Senior Software Developer for Space Instrumentation

Applications are invited for the position of Software Developer for Space Instrumentation

The post is full time and available initially for a fixed-term duration of 24 months

The post holder will join the Oxford Space instrumentation group to support the development of the MIRMIS instrument for the European Space Agency’s Comet Interceptor mission and the optical ground support equipment for Ariel Exoplanet Space Telescope.  The MIRMIS instrument is a novel, compact imaging infrared radiometer and spectrometer being developed for planetary science applications in the Department of Physics, University of Oxford, in collaboration with VTT Finland.  The Ariel mission is an international collaboration and Oxford in partnership with the University of Lisbon are developing the optical ground test system. The post holder will work with the existing Oxford MIRMIS and Ariel teams to assist with development of software and data acquisition systems to support instrument integration and testing.

As the post holder you will:

•         Lead the translation of instrument specification and test requirements into technical specifications where required. 

•         Assist with the planning, analysis, and design of algorithms to support MIRMIS instrument and Ariel ground test operations

•         Prototype code design, test, and validation

•         Testing project deliverables, developing technical documentation and communicating implementation details to end users, including external organisations (e.g. European Space Agency (ESA)).

•         Ensuring that project work is completed to appropriate coding standards and participation in code reviews.

•         Presentation of results at internal and external meetings and reviews as part of the MIRMIS and Ariel instrument teams.

•         Code development and deployment.

•         Support MIRMIS instrument testing and calibration activities.

•         Support Ariel payload ground test campaign.

•         Working closely with other members of the MIRMIS and Ariel project teams to deliver the instrument and test facilities.

•         Working closely with other members of the MIRMIS and Ariel teams to ensure that development workflows adhere to project requirements and timelines.

•         Managing expectations with regards to timeframes and deliverables, communicating issues in a clear, balanced, and timely manner

A software engineering qualification and experience with space flight development would be an advantage.

The post-holder will have the opportunity to teach.  This may include lecturing, small group teaching, and tutoring of undergraduates and graduate students.

Please direct enquiries about the role to Neil Bowles. ([email protected])

Only applications received before midday on 12 April 2024  can be considered. You will be required to upload a letter of application/supporting statement, CV and details of two referees as part of your online application.