Oliver Thurley
Full-stack Software Developer • JavaScript •
Python • React • Node.js
I am changing career following a number of years working as an
academic lecturer in music technology.
I am passionate about programming and constantly expanding my
skills through applied projects. I combine a creative approach with
strong analytical thinking, and am experienced in research,
communication, and problem-solving. I am a fast learner and thrive
when collaborating to design and build innovative solutions.
Technical Skills
- Languages: JavaScript, TypeScript, Python,
HTML, CSS, Lua;
- Frameworks & Libraries: React, Node.js,
Express, p5.js;
- Databases & APIs: PostgreSQL, RESTful APIs,
OpenAPI/Swagger;
- Tools: GitHub, npm, neovim, VS Code, Markdown,
LaTeX, AI, yaml, toml;
- Testing & Deployment: , GitHub Actions,
Docker, Unit Testing (mocha, jest), Render, Supabase;
- Other Skills: Technical writing, research,
agile working, mentoring, public speaking and teaching.
I have contributed to the open-source project p5.js, a creative-coding JavaScript
library by the Processing
Foundation.
Professional Experience
- Lectures and workshops on JavaScript, p5.js, and Max/MSP.
- Designed and led “Computational Art” module, introducing
non-coders to JavaScript, creating algorithmic art, music, and
poetry as well as other digital arts.
- Led design of 6 new modules and managed 12 other modules
(2019–present).
- Programme leader of BSc Music, Multimedia and Electronics
programme, co-taught with School of Electronics and Electrical
Engineering.
- Worked as part of a team to develop a new Music Technology
programme, which recruited >40% of our School’s undergraduate
intake in 2024-25.
- Supervised over 20 undergraduate software-based student
projects, including procedural systems, interactive installations,
multi-channel audio diffusion systems, and music education
apps.
- Each academic year I produce new technical documentation and
teaching materials, including a successful YouTube-partnered channel
teaching the programming language, Max/MSP.
- Supervisor and examiner to PhD students.
- My tutored students’ average grade is a high 2:1. (2023–25)
Teaching
Fellow, University of Leeds (2016 – 2019)
- Technical teaching across BA, MA Music Technology and BSc
Electronic Engineering programmes.
- Supported student development with structured mentoring, project
feedback, tutorials and supervision.
Personal Projects
Grant Scribe (React,
TypeScript, Express, OpenAI API)
A project to apply skills in React, Typescript, CI/CD, and the
OpenAI API. This SPA generates tailored research proposals from user
input. Built with React, Node / Express backend, and RESTful API
calls. Deployed via Render. Demonstrates component-based
architecture, async data fetching, error handling.
Developed skills in npm packaging by creating and publishing a
CLI module that generates animated ASCII clouds on the user’s
terminal using simplex noise. Demonstrates proficiency in package
publishing, creative application of noise algorithms.
Interactive generative drawings using p5.js to design algorithmic
visuals, and controlling a 3D-printed pen plotter. Applied skills in
creative coding, SVG processing, hardware integration, and
microcontroller programming.
Developed skills creating a browser-based synthesizer for
demonstrating harmonic series relationships through real-time audio
generation and UI controls. Used in educational settings for
interactive music teaching.
Tempest (ZMK Firmware,
Hardware)
Designed and built a wireless 36-key split ergonomic keyboard
running custom ZMK config (Zephyr). Learned about PCB layout,
embedded firmware, and configuration.
Education
- PhD - Music - Fully funded by AHRC. Awarded
without corrections and Board of Examiners Prize. University of
Leeds, 2012–2016
- MA - Computer Music & Music Technology
(Distinction) - University of Leeds, 2010–2011
- BA(Hons) - Music Production (First Class) -
Leeds College of Music, 2007–2010
Certifications & Awards
Please get in touch via o.thrly@gmail.com and find me on
GitHub or LinkedIn.