Research Software Engineer - Christchurch

About Our Team

The University of Otago, the oldest university in New Zealand, is seeking a Research Software Engineer to join its eResearch Support team within the Digital Division. This group consists of specialist Research Software Engineers and scientific programmers who develop software tools to facilitate world-class research university-wide. The team prioritizes secure, sustainable, and best-practice aligned research software and digital solutions.

Role Overview

Located in Christchurch, this position provides technical expertise spanning software engineering, scientific computing, data science, and research data management. Collaborating closely with researchers and division colleagues, the engineer will design, develop, and maintain software and data solutions that empower high-quality research. A key responsibility involves supporting the Christchurch Health and Development Study (CHDS), a prestigious longitudinal study tracking 1,265 individuals born in Christchurch in 1977, whose insights have influenced health and social policies internationally for nearly five decades.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and administer CHDS databases ensuring their integrity.
• Develop research data architectures, dictionaries, and metadata standards.
• Create data collection tools, including REDCap-based forms and surveys.
• Assist with statistical analysis and the generation of research reports.
• Manage authorized external requests for data access.
• Contribute actively to research publications, reports, and outputs.
• Establish protocols and deliver training on database usage.
• Support initiatives to enhance research data maturity across the Christchurch campus.

Candidate Requirements

• Postgraduate qualification (Master’s or PhD) in a relevant field or equivalent experience.
• Experience developing software within research, academic, or scientific environments.
• Proficiency with programming languages including but not limited to Python, R, SQL, C/C++, Fortran, or Julia.
• Knowledge and practical application of scientific computing, data science, or computational modeling methods.
• Familiarity with software engineering principles, version control systems, and development best practices.
• Experience with high-performance computing or research infrastructure platforms.
• Understanding of reproducible research methodologies and adherence to FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) and CARE (Collective benefit, Authority to control, Responsibility, Ethics) data principles as well as secure research environments.

Additional Information

This is a permanent, full-time role requiring 37.5 hours per week, based at Ōtautahi, Christchurch. The remuneration band is Digital Specialist Band D ranging between NZD 99,364 and NZD 120,834, with a potential top salary of NZD 127,993 due to an additional salary allocation. The University embraces diversity and inclusivity, valuing contributions from varied backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. Interested candidates may contact Murray Cadzow or James Foulds discreetly for more details.