Senior​/Data Acquisition Software Engineer D-II; SCM and Crystallography

Senior/Data Acquisition Software Engineer for D-II (SCM and Crystallography) Base pay range

Actual pay will be based on skills and experience. Talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Software helps to enable the world‑leading science performed  software systems facilitate operations at all levels, including the low‑level control of synchrotron and beamline hardware, the planning, execution and monitoring of experiments, data archiving and retrieval, data processing and visualisation, the application for beamtime, and capture of remote experiment plans and samples. Our software engineers work alongside our scientists to develop innovative and robust solutions to keep Diamond at the forefront of scientific research.

We are currently undertaking a major upgrade of the facility, known as Diamond‑II. It will combine a new machine and beamlines with upgrades to optics, detectors, sample environments, delivery capabilities and computing, ultimately generating an even more brilliant light source at higher energy.

Software engineer within the DAQ group, supporting and developing software for Diamond’s Soft Condensed Matter (SCM) and Crystallography (X) science groups on a 4‑year fixed term basis. Main focus on developing new Athena software for the Soft Condensed Matter and Crystallography beamlines.

Athena is the modernised experiment control/orchestration software platform for Diamond‑II. It is being developed with up‑to‑date technologies and practices, aiming to be easier to set up, support, extend and develop than GDA, which it is intended to replace.

Central to the Athena architecture are Bluesky and Ophyd‑Async, Python libraries for experiment control and data collection. You will be responsible for developing and transitioning the experimental capabilities of GDA to Athena, whilst offering new experimental capabilities to the beamlines.

Once Athena is in use during user experiments, you will provide ongoing support and extension of the DAQ capabilities. You will also work with teammates to support existing SCM+X beamlines and assist with their migration from GDA to Athena.

As a DAQ group software engineer you will collaborate with scientists to translate specifications into software requirements, liaise with controls, data analysis and information management engineers, deliver SCM and Crystallography DAQ features using Athena services, and provide insights to help refine Athena’s generic capabilities. Potential participation in international collaborations is possible.

• First degree in a STEM subject, preferably with a relevant MSc or PhD.
• Experience in the Software Development Life Cycle and modern high‑level languages.
• Good software design principles and usability focus.
• Knowledge of controlling/monitoring scientific or industrial equipment or IoT preferred.
• Knowledge of synchrotron or neutron central facility experiments preferred.
• Experience with large and complex code bases:
  Python, HDF5, Typescript, UI development, Java, Eclipse RCP, REST, Kubernetes, asynchronous computing.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, analytical skills and personal interest or experience in science.

Diamond offers an exceptional benefits package to support staff in achieving a positive work/life balance. Includes 26 days annual leave plus Christmas closure, public holidays, 2 annual volunteering days and flexible working hours. Excellent defined benefit pension scheme. Access to on‑site amenities: nursery, cafes, restaurant, sports and leisure facilities. Relocation allowance may be available where applicable. Standard hybrid working arrangement: minimum 3 days onsite per week.

Please use the online application process and tell us why you believe you are suitable for this role.

When applying, state whether you wish to be considered at Data Acquisition Software Engineer or Senior Data Acquisition Software Engineer level.

Visa sponsorship is available at the Senior level; not available at the Software Engineer level, except potentially for new entrants. For more information, visit

The closing date for applications is 8 February 2026; early applications are encouraged as some candidates may be interviewed before this date.

Not Applicable

Full‑time

Information Technology and Science

Research Services