About

Diamond Light Source is the UK’s national synchrotron serving scientists and researchers from around the world. It is a not-for-profit joint venture funded by UK Research & Innovation (UKRI) and Wellcome. Diamond provides academic and industry researchers access to facilities that enable world-changing science. The machine generates extremely bright light that is directed into laboratories known as beamlines. Scientists use the light to find solutions to humanity’s most critical challenges, from health, food security and biotechnology to energy, climate change and advanced materials. Diamond is in the process of upgrading to a fourth-generation synchrotron, generating a brighter and more coherent light. This will provide enhanced imaging and analysis capabilities, helping the UK to remain at the forefront of scientific discovery. Discover how Diamond is advancing UK science goals.

Diamond is based at Harwell, a research and innovation supercampus home to cutting-edge scientific instruments, institutes, businesses, and expert teams advancing knowledge and finding solutions. Founded in 1946 as a hub for pioneering technology, the Oxfordshire campus now hosts over 7,000 scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and technicians – all focused on solving complex problems. Proximity sparks unexpected collaborations, breaks down barriers, and connects ideas with people who can implement them, resulting in faster innovation and solutions that wouldn't emerge in isolation. From the materials in your smartphone to the satellites overhead, from life-saving medicines to the clean energy grid, science, technologies and businesses born at Harwell boost the economy and improve billions of lives.