Bassam Helal

Technical Skills


Advanced proficiency with Java and Kotlin for the JVM platform

Advanced proficiency with C for Systems Programming (including Embedded Systems)

Advanced proficiency using GNU/Linux

Advanced proficiency with TypeScript for Node.js and React

Advanced proficiency in software-testing strategies and methodologies

Intermediate proficiency with C++ on GNU/Linux

Basic proficiency with x86 Assembly

Basic proficiency with Rust

Basic proficiency with Python

Technical Experience


Extensive experience using libffi for Java to native (C/C++) interoperability

Extensive experience building library APIs

Extensive experience with Full-Stack web development using Node.js and TypeScript

Extensive experience with command line programs on GNU/Linux

Extensive experience developing and maintaining software test-suites

Moderate experience developing high performance software (Java and C)

Moderate experience in software performance optimization (Java and C)

Modest experience with Embedded Linux (Raspberry Pi) development using C++

Soft Skills


Strong drive to build maintainable, well-tested, performant software

Deep passion for learning new concepts and ideas (not just in software)

Strong desire to face and solve novel problems

Strong proficiency in reading and writing technical documentation

Strong presentation skills for abstracting complex topics

Native fluency in English and Arabic, learner proficiency in Literary Persian

Employment & Education


Software Engineer at Disrupt Vidiyo (2020-Present): Full-Stack web developer

MSc. Advanced Software Technology from Swansea University (2019-2020): Merit, Distinction grade Dissertation

BSc. Software Engineering from Swansea University (2016-2019): First Class

Interests


My prime technical interest is in low level programming for resource constrained and/or high performance environments. I am currently learning C++ for systems programming on Embedded Linux (Raspberry Pi Zero).

I am a passionate advocate for Free (as in Freedom) software, I use GNU/Linux as my daily operating system.

I enjoy studying and learning literary languages, I have achieved a high level of competency with both Classical Persian and Classical Arabic, and a modest level with Ottoman Turkish.

I enjoy exploring and listening to a wide range of music from across the world, I particulary enjoy Classical Ottoman Music, I play the keyboard and Qanun.