Post-Doctoral Research Associate – Ultra Small Angle X-Ray Scattering

About Us

Diamond Light Source is the UK’s national synchrotron science facility. By accelerating electrons to near light-speed, Diamond generates brilliant beams of light from infra-red to X-rays which are used for academic and industry research and development across a range of scientific disciplines including structural biology, physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, earth and environmental sciences.

About the Role

Diamond runs a suite of world class small angle scattering instruments, with both synchrotron and offline sources, covering the whole gamut of Life and Physical Sciences.

Beamline I22 enables structural studies with length scales ranging from the atomic to several hundred nanometres. Increasingly we are finding scientific problems that require even longer length scales, up to several microns. To cover this, we have supplemented the existing setup at I22 with a Bonse-Hart ultra-small angle x-ray scattering instrument.

We now have an opportunity for a Post-Doctoral Research Associate to assist in the optimisation and scientific exploitation of the new instrument. You will focus on the development of fast scanning technologies to allow for the most efficient use of instrument time. There will be opportunities to develop your own research program in the area of ultra-small angle X-ray scattering both independently, and in collaboration with the I22 user community.

This position represents an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic person to play a key role in expanding the capabilities of the SAXS group at Diamond.

About You

You will have an appropriate Science Degree and PhD, along with proven experience and research interest in relevant areas:

• Nano structural analysis of systems with length scales ranging up to 6 microns
• Instrument development and deployment
• Scientific programming in support of data collection/processing/analysis.

You will be able to communicate and interact well with both staff and collaborators and demonstrate good presentation skills. 

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.

As standard this role requires a fully onsite working arrangement

To Apply

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

The closing date for applications is 16th November 2025 with interviews scheduled for the week of 24th November 2026.

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