Software Developer edge computing

New affordable in-situ sensors are part of the Internet of Things (IoT) and enable us to build denser environmental sensor networks that measure phenomena more efficiently, which vary greatly in space and time, such as air or noise pollution. However, such dense wireless sensor networks can put additional strain on bandwidth in areas with less network coverage, and they threaten citizens’ privacy. One solution is to move the processing and analysis of collected geodata to the sensors. This type of edge computing has been made possible by advances in deep learning methods on embedded hardware, e.g., TensorFlow Lite for microcontrollers.

You will support our ambitions by working together with colleagues from several departments on projects that use small, affordable sensors (embedded devices) to collect environmental data and submit this data wirelessly. This position will therefore advance our understanding of processing geodata on the (network) edge and combine different geodata sources (remote and in-situ) in reproducible, distributed (networked) workflows. More specifically, you will advance the state-of-the-art in embedded devices and Internet of things technologies (hardware platforms, network protocols) by designing software solutions for environmental sensing using diverse open hardware platforms, adapt and implement major developments in the application of machine learning / AI on embedded devices, and propose and implement new workflows that incorporate IoT technology in research and capacity development projects.

• A relevant diploma in a related field (e.g., software development, computer science) proving knowledge and skills at HBO (higher vocational/professional education) or university level.
• Experience and proficiency in at least three of the following elements, and demonstrated learning capability and willingness, to acquire the remaining ones on the job:
• Experience in assembling, running, troubleshooting and debugging devices built with embedded hardware (e.g., Arduino, Nvidia Jetson (Nano))
• Experience with IDEs for embedded devices like Arduino, PlatformIO.
• Experience or demonstrable potential with AI-based edge computing for analysis-ready data production from IoT sensors
• Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded firmware development
• Experience with Python, PostgreSQL and APIs for backend development and scripting
• Experience working with other software developers, using version control systems such as git and adhering to shared coding standards
• Good command of English (both in speech and writing), including the ability to write clear technical documentation
• Good interpersonal skills (i.e., adapting to content and target audience)
• A pro-active teamwork mentality with good coordination skills

• An inspiring multidisciplinary, international and academic environment. The university offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues in which internationalization is an important part of the strategic agenda
• Position for initially one year (full-time), after which your position can become permanent, subject to a successful evaluation
• Gross monthly salary between € 3,706.00 and € 5,760.00 (depending on experience and qualifications, job profile Developer ICT level 4)
• A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%
• Excellent support for professional and personal development
• A solid pension scheme
• A total of 41 holiday days in case of full-time employment
• Costs for moving to Enschede may be reimbursed