Optics Scientist - Mirror Figuring

Optics Scientist - Mirror Figuring

Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Oxfordshire

£33,963 to £39,955 per annum

Full time / Flexible hours considered.

Reference: 11011

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.

At Diamond we are currently planning a major upgrade of the facility, known as Diamond-II. Diamond-II will combine a new machine and new beamlines with a comprehensive series of upgrades to optics, detectors, sample environments, sample delivery capabilities and computing, which will ultimately generate an even more brilliant light source at a higher energy.

About the Role

We now have an opportunity for an Optics Scientist to join our well-established Optics and Metrology Group and to work on diverse areas of X-ray optics.

The Optics and Metrology Group provides expert support in the design, development, testing, and optimisation of X-ray optics for Diamond’s beamlines. This position will work on the state-of-the art ion beam figuring (IBF) system recently setup in the Optics and Metrology group of Diamond. The IBF system is used to improve the surface quality of X-ray mirrors.

You will focus on the development of instrumentation and techniques for the IBF system, with the ultimate aim of producing high-quality X-ray mirrors.

Further responsibilities will include:

Operating and optimising the IBF system to improve the surface quality of X-ray optics to be used on Diamond’s beamlines.
Taking the initiative in developing hardware upgrades, process software and analysis techniques to improve the performance of the IBF system.
Performing metrology measurements in the optics metrology laboratory of Diamond and use this data as input to guide the IBF process.
Managing the day-to-day operation of the IBF laboratory, ensuring safe working environment.
Managing the development, procurement, testing, installation and maintenance of scientific equipment and associated software to perform novel experiments in the IBF laboratory.
Providing inputs to the safety aspects of the optics laboratory instruments (including risk and COSHH assessments) where necessary.
Defining and implementing protocols for handling, installation, cleaning, and testing X-ray optics.

About You

You will have an appropriate Science Degree and PhD along with proven relevant experience.

You will demonstrate knowledge / experience in the following areas:

Python, C++, Matlab or a similar platform.
A related field such as X-ray metrology or X-ray optics.
Safe handling of delicate optics and intricate instruments.
Use of non-contact metrology of optics.

It will be beneficial to also have knowledge/expertise in the following areas:

Vacuum processes and processing.
Mirror polishing approaches (e.g. IBF, MRF, SPDT).
You will also demonstrate technical aptitude to expertly operate computer-controlled instruments and excellent IT and data analysis skills.

You will also have demonstrated ability to develop an independent research program and successful scientific publication record.

Benefits

Diamond offers an exceptional benefits package to support staff in achieving a positive work/life balance. This includes 25 days annual leave plus 13 days of statutory and company holidays and 2 annual volunteering days, along with flexible working hours and an excellent 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 March 2023, however, we encourage early applications as some candidates may be interviewed before this date.