Data Visualization Coordinator

Description

In the fall 2012, the Brown University Library will open a state-of-the-art Digital Scholarship Lab, which will feature a high-resolution tiled video display wall, surround sound, and the ability to interact with the wall using peripheral devices. The Digital Scholarship Lab will provide the facilities for scholars across the disciplines to engage with research data using advanced visualization software, to examine and compare high-resolution digital content, and to experience audiovisual media in a setting unique on Brown’s campus. The Lab will complement other visualization resources on campus, including the Center for Computing and Visualization’s CAVE and the Granoff Center for the Creative Arts.

The Data Visualization Coordinator oversees the operation of the Digital Scholarship Lab (DSL) and identifies, installs, and supports software to facilitate information visualization across multiple disciplines within the context of the DSL. The position is responsible for providing instruction and outreach to faculty, students, and interdisciplinary campus groups in their use of the DSL, and will support individual and course-based visualization projects. S/He provides leadership in developing visualization services in concert with complementary services on campus and responds to student and faculty teaching and learning needs as well as research computing strategies as they make use of the DSL. The position reports to the Director of Library Digital Technologies and is a member of the Center for Digital Scholarship within the Brown University Library.

Responsibilities:

• Ensures that the DSL space and equipment are fully functional and accessible to campus users  
• Advises, supports, and trains students and faculty from all academic disciplines in the visualization of data  
• Leads workshops and training sessions on information visualization   tools and techniques, in the context of the DSL
• Identifies, installs, and supports relevant software packages  
• Advises on specifications for DSL equipment and rendering hardware  
• Maintains a current awareness of emerging trends in data visualization  
• Creates guides and interfaces to enhance the usability of data within the DSL  
• Supports the development of research proposals for external funding for visualization activities  
• Collaborates on projects in the Center for Digital Scholarship and other library units as needed

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in a field related to information visualization or equivalent combination of education and experience. Preference for a second advanced degree in a related field  
• At least three years of experience working in the area of information visualization or demonstrated technical experience in a related area  
• Ability to work with data from a variety of sources (e.g., XML, relational databases, web services)  
• Experience with at least one or more programming languages (e.g., C,   C++, Java, Perl, Python, R, Processing)  
• Experience with data visualization tools and programming libraries  
• Previous experience supporting information visualization in a research setting  
• Experience working with scientific data; geospatial/geo-referenced data collections  
• Knowledge of data presentation technologies and interactive touch technologies  
• Ability to work effectively with large data sets  
• Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication skills  
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team

To apply for this position (JOB #B01394), please visit Brown’s Online Employment website (https://careers.brown.edu), complete an application online, attach documents, and submit for immediate consideration. Documents should include cover letter, resume, and the names and e-mail addresses of three references. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled. *Brown University is an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Employer*.

-- Jean Rainwater Head, Integrated Technology Services Brown University Library 10 Prospect Street / Box A Providence, Rhode Island 02912 401.863.9031 Jean_Rainwater@brown.edu