PDRA - Small Molecule Single Crystal Diffraction

PDRA - Small Molecule Single Crystal Diffraction

£37,087 to £40,754 per annum, dependent upon skills and experience

Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Oxfordshire – based onsite.

3 Years Fixed Term

Reference: 11359


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

We now have an opportunity for a Post Doctoral Research Associate to join our team on Beamline I19 at Diamond, a facility tailored for small-molecule single-crystal diffraction. Our beamline utilizes an intense X-ray beam (5-30 keV) to delve into the intricate structural properties of various materials. You will engage in cutting-edge research on this advanced beamline, which is specifically engineered for examining the crystal structures of samples with low scattering intensity. These may arise due to their size, complexity, or to track structural changes induced by external influence.

You will participate in individual or collaborative research activities on the beamline, and elsewhere, with the specific remit of developing a research theme involving advanced crystallography techniques. The research should complement the beamline objective such as; high throughput methods such as serial crystallography, autonomous collections, solid-state transformation (light, gas, electric field, pressure) or real-time monitoring of solid-state reactions using time-resolved methods. Particularly outstanding candidates with other research interests may be considered.

You will actively contribute to beamline commissioning and upgrade initiatives, perpetually pushing the boundaries of crystallographic experimentation and enabling world-leading research. You will occasionally provide user support providing expertise in their area of research. You must be prepared to work flexibly and should be available to carry out occasional out-of-hours duties.

About You

You will need to hold an appropriate PhD degree or equivalent qualification, coupled with significant expertise in relevant scientific fields such as chemistry, physics, material science, and earth sciences. Proficiency in synchrotron X-ray single-crystal diffraction principles is essential, along with hands-on experience in instrumentation, methodology, structure solution, and refinement. A demonstrated track record in synchrotron radiation-based research, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, is also required.

Benefits

Diamond offers an exceptional benefits package to support staff in achieving a positive work/life balance. This includes 26 days annual leave plus 13 days of statutory and company holidays, 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.

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 Sunday 16th June, however applications will be reviewed and interviewed on an ongoing basis until this vacancy is filled.