Scientific Programmer for Wind Resource Assessment Applications - DTU Wind

The Department of Wind and Energy Systems at DTU is internationally recognised for its Wind Resource Assessment software and methodologies. We are expanding how users can interact with our models and data and are seeking a Scientific Programmer to make a significant contribution to new tools within our wind resource assessment brand WAsP. In close collaboration with scientific and technical colleagues, you have a direct impact on bringing tools to a global audience and promoting a renewable energy future.

This position is in the Resource Assessment Modelling Section (RAM), located at our Risø campus. The RAM section conducts research related to the assessment of wind resources for wind energy generation and the estimation of loads on wind turbines and various other structures. Working in the RAM section provides you with access to HPC systems, a canteen with healthy lunch options every day, and opportunities to learn more through in-house seminars and the ability to attend conferences and courses. 

This position’s primary focus is to work closely with researchers and other programmers to provide utilities that benefit the wind energy community. The work involves the following main areas:

• enhancement of existing and development of new code bases with a focus on documentation, rigorous code testing, and automation of app production and deployment
• communication of the best practices from the world of computer science to the research scientists working in the department
• creation of tools that automate everyday tasks, through means of CI/CD pipelines
• work with researchers to create products from their models and methods

The successful candidate will collaborate with other groups within the Wind Energy Department, in cross-disciplinary projects.

Expectation: Our primary programming language for this position is Python. This position will focus mostly on our PyWAsP and Windkit tools, which heavily rely upon the XArray data format. Additionally, you will work with programmers focused on PyWake and TopFarm, and those working on developing web platforms and APIs.  We exclusively use a self-hosted instance of GitLab as our DevOps platform. Besides, being experienced in Python, XArray and Git, we are looking for additional skills from a successful applicant. We are seeking candidates that have around five or more of the skills from the bullets below, with a preference given to those with skills from multiple sections.

Python:

• Experience with Pydantic package for modelling, type checking, and validation of user inputs
• Good knowledge of the scientific Python stack (numpy, xarray, etc.)
• Experience with the Python logging module
• Experience building and deploying Python packages with conda or pip
• Experience with pytest for large projects

DevOps experience with:

• Docker containerization
• Building GitLab CI/CD pipelines

Scientific Background:

• Experience in wind resource assessment and the WAsP Model
• Experience with Fortran
• Experience working with scientific code in Mathematica or Delphi/Pascal

In addition, it is expected that you fulfil the following:

• work independently and to efficiently deliver results on time 
• work as part of a team in a multi-disciplinary environment 
• take the initiative, prioritise and work under set deadlines 
• communicate in English, both verbal and written

What we offer in return 
An exciting job in an international atmosphere with the focus on research, teaching, innovation and scientific advice for the benefit of the society. We place emphasis on a high level of professionalism among our staff, so skills development is an integral part of our organization. In the area of technical and natural sciences, DTU is one of the leading research and education institutions in Europe.

Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

Application and contact
Please submit your online application no later than 23 June 2023. Open the “Apply now” link, fill out the form and attach your motivated application, CV and exam certificates. 

If you would like additional information about the position, please contact Tech Lead Neil Davis at [email protected]  or Head of Section Jake Badger at [email protected] .

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

DTU Wind and Energy Systems is about taking the technology to the next level. About creating an impact for people and society through research and innovation. About collaborating with the entire energy sector to develop the most effective technology on the planet. We have more than 372 staff members of which 68% are researchers, 15 professors, 98 PhDs, 24% women, 39 nationalities The organizational set-up reflects the new role of wind power in the energy systems as well as the continued need for development of new wind turbine technology and materials and components research.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.