Python / Django / Postgress developer

Do you have experience with developing applications in Python / Django and in database engineering, and would you enjoy working in a vibrant, internationally-oriented ecological research institute? Then we're looking for you!

What will you be doing?

You will help to integrate our application submit.cr-birding.org with our other software for the management of large amounts of data on marked birds. You will do the necessary adjustments in the Python / Django front- and backend that are needed for this and help build a new Postgress database that serves this and other applications. You will work closely together with at least one other developer on the project.

Working at NIOO-KNAW

The Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) in Wageningen is a leading research institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW). NIOO-KNAW conducts and promotes cutting-edge ecological research on biodiversity, climate change and the sustainable use of land and water, communication specialists. The NIOO offers a vibrant research community with about 30 nationalities. The NIOO has 4 research departments and a central management and services department. You will be based at the Vogeltrekstation, one of the Research Infrastructures at NIOO-KNAW aimed at collecting, curating, and exchanging data on marked birds in the Netherlands in order to generate knowledge for science, policy and conservation. Vogeltrekstation manages a network of over 500 volunteer and professional bird ringers and works closely with similar organisations across Europe. The small and dynamic team of four permanent staff, including an experienced application and database engineer, is led by the Animal Ecology department of the NIOO-KNAW.

What will you be contributing?

You combine experience in developing relational databases in several SQL-dialects with developing applications in Python / Django. You are used to working in a team and are able to translate the needs of researchers into actionable database solutions. You adhere to open-source programming and are used to work with version control software, such as Git. You are not afraid of updating legacy-applications into modern-day solutions. Additional experience in working in C# or a similar programming language is a bonus.

Furthermore, you have:

• A relevant qualification at at least a higher professional education (HBO) level or a relevant university degree
• Some experience in a similar role
• Proven experience with all standard Microsoft Office applications
• Knowledge in more than one programming language works to your advantage
• Strong communication skills
• Full Professional Proficiency in English
• Some proficiency in the Dutch language would qualify as a bonus

What are we offering?

This is a full-time position (1.0 FTE) on a fixed-term contract for a period of 5,5 months. The start date is to be agreed but preferably as soon as possible. You will be based in Wageningen, the Netherlands.

Would you like to know more?

Further information about this vacancy can be obtained from Dr H.P. van der Jeugd (tel. 0317-47 34 63, email: h.vanderjeugd@nioo.knaw.nl). Information about the NIOO can be found at www.nioo.knaw.nl.

How to apply

Please send a CV and a cover letter in which you indicate how your work could contribute to the development and administration of new and legacy database and how your track record could help to deliver the work.

This vacancy is open until 1 November 2026, but we may close the application procedure earlier when a suitable candidate has been found. Interviews will take place as soon as possible.

Terms of employment

Depending on education and experience the minimum salary is €3.873 and the maximum salary is €5.264 gross per month for a full-time appointment (scale 9 cao Nederlandse Universiteiten/KNAW). This is exclusive of 8% vacation allowance, 8.3% year-end bonus, travel allowance, internet allowance, home working allowance and pension accrual with ABP.

The KNAW offers its staff an excellent package of secondary benefits. A package that meets the different needs of employees depending on their stage of life, lifestyle or career ambitions. For example, by working an extra two hours a week, it is possible to increase the number of days off from 29 to 41 days a year (with full-time employment).

For a complete overview of the terms of employment, please refer to the web page: Work for the Academy.

Applying for a Certificate of Good Conduct can be part of the employment procedure.

Diversity & Inclusion

The KNAW considers a working environment in which everyone feels welcome and appreciated of great importance. A working environment in which attention is paid to individual quality and where development opportunities are paramount. Together we strive for an inclusive culture in which we embrace differences. We would therefore like to invite candidates who want to contribute to this through their background and experience. In the event of equal suitability, preference will be given to the candidate who thus enhances diversity within the Academy.

We will not respond to any supplier enquiries based on this job advertisement.