(Senior) Beamline scientist

About Us

Diamond Light Source is the UK’s national synchrotron; a huge scientific facility designed to produce very intense beams of X-rays, infrared and ultraviolet light. Our scientists use the light to study a vast range of subject matter, from new medicines and treatments for disease to innovative engineering and cutting-edge technology. 

Diamond is one of the most advanced scientific facilities in the world, and its pioneering capabilities and talented staff are helping to keep the UK at the forefront of scientific research.  

About the Role

We now have an opportunity for a scientist to join our team as a Beamline / Senior Beamline Scientist on a permanent basis. As a Beamline Scientist, you will collaborate with world leaders to facilitate cutting-edge science across a wide range of disciplines. 

The I08 Scanning X-ray microscopy beamline in Diamond’s Imaging Group covers the soft and tender X-ray photon energy range and is therefore optimised for the analysis of organic and inorganic matter on nanoscopic and microscopic scales. The beamline attracts experimenters from a broad range of scientific areas including biogeochemistry, earth and environmental science, biology, planetary science, materials science and energy research. The beamline consists of two end-stations, one for conventional scanning X-ray microscopy and for ptychography, which are optimised for X-ray imaging modes as NEXAFS/ XANES, micro-XRF spectro-microscopy and ptychography. 

Our aim is to be a world leading facility for soft X-ray microscopy. To achieve these aims, the post-holder will actively pursue/develop their own scientific research and we will support fully funded professional training to aid career progression and personal development.  

The successful candidate will have the chance to engage with wider Imaging Group activities in correlative multi-technique science, in-situ science and computational imaging such as tomography and ptychography. They will also have access to state-of-the-art laboratories at Diamond and across RAL and opportunities and collaborate with other facilities to strengthen correlative research. The successful candidate will also have access to Diamond's Ph.D. studentship funding programme and support for external grant funding through national and international funding agencies to take full advantage of the exciting international research environment. 

Your responsibilities will include:

• Developing a leading research program.
• Collaborating on beamline upgrades and development projects.
• Work closely with other scientists and support groups within Diamond to ensure smooth operation of the beamline providing beamtime to the scientific user community.
• Managing the development, procurement, testing, installation, and maintenance of bespoke scientific equipment and software to perform novel experiments.
• Providing beamline operational support and engaging with users on how to deliver successful experiments and results.
• Engaging actively with new and existing user communities who will benefit from I08 through talks, outreach and participation in conferences and workshops.
• Actively participate in beamline reviews including preparation of documentation, contributing to identify areas for improvement.
• Advise on the development of data acquisition, visualization and analysis software and be involved in commissioning of new software. 

Successful applicants will be considered at either Beamline Scientist or Senior Beamline Scientist level, depending on the strength of your skills, experience and qualifications. 

About You

The successful candidate will have an undergraduate degree in physics, materials science, chemistry, or engineering, as well as Ph.D. that is multidisciplinary in nature. 

You will also require the following: 

• Knowledge and experience in designing and performing experiments at synchrotrons or similar facilities.
• Experience in beamline X-ray optics and X-ray instrumentation, including X-ray detectors.
• Be proficient in the post-processing and analysis of X-ray imaging and Spectro microscopy data.
• Understanding in supporting Scientists in the conduct of research in a synchrotron or equivalent facility.
• You will need a demonstrable track record in the use of Python which would be an asset.
• Demonstrated ability to develop an independent research programme and successful scientific publication record. 

Benefits

Diamond offers an exceptional benefits package to support staff in achieving a positive work/life balance. This includes 26 days annual leave plus Christmas closure, public holidays, 2 annual volunteering days and flexible working hours. We also offer an excellent defined benefit pension scheme. Staff also have access to a range of amenities on site including a nursery, cafes, a restaurant and sports and leisure facilities. A relocation allowance may also be available where applicable. 

To Apply

Please use the online application process to apply and tell us why you believe you are suitable for this role. 

The initial closing date for applications is 19th January 2025, however applications will be reviewed and interviewed on an ongoing basis until this vacancy is filled.