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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 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 fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture.
- Qualifications: A degree in Engineering or Science, with experience in software development and project management.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds, especially women and disabled candidates.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 89000 £ per year.
Business Area:Science
Full Time Salary:£75,714 to £89,075 per annum (Discretionary range to £97,092)
Post Type:Full time / Permanent
Provisional Interview Dates:12th August, to be held at Diamond Light Source, Harwell
Closing Date:27/07/2025
Ref No
11567
Documents
- Head of Data Acquisition Group – Job Description.docx
(Word , 55.15kb) - Head of Data Acquisition Group – Person Specification.docx
(Word , 39.27kb)
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.
As the Head of the Data Acquisition Group, you’ll play a vital role in our success. 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 so supporting 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 orientated languages such as Java, C++ and Python
- Modern software architectures and (Service-oriented architecture and microservices) and their realisation.
- Interacting with scientist 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.
We take an active approach to ensuring equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our activities at Diamond, with a dedicated commitment to ensuring we provide a fulfilling and enjoyable place to work, where all staff feel valued and recognised for their individual contribution.
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
Other information
Diamond is open to different ways of working and we are committed to supporting our employees to have more flexibility and autonomy over where, when and how long they work.
Where relevant, and possible for the role, we will consider flexible working arrangements, secondment and job share opportunities.
Diamond attracts talented individuals from around the world and currently employ 56 different nationalities.Reflecting trends in our sector we employ more men than women. Therefore, we particularly welcome applications from suitably qualified women.
If you are disabled and would like to be considered under theDisability Confident Scheme , please let us know via the online application process.
Diamond are members of Working Families (the UK’s work-life balance organisation) and we have also achieved the Disability Confident Level Two award.
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Head of Data Acquisition Group Diamond Light Source employer: Lightsources.org
Contact Detail:
Lightsources.org Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Data Acquisition Group Diamond Light Source
✨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 in conversations about their challenges and solutions can provide valuable insights that you can bring to your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight specific examples where you motivated your team to achieve project goals, as this role requires strong people management skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Diamond Light Source's current projects and initiatives, particularly the Diamond-II upgrade. Understanding their strategic direction will allow you to tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Data Acquisition Group Diamond Light Source
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description and person specification for the Head of Data Acquisition Group. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in data acquisition, software development, and team leadership. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage projects and collaborate with scientists.
Showcase Your Skills: Clearly outline your technical skills, particularly in object-oriented programming languages like Java, C++, and Python. Mention any experience with modern software architectures and project management techniques that align with the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only explains why you are suitable for the role but also reflects your passion for scientific research and innovation. Make sure to address how you can contribute to the Diamond Light Source's mission and goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lightsources.org
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the job description and the key responsibilities of the Head of Data Acquisition Group. Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies and methodologies mentioned, such as software project management techniques and object-oriented programming languages.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a candidate for a leadership position, be prepared to discuss your experience in managing teams and projects. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully motivated and developed a team, particularly in a scientific or technical environment.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions related to data acquisition, software architecture, and integration. Brush up on your knowledge of modern software architectures, AI/ML techniques, and how they can be applied in a scientific context. Be ready to discuss your past experiences with these technologies.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration and Communication Skills
Since the role involves working closely with other teams, it's crucial to demonstrate your interpersonal skills. Prepare examples of how you've effectively collaborated with different stakeholders, gathered requirements, and managed expectations in previous roles.
