About Us
The software team plays a vital role in supporting the world-class science conducted at Diamond. Our innovative software solutions power various aspects of Diamond’s operations, ranging from the control of synchrotron and beamline hardware to the planning, execution, and monitoring of experiments. We also develop tools for data archiving, retrieval, processing, and visualization, support applications for beamtime, and enable the capture of remote experiment plans and sample information. Working collaboratively with scientists, our software engineers deliver cutting-edge and reliable systems that ensure Diamond remains at the forefront of scientific research.
About the Data Acquisition Group
The Data Acquisition (DAQ) group is responsible for creating and maintaining software that interfaces with and controls the hardware essential for conducting and monitoring experiments. In addition, the team provides tools that facilitate data reduction and analysis. By collaborating with scientists and engineers specializing in controls, data analysis, and information management, the DAQ group continuously enhances software solutions for acquiring and analyzing scientific data efficiently.
The current platform developed by the DAQ group is known as GDA (Generic Data Acquisition), a client-server application written in Java using the Eclipse RCP framework. As part of the Diamond-II Synchrotron upgrade, the DAQ software is undergoing modernization to transition into a service-based architecture. This next-generation platform, known as Athena, will enable advanced experimental capabilities for selected beamlines. Over the coming years, existing beamline software will be migrated from GDA to Athena to realize its full potential.
About the Role
We are now seeking a Senior Software Engineer in the DAQ group to lead a team supporting the Soft Condensed Matter (SCM) and Crystallography (X) Science Groups. These groups conduct interdisciplinary research, spanning life sciences to physical sciences, addressing questions about biological processes, advanced materials, and innovative formulations and processing strategies.
As the team leader, you will oversee both present operations using the mature GDA software package on approximately 35 beamlines as well as drive the development of Athena, Diamond’s new cutting-edge data acquisition software platform. Although Diamond is transitioning from GDA to Athena, maintaining GDA temporarily is crucial to sustain current data collection operations.
Athena represents a modernized, state-of-the-art experiment orchestration and control platform being developed for the Diamond-II upgrade. Built using advanced technologies and contemporary software development practices, Athena is designed to be more adaptable, maintainable, and scalable than GDA. The platform is built upon Bluesky and Ophyd-Async, Python libraries widely utilized for experiment control and data acquisition at leading facilities globally.
In this role, you will be responsible for migrating experimental functionalities from GDA to Athena, while developing new experimental capabilities for beamlines. You will actively collaborate with beamline scientists and DAQ Core team members to implement features and enhance Athena’s services. Furthermore, you will help refine Athena’s generic capabilities while working on international collaborations, exchanging best practices, and contributing to initiatives involving other research facilities and synchrotrons.
About You
We are seeking candidates with a first degree in a STEM subject, ideally complemented by a relevant MSc or PhD. You will need a demonstrated track record in the full Software Development Lifecycle, proficiency in modern high-level programming languages, and a solid understanding of software design principles and usability.
Preference will be given to candidates with experience in developing software to control and monitor scientific or industrial equipment, as well as those familiar with synchrotron or neutron central facility experiments. Experience working with large-scale, complex codebases is highly desirable, along with skills in Python, HDF5 file format, Typescript, UI development, Java, Eclipse RCP platform, REST, Kubernetes, and asynchronous computing.
Strong communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills will be essential, as will a genuine interest in or experience with scientific research and technology development.
Benefits
Diamond offers an excellent benefits package designed to promote a healthy work/life balance. Benefits include:
- 26 days of annual leave, plus Christmas closure and public holidays
- Two annual volunteering days
- Flexible working hours
- A defined benefit pension scheme
- Access to on-site amenities, such as a nursery, cafes, restaurant, and sports and leisure facilities
- Relocation allowance (where applicable)
As a bonus, this role includes a non-pensionable allowance of £3,000 per annum. Hybrid working is standard, with a minimum of three days per week on-site.
To Apply
Submit your application through the online portal, clearly outlining your suitability for the role.
The application deadline is 9th November 2025. Early applications are encouraged, as interviews may be conducted before the closing date