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- Tasks: Lead a team in developing data acquisition services for cutting-edge scientific research.
- Company: Join Diamond Light Source, the UK's leading synchrotron science facility driving innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days annual leave, flexible hours, and access to on-site amenities like cafes and sports facilities.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of scientific advancement while working in a collaborative and innovative environment.
- Qualifications: A degree in Engineering or Science, with experience in scientific software and team management.
- Other info: Relocation allowance available; apply by 27th July 2025 for a chance to join our mission.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Head of Data Acquisition Group role at Diamond Light Source. This range is provided by Diamond Light Source. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
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 undertaking 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. To facilitate this, the suite of scientific software is being developed to move it to a service-based architecture. In doing so, it will provide greater end-to-end integration of the software and facilitate greater use of AI/ML techniques and improved automation of experiments.
About The Role
We now have an excellent new opportunity for a Head of our Data Acquisition Group to provide Diamond-wide strategic leadership in defining, planning, and implementing data acquisition services for the facility.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Leadership & Direction: Lead a talented team in developing and maintaining software and experiment orchestration for our photon science beamlines.
- Collaboration: Work closely with other software and computing teams to ensure seamless integration and service delivery.
- Technical Advancement: Contribute to the development of the new software architecture and support our research initiatives.
About You
You will be a talented data acquisition specialist with a first degree in Engineering or Science and ideally a relevant PhD. You will be an experienced and skilled people manager, ideally from a scientific environment, with the ability to motivate and develop a team.
You Will Demonstrate Experience Of:
- Experimental science
- Development of scientific software
- Modern software project management techniques and tools
- Object-oriented languages such as Java, C++ and Python
- Modern software architectures (Service-oriented architecture and microservices) and their realisation.
- Interacting with scientists to gather software requirements and managing their delivery.
You Will Also Display:
- A collaborative and forward-thinking mindset.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills, with an ability to interact, influence and negotiate at the highest level.
- The ability to effectively undertake project planning and management.
- The ability to plan and manage operational and capital programme budgets over £1m.
Benefits
Diamond offers an exceptional benefits package to support staff in achieving a positive work/life balance. This includes 26 days annual leave plus Christmas closure, public holidays, 2 annual volunteering days and flexible working hours. We also offer an excellent defined benefit 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 closing date for applications is 27th July 2025 with interviews scheduled for 12th August, to be held at Diamond Light Source, Harwell.
Head of Data Acquisition Group employer: Diamond Light Source
Contact Detail:
Diamond Light Source Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Data Acquisition Group
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in data acquisition technologies and software architectures. Being well-versed in service-oriented architecture and microservices will give you a competitive edge during discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the scientific software community, especially those who have experience in synchrotron facilities. Engaging with them can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals that enhance your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in previous roles. Highlighting your ability to motivate and develop talent will resonate well with the expectations for this position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Diamond Light Source's current projects and initiatives, particularly the Diamond-II upgrade. Demonstrating your knowledge about their work and how you can contribute will show your genuine interest in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Data Acquisition Group
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in data acquisition, software development, and team leadership. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in managing projects and collaborating with scientific teams.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the role and the organisation. Discuss how your background in engineering or science, along with your management experience, aligns with the responsibilities of the Head of Data Acquisition Group.
Showcase Technical Skills: Clearly outline your proficiency in object-oriented programming languages like Java, C++, and Python. Mention any experience you have with modern software architectures and project management techniques that are relevant to the role.
Highlight Leadership Experience: Emphasise your experience in leading teams and motivating staff. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed projects and budgets, particularly in a scientific or technical environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Diamond Light Source
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As the Head of Data Acquisition Group, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and motivate a team. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully led a project or team, highlighting your leadership style and how you foster collaboration.
✨Understand the Technical Requirements
Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies and methodologies mentioned in the job description, such as object-oriented programming languages and modern software architectures. Be ready to discuss how your technical background aligns with these requirements and how you can contribute to the development of the new software architecture.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Collaboration is key in this role. Think of instances where you've worked closely with other teams or departments to achieve a common goal. Be prepared to discuss how you approach collaboration and ensure seamless integration of services.
✨Demonstrate Your Project Management Experience
Since you'll be managing significant budgets and projects, come equipped with examples of your project management experience. Discuss the tools and techniques you’ve used, how you handle project planning, and any challenges you've overcome in managing large-scale projects.
