Loïc Huder - Software developer for data visualization and analysis

“The ESRF strikes home twice for me: I get to satisfy my curiosity for cutting-edge science and work on fast-changing web technologies. Originally from Nancy, I studied physics in Paris and moved to Grenoble for my PhD. After a short spell in academic research, I turned to my second passion, software engineering. The dynamic science and technology environment in Grenoble meant I could develop my skills in this field in parallel to my physics degree. After a PhD at CEA and a couple of years at the CNRS developing tools for the visualization of scientific data, I presented my work at a workshop organised by neighbouring institute ESRF. My now team leader approached me with a job offer based on my skills. At the ESRF, I use my expertise in both physics and programming. I develop interfaces that transform raw data in HDF5 files into meaningful graphics, enabling the scientists to assess rapidly their data. I love learning new things and tackling new challenges in science, software engineering and, more recently, outdoors. Since moving to Grenoble, I’ve taken up cycling. The terrain makes for a harder climb than on the roads around Nancy, but the learning process and satisfaction of being able to clock my progression make it an irresistible challenge.”

Loïc studied physics at École Centrale Paris. He moved to Grenoble to study for a PhD in condensed-matter physics at the CEA (French Atomic Agency). Before joining the ESRF in 2020, he worked as a software engineer at ISTerre (CNRS - French National Research Institute) for 2 years.