Scientific Software Developer

Scientific Software Developer

At the Animal & Plant Health Agency (APHA) we safeguard animal and plant health for the benefit of people, the environment and the economy. The modelling team within our Biomathematics and Risk Research Workgroup have a vital role to play. They provide advanced modelling, software development and scientific computing across the APHA. Joining the team as a Scientific Software Developer, you will support challenging business requirements by delivering vital scientific capabilities around data, analysis and IT.

We will look to you to develop and support a range of important applications. These will include simulation models which help us to understand the spread of animal diseases nationally and the best ways to surveil and manage it. You will also help to estimate epidemiological parameters using machine learning methods. We will rely on you to make important technical decisions through the lifecycle of analytical and infrastructure projects. You will consider each project’s requirements to determine the right technical approach - for example, choosing horizontal or vertical scaling for data analysis challenges, and setting the scope of quality assurance.

Your work will be varied, important and endlessly interesting. Crucially, the work you deliver will have major impact on animal disease control.

Qualified to degree level in a scientific or IT related subject, you will bring to the role demonstrable experience of programming in Java. Experience of test driven development is vital, too. We will also expect you to be familiar with Linux. Ideally, you will have some experience of any of the following: R; algorithms and simulation modelling; Scala/functional programming; JavaScript; Cloud IaaS; Visualization. You will certainly demonstrate the ability to evaluate evidence, solve problems with innovative thinking, and communicate with clarity, conviction and enthusiasm.

To discover more and apply, please visit https://www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk/csr/jobs.cgi?jcode=1571901

Closing date: 14 March 2018.