familiarity with APIs, web apps, cloud platforms,

Qualifications

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and debug complex software programs.

Skills

Linux

Python

Web applications

APIs

Data-driven software

English communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

Git

CI/CD pipelines

AWS

GCP

Azure

Job description

Department

PSD Data Science: Tech Administration

About the Department

The University of Chicago Data Science Institute (DSI) is a hub for scholars, researchers, educators, and practitioners tackling the methodological, societal, and domain-specific challenges of our increasingly data-driven world. As a leader in the field, DSI drives cutting-edge research, fosters innovation in data education at all levels, and engages in meaningful partnerships with industry, government, and the broader community.

Job Summary

The Research Software Engineer (RSE) will develop software to support DSI’s research priorities and specific initiatives related to data science for social good including resilient food systems, climate, and human rights. The RSE will collaborate with the software team and interdisciplinary research groups across the University of Chicago to develop new software products and build robust, scalable solutions for computational research and public impact projects. This role involves designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software, with an emphasis on high-quality, reusable code. The ideal candidate will have experience working with substantial existing codebases, strong problem-solving skills, and a keen interest in data-driven applications, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. This position is eligible for a partial remote work arrangement.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and debug complex software programs.
• Implement and optimize algorithms for data-intensive research.
• Deploy and maintain systems in both simulated environments and on physical hardware.
• Diagnose and resolve complex system and software issues.
• Execute feature requests independently, with guidance from the PI and project manager on goals and design.
• Collaborate with team members to improve software quality, testability, and fault tolerance.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, supporting faculty, postdoctoral researchers and students in achieving their research objectives.
• Develops, tests, debugs, and maintains new and existing application software.
• Works independently to define and document project requirements and provides overall technical guidance in design, architecture and implementation of software solutions.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Experience:

• Professional experience in software engineering or a related programming field.
• Strong experience with Linux, Python, and at least one additional programming language.
• Experience working with large, existing codebases.
• Experience in building web applications and APIs.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Knowledge of cloud computing platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure, etc.).
• Proficiency in software development best practices, including version control (Git) and CI/CD pipelines.

Preferred Competencies

• Strong project management, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, hybrid work environment, collaborating with faculty, staff, students, and the broader UChicago community.
• Familiarity with virtualization and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes, etc.).
• Expertise in at least one of the following: Developing highly performant solutions to computational problems using Python; Modern frameworks for full-stack web development, including backend (Flask, Node.js), front-end (React, Angular), and/or GIS and spatial data visualization tools; Building AI solutions, including chatbots, RAG, and other LLM-based tools.
• Interest in and experience developing software to support data-driven research.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter (preferred)
• References (3 contacts) (preferred)

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

FLSA Status

Exempt

Pay Range

$110,000.00 - $135,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.