Science

Case for change

The aim of the Diamond-II project is to consolidate Diamond’s position as a world-leading research facility through the implementation of cutting-edge technology that will transform its ability to generate scientific knowledge and impact on 21st century challenges.

These developments will help inspire and nurture the next generation of STEM professionals and fully exploit synergy with other facilities, institutes and many companies located at the Harwell Campus, increasing its impact as a global centre for research and innovation.

The project will also provide significant environmental benefits, not only through the science it will deliver but also by enabling more sustainable operation.

Diamond-II will create new scientific opportunities for researchers in universities, research institutes and industry, ultimately having a lasting impact on our society and the economy.

See the project timeline

Enabling new science

The continued advancements in life sciences enabled through this upgrade, will enrich our understanding of biological structure across many scales and dimensions. This includes spatial dimensions where atomic level details describe life in terms of fundamental chemistry and dynamic, and where changes are measured at time-scales relevant to biology; from one-billionth of a second to minutes.

Diamond-II will also deliver transformative gains in many areas of X-ray research in physical sciences through ground breaking technical innovation. For example, the improved energy and spatial resolution of spectrometers will allow unprecedented sensitivity to the speed of electronic changes during chemical processes, catalysis, battery charging, and the elementary excitations in quantum materials.

Download our comprehensive Science Case which highlights the key opportunities and changes that Diamond-II will bring to each of the scientific disciplines and techniques served by Diamond Light Source.