Today we're marking the #InternationalDayOfLight. This year's theme is #LightForASustainableFuture, and synchrotron light at Diamond enables research into clean energy, advanced batteries and catalysts, and sustainable materials. We're proud to use light to help build a more sustainable future.

#ThrowbackThursday - In 2019 and 2024, ancient Herculaneum scrolls damaged by Mount Vesuvius arrived at Diamond to be studied using X‑ray imaging. Using the scans and AI, researchers "digitally unwrapped" the scrolls, revealing thousands of characters and even the Ancient Greek word for 'disgust'.

Diamond's I15-1 beamline is hosting a science user meeting on the 22-23 July 2026. The meeting will showcase the exciting total scattering and pair distribution function research within user community, as well as instrumental developments happening at Diamond. Apply here 👉 https://bit.ly/4dwxrWR

Francesca Gliubich has started today as Director of the Diamond Operations Division. Joining us ahead of the Diamond-II upgrade, Francesca will work closely with senior colleagues and leading teams to help ensure that operations support our scientific ambitions. Read more 👉 https://bit.ly/4eKaLnj

#ThrowbackThursday - In 2019, researchers used Diamond's I18 beamline to study a paint sample from Rembrandt's Homer. Using X-ray Diffraction Computed Tomography, they uncovered how lead-based paint reacts with atmospheric pollutants, helping to inform future conservation treatments.

It was wonderful to welcome a group from the Chevening Research, Science, and Innovation Leadership Fellowship yesterday. We were delighted to share insights into the facility and demonstrate the various ways that Diamond can support international collaboration and innovation.

Cutting-edge science depends on a healthy workplace. On the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, we want to shine a spotlight on how we create a safe and comfortable working environment at Diamond that extends beyond the physical. Senior SHE Advisor, Valerie Loughry, shares her thoughts 👇

There are still places at the Synchrotron Electrochemistry Workshop! The workshop allows synchrotron users to share expertise and explore how synchrotron-based techniques can be used for challenges in #electrochemistry. 📆 13-14 July 📍 Oxford 🕒 12:30-17:00 Register here 👉 https://bit.ly/4rVn3Mu

Today is #EarthDay 🌍 New research shows how synchrotron science can support a more sustainable future. Using X‑ray absorption spectroscopy on our B18 beamline, scientists gained new insights into how we can convert plastic waste into hydrogen fuel using sunlight. Read more 👉 https://bit.ly/4u2638v

That’s a wrap on #HAXPES2026!🎉 We were delighted to welcome over 100 delegates from around the world for inspiring talks, poster sessions, great conversations and a vibrant social programme. A fantastic few days of building new connections and driving international collaboration in the field.

Today is the start of HAXPES 2026! With attendees joining from around the world and a range of international expert speakers, the event acts as a global forum for discussing the latest in hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Find out more about HAXPES and our sponsors 👉 https://bit.ly/4tBxyFY

Congratulations to Senior Beamline Scientist at I04, David Aragao for receiving a Fellowship from @rsb.org.uk!👏 He has been recognised for his contribution to the biological sciences throughout his career and at Diamond. Find out more 👉 https://bit.ly/4tzmaKv

Today on #WorldHealthDay, we're proud to share the insights of scientists at Diamond Light Source whose research helps to protect global health 👇

There's still time to apply for our InfraRed Data and Image Analysis Training on QUASAR. The workshop will train current and potential users working with a wide spectrum of infrared applications. 📅 10-12 June 2026 🕐 09:30-15:00 📍 Diamond Light Source Apply online 👉 https://bit.ly/415ulSN

Last week, we welcomed 209 students and teachers for our Schools Open Day! On the tour they got to: 🔬 Learn about types of science that take place at Diamond ⭕ See the machine up close 👩‍🔬Ask the experts their questions Enter the ballot for the next one online 👉 https://bit.ly/410Epwq

A multidisciplinary team of researchers have recently discovered a mechanism that helps cancer cells avoid programmed cell death (apoptosis). @lund-university.bsky.social @umeauniversitet.bsky.social @illneutrons.bsky.social Read the full science highlight online 👉 https://bit.ly/4dKEGem

Applications are open for our Synchrotron Electrochemistry Workshop. Synchrotron users with varied interests and experience can share their expertise on synchrotron-based techniques for electrochemistry. 📆 13-14 July 📍 Jesus College, Oxford 🕒 12:30-17:00 Register here 👉 https://bit.ly/4rVn3Mu

On Saturday 345 visitors came to Diamond for our Open Day!💎 Visitors explored how the UK’s synchrotron enables science with real-world impact, and we also had the pleasure to take Nobel Prize winner John Jumper behind the scenes. Special thanks to @pirbrightinst.bsky.social and STFC!

Last Tuesday, Diamond CEO Gianluigi Botton and Head of Engineering Sarah Macdonell attended the Gold Leadership Luncheon at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. Diamond Light Source is a Gold Award holder in the Employer Recognition Scheme and is proud to be a Forces Friendly employer.

This #WorldWaterDay, we're sharing some research that could help to improve how we remove pollutants from water 💧 Using Diamond's B18 and I15-1 beamlines, researchers confirmed that a new hybrid material works better at cleaning water than using just one alone. Read more 👉 https://bit.ly/4d0FXxz

It was a pleasure for Diamond host the Governor of the @bankofengland.bsky.social as a part of their visit to Harwell Campus yesterday. The visit provided a valuable opportunity to showcase the extensive range of science that takes place at the facility.

Our B18 beamline recently celebrated its 1,000th publication in Diamond's database!🎉 Combining X-ray absorption #spectroscopy with electrochemical measurements, the team uncovered how hydration enhances the activity of iridium oxide catalysts used in #PEMWE. Read more 👉 https://bit.ly/3Nr9VAx

Today is the #SpringEquinox which officially marks the start of spring.🌸 To celebrate the arrival of longer evenings, warmer temperatures and (hopefully) more blue skies, we're sharing some beautiful photographs taken near Diamond by Senior Beamline Scientist, James Sandy. 📸