At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the operation and development of a cutting-edge microfocus beamline for structural biology research.
- Company: Join Diamond Light Source, the UK's leading synchrotron facility in a vibrant scientific community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for research, and collaboration with top scientists.
- Other info: Be part of a multi-disciplinary team driving innovation in macromolecular crystallography.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in structural biology and advance your career in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field, leadership experience, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 70000 £ per year.
Jobs in Structural Biology and Related Fields at Diamond Light Source Ltd, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus in South Oxfordshire, United Kingdom.
Diamond Light Source is the UK's national 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 research facilities supporting cutting edge research in all fields of science.
I24 is a dedicated tuneable microfocus crystallography beamline that forms part of the suite of beamlines within the macromolecular crystallography village at Diamond where currently 5 beamlines are in operation for the Diamond user community. I24 was the first dedicated tuneable variable microfocus beamline to be delivered to the global MX user community. It has been designed with an endstation with considerable flexibility to allow high-throughput characterisation of microcrystals for data collection and structure solution. The beamline provides for a range of experiments and techniques to be catered for including in situ diffraction, in-line spectroscopy, high acquisition rate room temperature data collection and provision of a variable humidity controlled environment at the sample position.
The Principal Beamline Scientist will take overall responsibility for the operation, maintenance and development of I24 and assist in supporting academic and industrial users who visit the beamline. The successful candidate will be expected to develop an internationally competitive research programme in structural biology that complements the research and development activities within the MX village.
Duties:
- To provide the lead in the management of the operation, maintenance and development of the microfocus beamline I24 and work closely with other scientists within the MX group and the relevant support groups within Diamond.
- Pursue an internationally competitive research programme to complement the capabilities of the Diamond MX village beamlines.
- Take a leading responsibility for the I24 beamline in the following areas:
- Continued commissioning and optimisation of the beamline;
- Operation of the beamline user programme plus assist in coordinating access to the beamline alongside the other MX beamlines;
- Coordination of upgrade and development of instrumentation and software on the beamline;
- Carry out an independent and internationally competitive research programme in an area relevant to the MX beamlines at Diamond.
- Ensure that the beamline and associated facilities continue to meet the scientific requirements as agreed with the user community;
- Budget management;
- Take responsibility for monitoring and reporting of the beamline's progress, providing regular updates to the Divisional Director and other internal and external stakeholders.
- Establish and manage the I24 beamline team.
Qualifications and Experience:
Essential:
- Appropriate PhD degree or equivalent qualification or experience;
- Demonstrated experience in the management of staff;
- Experience with Windows/Linux/Unix;
- 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;
- Ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team;
- Strong leadership ability to ensure the above;
- Ability to effectively manage a team;
- Ability to produce effective management project briefings to directors and senior colleagues;
- Establishing budgets and recruitment forecasts;
- Self-motivated, interested in keeping pace with synchrotron crystallographic developments;
- Overall experience of techniques and methods relevant to macromolecular microcrystallography;
- Demonstrated track record in structural biology.
Desirable:
- Python and/or Java programming;
- Project management;
- Experience of management techniques for operation of a synchrotron beamline;
- Experience of leading multi-disciplinary teams.
Principal Beamline Scientist - Macromolecular Crystallography Beamline I24 in London employer: Instruct-ERIC
Diamond Light Source Ltd is an exceptional employer located at the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in structural biology. Employees benefit from access to cutting-edge research facilities, opportunities for professional growth through internationally competitive research programmes, and a supportive environment that encourages teamwork and development. With a commitment to scientific excellence and community engagement, Diamond provides a unique platform for scientists to thrive and make meaningful contributions to the field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Beamline Scientist - Macromolecular Crystallography Beamline I24 in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the structural biology field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. Attend relevant conferences or seminars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential employers.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your previous work and research in macromolecular crystallography. This will not only highlight your skills but also give you something tangible to discuss during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses. Focus on articulating your experience with beamline operations and team management, as these are key for the Principal Beamline Scientist role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application directly. It shows initiative and gives you a better chance of standing out. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Beamline Scientist - Macromolecular Crystallography Beamline I24 in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Beamline Scientist role. Highlight your experience in structural biology and any relevant management skills. We want to see how your background aligns with the responsibilities of managing the I24 beamline.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about macromolecular crystallography and how you can contribute to our team at Diamond. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear vision for your research programme.
Showcase Your Team Leadership:Since this role involves managing a team, be sure to highlight your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've successfully led projects or teams in the past. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and guide others!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the StudySmarter family and contributing to cutting-edge research.
How to prepare for a job interview at Instruct-ERIC
✨Know Your Beamline Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the I24 beamline's capabilities and recent developments in macromolecular crystallography. Familiarise yourself with the latest research and techniques relevant to the field, as this will show your passion and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Beamline Scientist, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past. Highlight your experience in coordinating multi-disciplinary efforts and how you’ve driven research programmes forward.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to synchrotron operations, data collection methods, and software used in macromolecular crystallography. Brush up on your knowledge of Windows, Linux, and Unix systems, and be ready to discuss any programming skills you have, like Python or Java.
✨Engage with the User Community
Demonstrate your understanding of the user community's needs and how you plan to support them. Be prepared to discuss how you would manage user access to the beamline and ensure that their scientific requirements are met effectively.