Messages from Usenet group comp.lang.idl-pvwave, compiled by Paulo Penteado
Well, the subject is really apropos. Originally, I was going to post to ask for the best location to find scientific programmers, but then I thought, well this is as good a place to find one as to ask where to find one. So: 1. If you were looking to find a good scientific programmer. Someone who is a skilled programmer with a scientific/mathematical background with experience in large data set management or scientific data formats, where would you post the job description? 2. If you're a talented scientific programmer, maybe you'd be interested in our position: NSIDC is seeking someone with a science background and programming knowledge and interest, to help make Earth science data accessible and useful to our science communities. This Science Programmer will work on several projects, including a major new NASA campaign called IceBridge (http://nsidc.org/data/icebridge) to study Earth’s polar regions. You will work on a team of scientists and other data center staff to solve data analysis and data processing problems, helping scientists get better data faster. Specifically, you may translate research algorithms into working programs, develop database applications, and develop quality assurance procedures for the resulting data sets. You will also document the design and use of the programs and procedures. We need to integrate a large quantity of disparate data sources into common formats, so you will learn about a wide array of scientific data sets. The most helpful background for this position would be a degree in physical sciences or math, plus training or experience in programming. You will need a basic understanding of statistical methods, and an interest in geospatial analysis. Knowledge of satellite or airborne radar or altimetry data, and of applications of altimetry data to ice sheet surface and bed topography, would be very helpful, but are not required. Other important ingredients include working with others to define and refine requirements, staying current with latest technologies and software engineering practices, and keeping current with relevant scientific research. You will have access to experienced mentors, but you will be responsible for much of your own learning and for keeping up with the science and technology needed for your work. A complete, formal job description and application procedures are available at http://nsidc.org/about/jobs/nsidc_13.html. Hope I get a good answer to at least one of my questions. Thanks everyone, Matt