Are you interested in developing software solutions to advance scientific research practice, specifically in the field of cognitive neuroscience?

The Developmental Psychology programme group of the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences is looking for a skilled and motivated scientific programmer. In this role, you will be responsible for maintaining and further developing the HALFpipe data processing pipeline (https://github.com/HALFpipe/HALFpipe), which is used by neuroscientists across the globe to collaborate in their research. The HALFpipe development team is embedded in the vibrant international research consortium ENIGMA (https://enigma.ini.usc.edu), which aims to understand brain structure, function, and disease, based on brain imaging and genetics data.

What are you going to do

• You will be a maintainer of the open-source MRI data processing software HALFpipe, with a focus on test-driven development and continuous integration;
• You will collaborate with international research teams to identify areas for improvement and optimisation of the software;
• You will develop new features and functionality as needed with a focus on usability and making them accessible to non-technical users;
• You will troubleshoot and debug issues with the software;
• You will review existing code and write clear, well-documented new code;
• You will join regular (online) meetings with stakeholders.

What do you have to offer

The HALFpipe development team is seeking a candidate who feels comfortable to operate in an international team of researchers in the field of (cognitive) neuroscience. You are skilled in navigating the diverse needs of stakeholders, while keeping in mind the practical feasibility of their implementation. Self-regulation, time management, and structured work are among your greatest strengths. Importantly, you are highly motivated to advance scientific knowledge through the development of innovative tools.

Your profile:

• You have strong programming skills in Python;
• You have demonstrable experience in software development (e.g., GitHub);
• You are proficient in English (both spoken and written);
• You enjoy working in an academic environment;
• You possess excellent problem-solving skills;
• You can communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders;
• You have a structured working style and a keen eye for detail;
• You value the principles of team science and open science.

Knowledge of Nipype, and/or experience with neuroimaging, (cognitive) neuroscience, or other relevant fields are an advantage, but not a prerequisite for this position.

What can we offer you

The position concerns temporary employment of 38 hours per week for a maximum term of two years (although part-time employment for a longer term would be possible as well). The initial employment is for one year and will be prolonged following a positive assessment and barring altered circumstances. For this position the University Job Classification profile “ICT Developer” applies.

Depending on your experience, the minimum salary is €3.226 and the maximum salary is €4.332 gross per month based on a 38-hour working week, in keeping with salary scale 10, as per the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities. This amount already includes the increase as of 1 August due to the result of the CLA NU 2023 negotiations.

We additionally offer an extensive package of secondary benefits, including 8% holiday allowance and a year-end bonus of 8.3%.

What else do we offer

• A position in which initiative and input are highly valued.
• Working with an enthusiastic international team of scientists.
• The possibility to (co-)author international research articles.
• The opportunity to travel to international meetings, symposia, and conferences.
• Flexible working hours and the possibility to work from home.
• An inspiring academic and international working environment in the heart of Amsterdam.
• The UvA offers excellent possibilities for further professional development and education.

About us

The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest spectrum of degree programmes. It is an intellectual hub with 39,000 students, 6,000 employees and 3,000 doctoral students who are all committed to a culture of inquiring minds.

A challenging work environment with a variety of duties and ample scope for individual initiative and development within an inspiring organization. The social and behavioural sciences play a leading role in addressing the major societal challenges faced by the world, the Netherlands and Amsterdam, now and in the future.

Want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

Questions

Do you have any questions, or do you require additional information? Please contact Dr. Ilya Veer, Assistant Professor, via i.m.veer@uva.nl.

Job Application

Do you recognize yourself in the job profile? Then we look forward to receiving your application/motivation letter AND resume in pdf format via the link below.

The response period closes on 1 September 2023. Unfortunately, we cannot process applications that we receive after the response period, that are not sent via the link, or that are incomplete.

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritize diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

No agencies please.