Main Purpose of Job To design, build and use innovative geographical information system, database and other software systems to deliver the Land Systems Research team’s analysis for a range of customers. This involves sourcing, evaluating, integrating and manipulating very large and complex geographical (spatial and spatio-temporal) datasets and developing bespoke software and database structures to store and manipulate these datasets. Main Duties of Postholder All aspects of the application development and analysis lifecycle with importance placed on quality control of research outputs. Liaising directly with research clients in agreeing and adapting research specifications. Working with data providers to ensure that the research is based on the best available data rather than accepting the limitations of existing sources and practices. Communicating research outputs to policy stakeholder and other end-user audiences through web mapping applications, participation in workshops, writing technical reports, contributing to peer-reviewed publications Person Specification Essential Criteria Education/Qualifications: A BSc (or equivalent) that includes at least two years of geographical computation or database/software development,OR An MSc (or equivalent) that includes at least nine months of geographical computation or database/software development. Relevant subjects may include (but are not limited to) geo-informatics and computer science. Experience: Demonstrated ability to work effectively in small teams and independently. Experience in research or consultancy roles. Technical Skills: Software Development:Proficiency in developing and maintaining scalable analysis tools using languages such as Python, R, Bash, PHP, HTML, and JavaScript. Skills in process analysis, knowledge elicitation, and version control. Geographical Information Systems (GIS):Ability to specify and design bespoke spatial analyses. Skills in presenting complex geographical data through maps or visualizations. Competence in interactive and data-driven web-mapping applications using ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Maps SDK for JavaScript. Proficiency in proprietary or open-source GIS tools (e.g., ESRI Suite, QGIS, GDAL). Experience in GIS programming languages, including Python, SQL, and R. Database Development:Expertise in relational databases for spatial analysis (e.g., PostgreSQL, PostGIS). Knowledge of designing databases using techniques such as entity-relationship design, data-flow analysis, and normalization. Ability to implement and maintain large-scale relational databases. Dashboard Development:Skills in creating dashboards to present complex datasets, including online tools like MS Power BI and ArcGIS Online Dashboard. Communication: Ability to create and manage websites for research output communication. Strong technical documentation skills. Effective verbal communication in client and stakeholder interactions. Preparation of high-standard research data for inclusion in scientific outputs. Contribution to technical reports and peer-reviewed publications. Scientific Knowledge: Interest or experience in topics such as sustainability, land use, farming systems, rural economy and society, and climate change. Other Skills: Evidence of being organized, rigorous, conscientious, and self-motivated. Innovative thinking. Desirable Criteria Education/Qualifications: Undergraduate or postgraduate degree in geography or a related discipline. Professional certification in GIS, database development, or relevant software systems. Experience: Collaboration with research partners/clients through meetings, workshops, demonstrations, and networking technologies. Other Skills: Full UK driving license (or equivalent). Willingness to work offsite and travel internationally. This advert will close on 12 January 2025 with interviews in week commencing 20 January 2025. Benefits Offered Employee Assistance Programme- A confidential service available to support employees and their families with work or personal problems. Annual Leave – Generous entitlement up to 40.5 days a year, with guaranteed time-off for Christmas. Pension - Employer Contribution of 15% in a Personal Pension Plan and employee contribution flexibility. Self-managed hours and Flexible Working – options to structure your working time, in line with organisational needs, to create a healthy work life balance. Please note, when submitting your application, we are aware of an issue with the current eligibility status question. If you are a UK Citizen, please select any one of the options listed and advise of your correct eligibility status in your covering letter. For any other eligibility status, please select as appropriate.