InterPro/Pfam Software Project Leader

TL;DR

InterPro/Pfam Software Project Leader (AI-first software development): Lead the Pfam/InterPro software development team and drive a transition to AI-assisted development practices with an accent on software architecture, database schema design, and reliable delivery of production-grade platform milestones. Focus on embedding AI coding assistants into CI/CD workflows, scaling and maintaining Pfam/InterPro systems, and coordinating agile releases while improving code quality and reducing technical debt.

Location: Hinxton, Cambridgeshire (hybrid working patterns)

Salary: £4,206 per month (after tax; excluding pension and insurance contributions)

Company

hirify.global-EBI (hirify.global) develops and operates large biological databases and tools used by the global research community.

What you will do

• Lead the Pfam/InterPro software development team, managing workload, priorities, and professional development.
• Drive AI-first development by embedding AI coding tools (e.g., Claude Code, GitHub Copilot) into production workflows.
• Own architecture and design decisions for Pfam and InterPro, ensuring scalability, maintainability, and performance.
• Design and maintain relational and NoSQL database schemas for large-scale protein family and domain annotation data.
• Run agile delivery cycles (sprint planning, code review, CI/CD pipeline management, release coordination).
• Oversee containerised deployments using Kubernetes and cloud-native services; collaborate with bioinformaticians and data scientists to translate requirements into software.

Requirements

• Degree in Computer Science/Software Engineering (or related) or equivalent professional experience.
• Substantial experience in software design and architecture for large-scale, production-grade systems.
• Proven experience using AI coding tools (e.g., Claude Code, Codex, GitHub Copilot, Cursor) in a production environment.
• Strong Python skills with experience building and maintaining production services.
• Expertise in database design for relational (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL) and/or NoSQL systems.
• Experience leading or mentoring a software development team; strong communication in a multidisciplinary, international environment.

Nice to have

• Experience with Kubernetes and cloud-native deployments.
• Java and/or web technologies (REST APIs, React, JavaScript/TypeScript).
• Background in bioinformatics or life-sciences software development; familiarity with Pfam/InterPro resources.
• Contributions to open-source projects.

Culture & Benefits

• Hybrid working arrangements.
• Private medical insurance for you and your immediate family.
• Generous time off: 30 days annual leave plus public holidays.
• Relocation package available (installation grant if required).
• Campus benefits including free shuttle, on-site library, subsidised gym and cafeteria, and sports/social clubs.
• Benefits for non-UK residents including visa exemption and travel/education support.

Hiring process

• Submit a cover letter and CV via the online system.
• Applications close at 23:59 CET on 05/07/2026; responses provided within two weeks after the closing date.