Applications Developer - Programmable Cloud Laboratory Initiative (Materials Research Institute)

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., * 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.

Technical Environment

• 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., 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

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

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 support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.