NMSU Research Assistant – Software Infrastructure for Scientific Computing (Undergraduate or Graduate)

Position Title: NMSU Research Assistant – Build Systems and Packaging for Open-Source Scientific Software

Supervisor: Dr. Huidae Cho, Associate Professor & NMSU PI, NSF POSE Project (NSF Award #2303651)

Overview: We are seeking a motivated NMSU undergraduate or graduate student to contribute to a software engineering project focused on improving the infrastructure of an open-source geospatial software ecosystem—GRASS. This NSF-funded effort supports the long-term sustainability and usability of critical scientific tools by modernizing build systems, packaging, and automation workflows.

Responsibilities: Depending on experience and availability, responsibilities may include:

• Migrating legacy Makefile-based build systems to modern CMake (C/C++, Python integration)
• Developing and testing Conda packaging workflows for Windows, Linux, and macOS
• Configuring CI/CD pipelines using GitHub Actions
• Writing or improving developer documentation
• Assisting with dependency management and cross-platform builds

Required Qualifications (All Levels):

• Familiarity with Git and GitHub
• Programming experience in Python or C/C++
• Interest in scientific software or open-source development
• Willingness to learn tools such as CMake, Conda, and CI/CD systems

Preferred Qualifications (Graduate or Advanced Undergraduate Students):

• Experience with CMake or other build systems
• Prior exposure to Python packaging or Conda environments
• Familiarity with continuous integration tools (e.g., GitHub Actions)
• Comfortable working in a Linux-based development environment

What You’ll Gain:

• Hands-on experience with real-world software infrastructure
• Exposure to sustainable open-source development practices
• Mentorship and training in professional DevOps tools
• A role on a nationally funded NSF project with real impact

Position Details:

• Flexible hours: ~10–20/week (graduate) or ~8–15/week (undergraduate)
• Start Date: Fall 2025 or ASAP
• Duration: 1–2 semesters, with possible extension

Please contact Dr. Cho at hcho@nmsu.edu if you’re qualified and interested in this position.