about us
The Diamond Light Source is one of the most advanced scientific facilities in the world. We’re home to the UK’s Synchrotron Light Source – a giant microscope that produces light rays 10 billion times brighter than the Sun. By examining the structure and composition of matter, our work leads to innovation in everything from vaccines to nanotechnology.

About the role
XChem’s world-first facility at Diamond offers routine, rapid crystal-based part screening for academia and industry. The platform supports all steps from crystal soaking and harvesting to data collection and analysis. It is part of the MX I04-1 beamline and is shared with the XChem Industrial Group; She has been at the forefront of open drug discovery efforts including the COVID Moonshot and the ASAP AViDD Center.

We are now hiring a senior beamline scientist to manage, operate, and develop the facility and the academic user program. The job holder will provide leadership to a support team of experienced staff for daily operations and liaise closely with the XChem team of the Industrial Liaison Office. The role will also work closely with the Diamond-II K04 project, which will achieve a 10-fold increase in XChem throughput by the end of the decade; And with the OpenBind Initiative, which is driving data generation for a new generation of AI in structural biology.

About you
You will have a suitable first degree and a PhD or significant equivalent experience. You will also have experience in the following areas:

• Complex management
• Molecular crystallography
• Handling and soaking crystal
• Inspect parts (any)
• Follow the widget
• Windows/Linux/Unix
• Programming, especially Python and Java
• User support in an international user facility

benefits
Diamond offers an exceptional benefits package to support employees in achieving a positive work-life balance. This includes 26 days annual leave plus Christmas and bank holiday closures, two annual volunteer days and flexible working hours. We also offer an excellent defined benefit pension scheme. Staff also have access to a range of on-site amenities including a nursery, cafes, restaurant and sports and leisure facilities. A transportation allowance may also be available where applicable.

As standard, this role requires full on-site working arrangements.

To apply
Please use the online application process (available at Diamond light source website, accessible via the ‘Apply’ button) to apply and tell us why you think you’d be a good fit for this role.

Application deadline is October 19, 2025; However, we encourage early applications as some candidates may be interviewed before this date.