Principal Software Engineer(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Automotive Jobs
Uk
May 15, 2026
Full Time Permanent
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Job Description

University College London is seeking a talented and experienced Principal Software Engineer to join the UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) Core Informatics Team. This is an exciting opportunity for a senior technology professional to contribute to groundbreaking dementia research by developing advanced data-driven software platforms that support scientific discovery and innovation.

The role is based in London with hybrid working arrangements available, offering flexibility alongside collaboration with leading researchers, engineers, and data scientists across the UK research community.

About the Organisation

UK Dementia Research Institute is one of the world’s leading research institutes focused on understanding neurodegenerative diseases and accelerating the development of treatments and preventative interventions for dementia.

The Core Informatics Team plays a central role in supporting researchers by improving data accessibility, technical infrastructure, collaborative research tools, and national data science capabilities.

About the Role

As Principal Software Engineer, you will take technical ownership of the ongoing development of DataMap — a sophisticated research platform that integrates biological datasets into scalable knowledge graphs for advanced analysis and discovery.

The position combines hands-on engineering with technical leadership responsibilities. You will collaborate closely with researchers and stakeholders to transform scientific requirements into reliable, production-ready software solutions while helping shape the long-term architecture and sustainability of the platform.

This fixed-term position is funded until 31 March 2028 and offers a hybrid working model with a minimum on-site requirement of 20%.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the design, development, and maintenance of large-scale research software platforms
    Develop and improve backend APIs, services, and data pipelines
    Build modern frontend applications using React and TypeScript
    Design and manage graph database systems, particularly Neo4j
    Support cloud-native infrastructure and Kubernetes-based deployments
    Improve software architecture, scalability, observability, and engineering standards
    Collaborate with researchers to translate scientific needs into technical solutions
    Contribute to platform sustainability, documentation, and deployment processes
    Mentor and support engineering best practices within the team

Essential Skills & Experience

Technical Expertise

  • Strong professional software engineering experience in data-intensive or scientific environments
    Advanced knowledge of Python web frameworks and backend development
    Experience developing APIs and distributed systems
    Frontend development experience using React and TypeScript
    Hands-on experience with graph databases, especially Neo4j
    Understanding of cloud or cloud-native platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Kubernetes
    Knowledge of software lifecycle management, deployment, and observability systems

Professional Skills

  • Ability to independently manage complex technical projects
    Strong problem-solving and communication abilities
    Experience collaborating within multidisciplinary teams
    Interest in scientific research, biomedical informatics, or healthcare data systems is advantageous

Salary & Benefits

The successful candidate will receive:

  • Salary between £68,284 – £74,166 per annum including London Allowance
    Flexible hybrid working arrangements
    Access to UCL employee benefits and pension schemes
    Career development and training opportunities
    Inclusive and diverse working environment
    Opportunity to contribute to globally recognised dementia research initiatives

Visa Sponsorship

This position qualifies for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship and may also meet eligibility requirements for the UK Global Talent visa route. International applicants requiring visa sponsorship are encouraged to apply.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

University College London is committed to creating an inclusive working environment that values diversity and equal opportunity. Applications are encouraged from candidates of all backgrounds, including groups currently underrepresented within higher education and technology sectors.

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