Senior / Data Analysis Scientist – Soft Condensed Matter Group

Diamond Light Source invites applications for a Senior / Data Analysis Scientist to join the Soft Condensed Matter (SCM) group, focusing on machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) for SCM beamlines and instruments.

About Diamond Light Source

Diamond Light Source is the UK’s national synchrotron science facility located on the Harwell Science & Innovation Campus in Oxfordshire. The facility is undergoing a major upgrade (Diamond‑II) that will expand its beamlines, optics, detectors, sample environments and computing capabilities.

Role Overview

• Implement ML/AI solutions for beam and optics optimisation, digital/twin modelling of instruments, and image/signal denoising with multispectral analysis.
• Provide software support to beamline scientists and end users.
• Develop and maintain ML/AI software in the context of the Diamond‑II upgrade, collaborating with the eBIC and other scientific computing teams.
• Participate in wider scientific software projects, including real‑time optimisation, data visualisation, and automated analysis workflows.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy ML/AI software for SCM beamlines.
• Work with large and complex code bases, ensuring software quality and maintainability.
• Support end users through training and documentation.
• Contribute to optimisation of experiment design and data acquisition.

Qualifications

• Degree in a STEM subject; post‑doctoral or equivalent qualification for senior level.
• Experience in the full software development lifecycle using a modern high‑level language.
• Proficiency in Python, C++ and/or Java; familiarity with MATLAB is a plus.
• Demonstrated experience with ML and/or AI applications in scientific equipment and/or image/signal analysis.
• Knowledge of controlling and monitoring scientific equipment is an asset.
• Strong communication, interpersonal and analytical skills.
• Prior experience with synchrotron radiation or related imaging, optics control, optimisation algorithms, or hyperspectral image analysis is preferred.

Benefits

Diamond offers a comprehensive benefits package, including 26 days annual leave plus Christmas closure, public holidays, 2 voluntary days per year and flexible working hours. Benefits also include a defined benefit pension scheme, on‑site facilities (nursery, cafés, restaurant, sports and leisure) and a relocation allowance where applicable.

Standard hybrid working arrangement with a minimum of 3 days on site per week.

Application

Use the online application process to apply and explain why you are suitable for the role. Indicate whether you wish to be considered at Data Analysis Scientist or Senior Data Analysis Scientist level.

Visa sponsorship is available at the Senior Data Scientist level; the role does not meet sponsorship criteria for the Data Scientist level except for new entrants. For more details see the UK Government Skilled Worker visa overview.

The closing date for applications is 16 November. Early applications are encouraged.