Many labs do need programmers, and some of them are even starting to realize it (I've seen some profs who thought a normal biology student could start programming on complex projects with just a bit of training).
As many had said, language will vary with lab and domain - python is a favorite, with some labs holding out to matlab, etc.
The hardest thing to do is find the right lab. You're going to have a better chance to get hired by one of the larger/better funded labs (they have more money for positions that are pure science). A normal job website might not have all of these sorts of postings, check with your local academic departments.
Programming in a lab is nice in a lot of ways: more flexibility, usually a lot of control over your projects, good atmosphere (mostly). However a few caveats: the pay isn't nearly as good in industry, and you need to work independently - most labs don't have many (if any) programmers so when you get stuck you're on your own.
Our lab (neuroscience) is actually looking for programmers right now (python required, and we're just outside Munich) - lots of active projects - email if interested.
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Many labs do need programmers, and some of them are even starting to realize it (I've seen some profs who thought a normal biology student could start programming on complex projects with just a bit of training). As many had said, language will vary with lab and domain - python is a favorite, with some labs holding out to matlab, etc. The hardest thing to do is find the right lab. You're going to have a better chance to get hired by one of the larger/better funded labs (they have more money for positions that are pure science). A normal job website might not have all of these sorts of postings, check with your local academic departments. Programming in a lab is nice in a lot of ways: more flexibility, usually a lot of control over your projects, good atmosphere (mostly). However a few caveats: the pay isn't nearly as good in industry, and you need to work independently - most labs don't have many (if any) programmers so when you get stuck you're on your own. Our lab (neuroscience) is actually looking for programmers right now (python required, and we're just outside Munich) - lots of active projects - email if interested.