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Serious Game Software Developer (Part-Time)

Details


1090878


University of Warwick


03/02/2025


Other - See Job


Part time 0.3 FTE


Not Applicable

Pay


£16.07


£1.94

Description

Role

We are seeking a talented and motivated Software Developer to join our team on a part-time basis (0.3 FTE). In this role, you will support an Interdisciplinary Research Development Fund project to develop and test a minimum viable prototype of a serious game that integrates data and behavioural sciences to enhance water security in the Global South under climate change. This project aims to create an engaging and educational tool that enhances understanding and nurtures collaborative decision-making regarding water management and resource sustainability.

You will be part of an interdisciplinary team with researchers from the School for Cross-Faculty Studies (Institute for Global Sustainable Development) and the Departments of Computer Science, Economics, and Psychology. You will support the project lead/co-leads in the technical development of the prototype, working closely with a research assistant responsible for serious game design, testing, research, and reporting. This position is ideal for an individual with experience in software development (particularly in the context of serious games and interactive applications) and a strong interest in working with an interdisciplinary research team of environmental, behavioural, and data scientists.

For more information about serious game applications and design, see the Serious Games Cookbook: https://publishing.warwick.ac.uk/index.php/uwp/catalog/book/31

Duties and responsibilities

  • Collaborate with the Project Lead and research team to understand the requirements and objectives for the serious game prototype.
  • Develop the technical infrastructure for the serious game as a mobile app, ensuring it meets the project's goals for user engagement and data collection.
  • Implement game mechanics based on the project's design specifications, including programming interactive elements and user interfaces.
  • Conduct testing and debugging of the prototype to ensure functionality and optimise the user experience.
  • Provide technical support and training to team members involved in testing and using the game.
  • Document code and development processes for future reference and to support project scalability.

Skills and experience

  1. A degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field.
  2. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.
  3. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
  4. Experience with game development frameworks and tools (e.g., Unity, Unreal Engine) is highly desirable.
  5. Proficiency in Python and JavaScript is essential for backend and frontend integration. Familiarity with Java (for Android) or Swift (for iOS) would be beneficial for platform-specific features.
  6. Experience with Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) such as Android Studio, Xcode, or Visual Studio Code for app development and debugging.
  7. Familiarity with Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth, or LAN-based server communication tools necessary for enabling device-to-server communication without internet connectivity.
  8. Experience in designing offline game frameworks for smartphone-server interactions, enabling real-time, turn-based gameplay.
  9. Experience in developing flexible NPC models with both static and AI-driven behaviours.
  10. Knowledge of secure offline data storage, device-to-server communication, and synchronisation across devices, enabling direct, internet-free connections for real-time updates and turn-based interactions

Location
Hybrid

Additional information

How to Apply

  • Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and interest in this role. 
  • The deadline for applications is Sunday 12 January 2025. 
  • Interview are scheduled to take place on Friday 24 January 2025. 
  • Start and end date: Monday 3 February 2025 until Thursday 31 July 2025

Please note upon applying for this role you are consenting to your contact details being shared directly with the hiring manager.

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