Web/Coding Developer
Percent
From 25% to 50%Application Deadline
Type
Research AssistantshipPosition Start Date
Description, Responsibilities, and Qualifications
This Web/Coding Developer position supports the Data Storytelling Toolkit for Libraries (DSTL, https://uiucdstl.wixsite.com/uiucdstl) project at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign iSchool. DSTL is a research and toolkit development initiative focused on building tools and pathways that support library professionals in creating and using data storytelling resources.
Position Overview
We seek applicants with web development experience who are comfortable working on an interdisciplinary research team to complete development of a data visualization tool. The work will contribute to implementation and refinement of an existing prototype.
Responsibilities
- Contribute to completion of development of a data visualization tool
- Implement and refine web components within the existing project architecture
- Work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary project team
- Other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
- Strong background in core web development languages (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
- Ability to work effectively in a collaborative research environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience developing with modern open-source web frameworks (e.g., Svelte, 11ty, Jekyll, or comparable performance-optimized systems)
*Dependent on sustained federal funding
Compensation
Position structure:
Hourly work will begin Summer 2026 (~10 hours/week). If performance is strong, duties may expand to a 35-50% Research Assistant position (20 hours/week, dependent on sustained federal funding) beginning Fall 2026, with possible extension through Spring 2027.
Application Procedure
Applicants should familiarize themselves with the DSTL project, including the awarded grant and the PI’s public-facing work as a speaker and consultant (see “talks”), prior to applying.
Please send:
- a passionate and well-evidenced expression of interest (cover letter)
- resume/CV
- email of one professional reference
to Dr. Kate McDowell (kmcdowel@illinois.edu) by March 27 to be considered.
Please use the subject line “DSTL Web RA Application.”
Strong applications will reference at least one specific aspect of the DSTL project, grant description, or the PI’s public talks/consulting work in the cover letter.
In your cover letter, please also include 2–3 sentences describing one improvement you would suggest for the prototype dataset interface:
https://wondrous-fairy-1c9075.netlify.app/datasets
Applicants who demonstrate specific professional interest in humanizing data storytelling for librarianship will be preferred.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and a brief Zoom interview may be required. Online and on-campus students are eligible to apply as long as they reside in the United States.