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

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

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CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants .

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants .

This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

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POSITION SPECIFICS ​

The Materials Research Institute (MRI) at Penn State University seeks a n 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.

Key Responsibilities

• •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

S uccessful candidate s will have demonstrated strong problem-solving , communication and collaboration skills and have e xtensive experience developing rich, interactive web applications and dashboards using JavaScript/TypeScript and React or comparable framework s, data visualization libraries, implementation of responsive design, web -based data services , and REST APIs for interactive web application s and dashboards .

Preferred Skills and Experience: It is strong ly 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 .

Application Instructions: To apply , applicants should upload a cover letter detailing their qualification s for and interest in the position, their resume, and name s and contact details (e-mail addresses and telephone numbers) for three professional references . Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Work Arrangement: This position offers flexibility through either a remote work arrangement for individuals residing in eligible states within the US, or a hybrid work arrangement.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

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.

SALARY & BENEFITS

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 .

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, lever