Scientific Software Developer/Data Systems
Position Overview
Job Description
The Experimental Data Systems (EDS) division within the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) Directorate at SLAC is seeking a Computational Beamline Scientist to work on the deployment and optimization of complex computational workflows, and on their integration in day-to-day facility operations.
Job Purpose
As a Software Developer in the LCLS Data Management Department, you will work within an interdisciplinary team of software developers, scientists, and engineers. Responsibilities include adapting and optimizing codes for beamline deployment and user interaction, including designing user interfaces and discovering and implementing efficient usage patterns and practices.
Responsibilities
- Analyze, develop, implement, modify, and maintain algorithms and pipelines to analyze scientific data generated by LCLS.
- Develop, optimize, and maintain data analysis workflows and optimize them for their use in day-to-day facility operations.
- Interface with external collaborators and users and provide technical support to facilitate their use of LCLS software and hardware resources.
- Support the development of new machine learning data analysis approaches with explicit focus on usability by beamline scientists and scientific users.
- Support users of the scientific instruments in running self-developed data analysis software within the LCLS software framework, consulting with external software developers and designing integrated solutions.
- Debug and document computer application programs to meet users' needs.
- Observe, analyze and optimize software resource usage patterns, including training current and future users.
- Ensure effective communication and information flow to various audiences.
- Build and maintain relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.
- Promote a culture of safety and compliance with all applicable university policies and procedures.
Additional Opportunities
- Participate in and contribute to general group research activities.
- Represent your research results at seminars, scientific conferences, and workshops.
To Be Successful In This Position
- You will bring a Bachelor’s degree in physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, science, or related field and five years of relevant experience; or a combination of education and relevant experience.
- You should have a thorough understanding of all aspects of software development life cycle and quality control practices.
- You should have strong knowledge of at least one programming language.
- You should have expertise in developing, testing, and deploying applications.
- You should have operational experience with scientific AI-based algorithms and frameworks, including LLMs.
- You should be able to define and solve logical problems for highly technical applications.
- You should have effective communication skills with both technical and non-technical clients.
- You should have demonstrated experience leading activities on structured team development projects.
- You should have the ability to recognize and recommend needed changes in user and/or operations procedures.
Preferred Requirements
- A background in x-ray or material science.
- Previous experience in roles related to operations at a scientific facility.
Physical Requirements And Working Conditions
Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job. Work Standard Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations. Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for environment, safety and security; communicates related concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Meets the applicable roles and responsibilities as described in the ESH Manual, Chapter 1�General Policy and Responsibilities: http://www.group.slac.stanford.edu/esh/eshmanual/pdfs/ESHch01.pdf