Diamond Light Source (link opens in a new window) is a third generation synchrotron light source facility based at Harwell Oxford, South Oxfordshire.
Diamond produces X-ray, infrared and ultra-violet beams. These highly focused beams of light enable scientists and engineers to probe deep into the basic structure of matter and materials, answering fundamental questions about everything from the building blocks of life to the origin of our planet.
Synchrotron light is an indispensable tool in many research areas including physics, chemistry, materials science and crystallography. In addition, synchrotron light is increasingly being exploited by new communities such as medicine, geological and environmental studies, structural genomics and archaeology.
The Diamond Light Source Ltd is funded by the STFC and the Wellcome Trust, owning 86% and 14% of the shares respectively.