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Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see .
This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Materials Research Institute (MRI) at Penn State University seeks an Applications Developer to develop user-facing software for a new Programmable Cloud Laboratory initiative funded by the National Science Foundation.
This position will be filled at the Applications Developer - Advanced Professional OR Senior Professional level.
The initiative will build upon existing scientific instrumentation and research infrastructure in MRI core facilities to provide researchers with secure remote access to experimental capabilities, data, and AI-enabled tools.
The Applications Developer will develop the Cloud Lab Command Center and related web-based applications through which researchers interact with the facility. The Command Center will provide an integrated suite of tools for learning about instrument capabilities, configuring and submitting workflows, monitoring progress, viewing data as it is generated, analyzing results, and collaborating with other researchers. The position has a strong front-end focus, requiring close collaboration with scientists, facility staff, and backend developers to translate complex experimental processes into intuitive, reliable, and accessible digital experiences.
This is a hands-on development role with ownership of features and product outcomes. As an early member of the Cloud Lab development team, the developer will contribute to software development practices, design standards, and release processes. The successful candidate will be comfortable working in an evolving research environment, learning new technologies as needed, and balancing rapid iteration with the reliability, security, and maintainability expected of a national research resource.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop, test, and maintain responsive web applications for the Cloud Lab Command Center.
- Build interfaces for experiment design, workflow configuration, collaboration, and reporting.
- Develop reusable, accessible, and well-documented UI components.
- Gather requirements and optimize user experiences through collaboration with researchers, facility staff, and software developers.
- Use user feedback and iterative development practices to refine features and improve usability.
- Work closely with backend developers to integrate front-end applications with APIs and data services.
- Consume REST APIs and real-time data streams to provide timely information and updates.
- Support application troubleshooting, quality assurance, and release activities.
JavaScript and TypeScript
React and modern component-based frameworks
HTML5, CSS3, and responsive design
State management and front-end testing frameworks
REST APIs and WebSocket-based integrations
Git and collaborative development workflows
Python
Data visualization libraries
Docker and containerized environments
Scientific applications or research software
AI-enabled tools and scientific data platforms
Successful candidates will have demonstrated strong problem-solving, communication and collaboration skills and have extensive experience developing rich, interactive web applications and dashboards using JavaScript/TypeScript and React or comparable frameworks, data visualization libraries, implementation of responsive design, web-based data services, and REST APIs for interactive web applications and dashboards.
Preferred Skills and Experience: It is strongly preferred that successful candidates have experience with one or more of the following:
- Familiarity with front-end testing frameworks and automated testing practices. UX/UI principles and user-centered design.
- Agile or iterative software-development environments.
- Familiarity with scientific software, research environments, or laboratory systems is a plus but not required.
Application Instructions: To apply, applicants should upload a cover letter detailing their qualifications for and interest in the position, their resume, and names and contact details (e-mail addresses and telephone numbers) for three professional references. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Work Arrangement: This position offers flexibility through either a remote work arrangement for individuals residing in eligible states within the US, or a hybrid work arrangement.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Applications Developer - Advanced Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree
3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
If filled as Applications Developer - Senior Professional, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree
6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $81,312.00 - $137,280.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to
