Nicola Esposito, Full Stack Software Engineer, Corintis

To help current students and recent graduates navigate the world of work, several USI Alumni shared their career paths and career story. Here the story of Nicola Esposito, Full Stack Software Engineer at Corintis in Lausanne (CH). USI Degrees: Master in Computational Science, 2022 and Bachelor in Informatics, 2020.

How did you start your career?

My career journey started with an internship in the IT/Analytics team at DXT Commodities in Lugano. During this internship, I was involved in tasks related to the maintenance and improvement of the DXT analytical platform. This experience laid the foundation for your strong enthusiasm for software development on HPC systems.

Why did you choose a career at Corintis?

I decided to join Corintis after my master's degree for the exciting and innovative nature of the project, the potential for substantial contributions to HPC and cloud computing, and the positive work environment and exposure to innovation offered by the company. I'm currently working on the next-generation HPC cloud-based platform for micro-chip cooling simulations.

What is your current role/duties?

In summary, my role as a Lead Full Stack Engineer involves overseeing the end-to-end development of the computational simulation platform, collaborating with various teams, implementing best practices, and ensuring the successful integration of new technologies to drive innovation within the company.

In your opinion, what are the qualities necessary for a successful career at Corintis ?

For a successful career at Corintis, particularly in the role of a Lead Full Stack Engineer, individuals should possess a robust set of qualities. This includes technical proficiency in full-stack development and expertise in computational science. Collaboration and communication skills are crucial for working effectively with cross-functional teams, while leadership abilities and mentorship qualities contribute to guiding and training team members. An innovative mindset, adaptability to emerging technologies, attention to detail, and a commitment to continuous learning are essential for contributing to groundbreaking projects, such as integrated silicon microfluidic cooling. Project management skills, a results-oriented approach, and a focus on ethical and secure practices are vital for delivering high-quality software products. Initiative, independence, and the ability to integrate customer feedback into the development process further contribute to success.

What positive aspects and qualities meant most to you during the study programme you attended?

My Master's in Computational Science journey was characterized by a blend of interdisciplinary learning, exposure to cutting-edge technologies, and international collaboration. The internship I was doing provided hands-on experiences, cultivating industry-relevant skills, while academic mentorship enriched my research experience. The program fostered an analytical mindset and proficiency in programming, leading to the establishment of a robust professional network. Enthusiasm for software development on HPC systems, coupled with a long-term vision, defines my commitment to the ever-evolving field of computational science.

What competences and skills acquired in your USI Study Program have been useful/are useful to your professional career?

The transition from a USI Bachelor's in Computer Science was fundamental in laying the groundwork for my journey towards building a cloud platform for Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. The Bachelor's program provided the foundational knowledge in computer science, programming languages, and algorithmic thinking, which became essential building blocks for more advanced concepts later on. As I progressed into the USI Master's program in Computational Science, the skills acquired during the Bachelor's formed a solid foundation. The Master's program allowed me to delve deeper into the intricacies of highperformance computing, parallel programming, and data analytics, all of which are crucial elements for developing a cloud platform tailored for CFD simulations.

What is your advice to USI students entering the job market?

Seek internships or practical experiences related to your field of study. Practical exposure not only enhances your skills but also provides a glimpse into real-world work environments; learn from each experience and use feedback to improve. Resilience is a valuable trait in the job market.