Duties

Diamond Light Source is a new synchrotron and a leading scientific facility of its type in the world. Located on the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus in South Oxfordshire, we host facilities supporting cutting edge research in all fields of science.

The long wavelength macromolecular crystallography beamline I23 will be a dedicated beamline for experimental phasing experiments utilizing multiple or single wavelength anomalous diffraction techniques. Uniquely, it will be optimized for operation in the wavelength range from 1.5 to 4 Å. To overcome the detrimental effects of increased absorption and larger diffraction angles both the end station and the detector will be optimized for this wavelength range. An X-ray tomography set up will be directly integrated into the design to determine the size and volume of the crystal, solvent and support to allow an analytical absorption correction of the diffraction data. It is currently in the design phase to go into user operation in 2013.

The successful candidate should have a Ph.D. in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, physics, or related fields, preferably with some synchrotron research experience and is expected to initiate a competitive programme of research in an area relevant to the beamline activities (Macromolecular crystallography or related areas of research). In addition the beamline scientist will assist the principal beamline scientist with the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of the beamline. Moreover, it is highly desirable that the successful candidate can contribute to at least one of the major areas of focus of the beamline project which can be broadly summarized as:

• Development of innovative sample handling and mounting techniques.
• Implementation of analytical absorption correction utilizing X-ray tomography.
• Optimization of data analysis software for cylindrical detector geometry.

The Rutherford Appleton site with its world leading facilities, including Diamond, ISIS and CLF offers a highly multidisciplinary environment. Together with the suite of five existing MX beamlines and the Membrane Protein Laboratory (MPL) embedded in Diamond, the adjacent Research Complex at Harwell due to open in early 2010 will house a range of life and physical science activities, including both CCP4 and OPPF-UK, the national facility for protein production and crystallization providing exceptional opportunities for synergies and collaborations. If you enjoy working as part of a highly motivated team, this position will offer you a great opportunity to contribute to this unique project and to undertake research at a world-class facility.

Duties

To support the Principal Beamline Scientist on the design, procurement, installation, commissioning and operation of the long wavelength macromolecular crystallography beamline I23.

Working in support of the Principal Beamline Scientist for I23 in the following areas:

• Installation, assembly, and maintenance of a range of equipment and systems on the beamline and support laboratories, including testing and commissioning;
• Procurement of beamline components;
• Liaise with the suppliers of beamline components;
• Local contact support to users by setting up and providing advice and guidance on the best approach to experiments, data analysis and research techniques;
• Carry out own research in an area relevant to the beamline and disseminate through publications and presentations;
• Assist in the development of a new item of equipment or system on the beamline, including testing and commissioning.

For appointment at the higher level:

•  Procurement of significant beamline components;
• Develop own research/technical expertise to become internationally recognised through publications and presentations for own work in an area relevant to beamline;
• Lead the design, procurement, testing, installation and commissioning of a particular significant development of the beamline or instrumentation which would enhance or improve its capability;
• Enhance the operation of the facility by collaboration and dissemination of specialist knowledge with the other Diamond staff and users.

Qualifications and Experience: Essential

• Appropriate first degree or equivalent qualification;
• Second degree in appropriate subject;
• Relevant synchrotron research experience;
• Ability and initiative to get to the heart of the problem and take it effectively through to completion;
• Good interpersonal, communication and presentational skills;
• Ability to interact effectively with staff at all levels;
• Self motivated;
• Ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team;
• Must be available to travel occasionally in UK and overseas including overnight absences.

Qualifications and Experience: Desirable

• Experience or knowledge of synchrotrons; (Essential for appointment at the higher level); 
• Knowledge of X-ray diffraction techniques;(Essential for appointment at the higher level);
• Project management experience; (Essential for appointment at the higher level);
• A proven track record of macromolecular structure determination.(Essential for appointment at the higher level);     
• Knowledge of X-ray tomography;
• Experience of beamline instrumentation and design;
• Experience of Windows/Unix/Linux;
• Programming experience;
• Experience in handling macromolecular crystals.  

Further Information

For further information and an informal discussion, please contact Dr Armin Wagner on 01235 778560 or Armin.wagner@diamond.ac.uk 

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