Principal Electron Microscopy Scientist – eBIC

Diamond Light Source; East Hagbourne; On-site; GBP 4,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading scientific facility in the UK seeks a Principal EM Scientist to advance its cryo-electron microscopy capabilities. The role involves leading a research team, establishing a competitive programme, and seeking funding opportunities. Successful candidates will hold a relevant MSc or PhD and have a strong background in cryoEM methods and structural biology. Exceptional benefits include 26 days of annual leave and flexible working hours.

Benefits

26 days annual leave

Flexible working hours

Defined benefit pension scheme

Sports and leisure facilities

Qualifications

• Candidates should have an appropriate first degree plus relevant MSc or PhD.
• Proven track record in cryoEM methods required.
• Experience in cryoFIB/SEM, cryo-electron tomography is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team to establish a competitive research programme.
• Contribute to development and operation of eBIC's user programme.
• Apply for external grant funding through various agencies.

Skills

Expertise in cryoEM methods

Background in structural biology

Proficiency in Windows, Linux, and Unix

Strong communication skills

Education

Relevant MSc or PhD

Job description

Overview

Diamond Light Source is one of the world’s most advanced scientific facilities. We’re home to the UK’s synchrotron light source, producing beams of light 10 billion times brighter than the sun. Probing the structure and composition of matter, our work drives innovation in everything from vaccines to nanotech.

The electron Bio-Imaging Centre (eBIC) at Diamond is the UK National Centre for cryo-electron microscopy in the life sciences. eBIC provides scientists with state-of-the-art instruments and expertise in the field of cryo-electron imaging, for single particle analysis, tomography, and electron diffraction.

About the Role

We now have an excellent opportunity at group-leader level for a Principal EM Scientist to underpin and further develop eBIC as a leading centre for cryoEM.

eBIC together with B24, a full-field cryo X-ray transmission microscopy beamline, makeup the Biological Cryo-Imaging group at Diamond, which combined with the capabilities of the physical science Imaging and Microscopy group provide an extraordinarily strong platform for using electrons, X-rays and visible light to image a diverse range of samples across a range of length and time scales.

As Principal EM Scientist you will lead a small team of scientists to establish a competitive research programme which exploits the capabilities of eBIC and Diamond in general and contribute to the development and operation of eBICs rapidly growing international user programme.

To facilitate establishing your research programme, funding for a post-doctoral research fellow is likely to be available, subject to a suitable case being made, as well as the opportunity for PhD studentships within Diamond's PhD programme. You will have access to state-of-the-art laboratories for structural and cellular biology embedded at eBIC and within the Research Complex at Harwell to pursue your research. We also expect candidates to apply for external grant funding through national and international funding agencies to take full advantage of the stimulating and exciting research environment at Diamond.

Instrumentation and software development is facilitated by dedicated support from Diamond’s computing, engineering and scientific software groups as well as partnerships with CCP-EM and the Rosalind Franklin Institute amongst others.

About You

Suitable candidates will hold an appropriate first degree along with a relevant MSc or PhD or demonstrate significant equivalent experience.

You will demonstrate expertise and a proven track record in cryoEM methods. A strong background in in situ structural biology, particularly cryoFIB/SEM, cryo-electron tomography and sub-tomogram averaging is highly desirable.

You will also have substantial experience with structural and cellular biology techniques, as well as proficiency in Windows, Linux, and Unix environments.

You will demonstrate strong interpersonal, communication and presentation skills, so as to interact effectively with staff and facility users at all levels.

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.

This role qualifies for a non-pensionable allowance of £3,500 per annum.

To Apply

Applicants are required to outline their suitability for this role via the online application process and should include a summary of current and future research plans (max 3 pages).

Diamond is a thriving international organization, attracting a diverse range of talented individuals from around the world. Our staff currently comprises 56 nationalities and we welcome applications from everyone interested in joining us.

The closing date for applications is 5th October 2025