Research Software Engineer (Computational Electronic Structure)

80%-100%, Lugano, permanent

The Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS) develops and operates cutting-edge, high-performance computing (HPC) systems as an essential service facility for science. The centre enables world-class research through its scientific user lab, which is available to domestic and international researchers in academia, industry, and the business sector. The centre is operated by ETH Zurich and has offices in Lugano (headquarters) and Zurich.

Project background

CSCS is leading an effort to develop scientific software and libraries for HPC platforms, supporting complex workflows that simplify access to computing resources. To support this, we develop performance-portable applications and libraries that run efficiently on a large range of hardware platforms.

A special effort is being invested in the development of scientific applications and libraries in the field of electronic structure theory, like Density Functional Theory (DFT) used in chemistry and physics to calculate the electronic structure of atoms, molecules, and solids.

To expand our team and capabilities, CSCS has an open position at one of our offices in Lugano or Zurich for a Research Software Engineer specialized in computational electronic structure.

Job description

As a Research Software Engineer, you will work with Swiss and international domain science experts to develop software in electronic structure theory that can efficiently use different HPC platforms.

Your responsibilities:

  • Collaborate with domain science experts in the field of electronic structure theory from Swiss universities and international projects to define the requirements for future software developments;
  • Design, develop, test, maintain and support applications and libraries in Python, Julia, and possibly in C++ and Fortran;
  • Support the related user community in the utilization of the codes you have developed and improve the services provided by CSCS in this field.

Your profile

You should have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or natural sciences, preferably with a master's, Ph.D., or relevant industry experience.

Expected qualifications:

  • You have a sound knowledge of electronic structure methods and have contributed to development of related applications and libraries;
  • Expertise in C++, Julia and Python is required;
  • You have a sound knowledge of modern software engineering skills, such as computer science, computer architectures, and code optimization.

Knowledge of agile software engineering practices and cloud-native technologies is beneficial.

Your workplace

Your workplace




We offer

CSCS values autonomy, ownership, and continuous learning. Staff members can gain specialised hands-on experience through a variety of challenging activities typical of the HPC field.

  • ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent and flexible working conditions.
  • You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.
  • We value the diversity of our team and to further enhance our workforce's diversity, we encourage women to apply.
Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So are we.

Please include the following documents with your application:

  • Motivation letter
  • CV
  • Relevant certificates and diplomas

To further enhance our workforce's diversity, we encourage women to apply.

We look forward to receiving your online application, including a letter of motivation, CV, diplomas, and employment certificates.

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about CSCS can be found on our website, www.cscs.ch. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Nur Fadel, fadel@cscs.ch (no applications, questions only).

For recruitment services, the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

Curious? So are we.

Please include the following documents with your application:

  • Motivation letter
  • CV
  • Relevant certificates and diplomas

To further enhance our workforce's diversity, we encourage women to apply.

We look forward to receiving your online application, including a letter of motivation, CV, diplomas, and employment certificates.

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about CSCS can be found on our website, www.cscs.ch. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Nur Fadel, fadel@cscs.ch (no applications, questions only).

For recruitment services, the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.