Term - Senior Research Software Engineer

Position Summary:

The Research Software Engineer will contribute to the development and validation of a

mobile-enabled platform for infectious disease diagnostics and surveillance. This role is

part of the NIH-funded MEDSCAN project within the Department of Chemistry at Vanderbilt

University. The successful candidate will focus on simulation-driven evaluation of

intelligent sampling strategies and geospatial surveillance models. The position is part-time

and term-limited through June 2026, with flexible hours (expected ~10–30 hrs/week) and

hourly compensation discussed case-by-case. US citizenship is required. Preference will be

given to applicants available to start immediately.

Key Responsibilities:
- Build and test intelligent sampling and workforce optimization logic using geospatial
models
- Simulate surveillance campaigns using synthetic data, population models, and system
instrumentation tools
- Analyze surveillance outcomes using Python, Pandas, and visualization libraries like
Seaborn
- Contribute to full-stack development, including API endpoints and backend infrastructure
(preferred)
- Collaborate with mobile/web engineers, data scientists, and external health partners to
validate system performance
- Assist in project planning, documentation, and reporting

Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Epidemiology, Data Science, or
related field
- Strong Python programming skills (3+ years)
- Experience with Git version control (3+ years)
- Familiarity with data visualization (e.g., Seaborn, Matplotlib) (3+ years)
- Experience in geospatial modeling, infectious disease modeling, or simulation design (2+
years)

• Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience with Google OR-Tools or other optimization frameworks
• Familiarity with networkx or similar graph-based libraries
• Background in full-stack development and deployment (React, NoSQL, Amplify)
• Familiarity with mobile app development
• Experience with interdisciplinary project work and stakeholder coordination

Application Instructions:
To apply, please email a CV and brief cover letter describing your background, interests, and
availability to Thomas.f.scherr@vanderbilt.edu. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling
basis.

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.

Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.