Software Engineer / Software Engineeress

Join the Computational Evolution Group at ETH Zürich

The Computational Evolution Group, led by Prof. Dr. Tanja Stadler, in the Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering (D-BSSE) at ETH Zürich operates at the intersection of mathematics, computer science, and evolutionary biology. Our mission is to develop innovative methods aimed at understanding evolutionary, ecological, epidemiological, and developmental processes on multiple scales using genetic data.

In our projects, we translate cutting-edge scientific research into production-ready software solutions. Specifically, we create genomic databases, web applications, and APIs to enable real-time monitoring of pathogen variants and address pressing epidemiological questions. Our collaborative efforts extend to public health agencies and scientific communities around the world.

Position: Junior Software Engineer

We are seeking a Junior Software Engineer to join our dynamic interdisciplinary team. This fixed-term position will commence in June 2026 and extend for one year.

Our projects are primarily focused on the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic response. Given the rapid increase in available genome sequences and the critical need to track emerging variants, we have developed software to aid in the detection and monitoring of new variants while facilitating the management and sharing of pathogen sequencing data.

Key Responsibilities

• Extend an existing database system for viral sequencing data.
• Design, implement, and test a novel scalable database system for bacterial pangenome data based on an existing prototype.
• Collaborate with other users and scientists to identify and refine needs and requirements.

We believe in good software engineering practices, incorporating code reviews and automated testing pipelines. Our goal is to write modern, clean, and maintainable code while following agile methodologies. We welcome suggestions that enhance team collaboration and efficiency.

Qualifications

We are looking for a motivated colleague who is eager to learn and contribute to the fields of public health and genomic epidemiology. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:

• Experience in bacterial bioinformatics, particularly with pangenome data (relevant publications are advantageous).
• Strong proficiency in Python, with familiarity in tools such as mypy, black, and ruff being beneficial.
• Experience in web development, preferably using TypeScript and React.
• Experience in developing database engines and knowledge of core database properties and their implementation; C++ experience is highly beneficial.
• Background in phylogenetics and (Bayesian) phylodynamics.
• A Master’s degree in computer science, bioinformatics, or a related field.
• An interest in collaborating with an interdisciplinary and international team while promoting an open and inclusive group culture.

Working Environment

The working language in our group is English; knowledge of German is not required. We are open to candidates of all experience levels, and we strongly encourage applications from individuals of diverse demographic groups and personal backgrounds.

We offer a dynamic and supportive working environment with flexible hours, alongside exciting projects that have direct impacts on public health. We also prioritize personal growth and career development, providing funding for relevant courses, workshops, and events.

Switzerland is renowned for its excellent quality of life, offering beautiful natural scenery and outstanding infrastructure. We are excited to demonstrate why Basel, ranked the tenth most livable city in the world by Mercer, is an incredible place to live and work!

Application Process

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. We look forward to receiving your application, including the following documents:

• Letter of motivation: Please express your interest in the position and why you believe you would be a strong candidate.
• Curriculum Vitae: Include your publication record and any programming languages and frameworks with which you are familiar.
• Links to code samples or open-source projects are appreciated.

For further information about our group, please visit our website. If you have any questions (no applications), feel free to contact Chaoran Chen at chaoran.chen@bsse.ethz.ch.