Computational Scientist📣 Job Ad

About the Role

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is seeking a Computational Scientist to provide comprehensive support and training for users of laboratory systems and their software applications. This full-time position involves advanced support in computational science and engineering, big data analysis, machine learning, and related fields. The role requires 0-1 years of experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide timely user support via telephone, walk-in, email, and ticketing systems, handling advanced inquiries.
• Maintain high customer service standards in addressing user issues and questions.
• Install, port, and tune parallel applications, tools, and data analysis software stacks.
• Stay current with scientific, technical, and professional advancements through collaboration, training, conferences, and independent learning.
• Maintain broad knowledge of state-of-the-art computer technology, equipment, and systems, supporting benchmarking for future procurements.
• Review and prepare documentation for systems, tests, and software installations.
• Deliver individual and group instruction and training, becoming a campus reference in a topic of expertise.
• Develop software tools and parallel application libraries to support research projects in cluster systems.
• Develop software application benchmarks for periodic upgrades of laboratory systems.
• Pursue research activities aligned with laboratory goals and personal strengths, seeking co-authorship and engaging in scientific communication.
• Perform additional duties as required for lab operation and assigned by line managers.

Responsibilities for Senior Candidates (L5)

Senior candidates are expected to take on additional leadership responsibilities:

• Contribute to and lead major tasks in lab leadership projects, such as the refresh of the Shaheen Supercomputer, as assigned.
• Initiate collaborative projects and activities with other groups within the lab and across other core labs.
• Increase national and international visibility of KAUST and Core Labs through active participation and representation in relevant events.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Expertise in using or supporting computational science and engineering, data analysis, and AI applications in HPC environments.
• Demonstrated ability to support research activities in an HPC environment.
• Proven ability to work successfully in a highly collaborative research setting.
• Proficiency in programming HPC applications and tools (*, Fortran, C/C++, Python, MPI, OpenMP, CUDA, OpenACC).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Creative and innovative with initiatives to improve lab operations.
• Flexible and capable of delivering high-quality results within deadlines.
• Strong planning and organizational skills.
• Ability to work in teams, influence peers, and achieve results.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-cultural environment.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare written and deliver oral reports in English.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.

Additional Competencies for Senior Candidates (L5)

• Track record of publications and contributions in computational science and engineering and data analysis venues.
• Ability to become a reference scientist for commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within the field.
• Strong team player with a track record of initiative and responsiveness.
• Organizational understanding and global thinking.
• Mastery of project management principles and practices.
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with autonomy.