Anna Kroner - Industrial Liaison Scientist

What’s your professional background and how did you come to work at Diamond?

During my Master’s degree in chemistry at the University of Wroclaw in Poland, I worked on the development of new Al-based catalysts applied in the polymerisation of lactic acid. Its biodegradable product is widely used in the form of medical implants like stents, implantable drug dispensers and food packaging. I wanted to continue my studies abroad, so I looked for PhD opportunities at the University of Southampton.

I worked on a collaboration between the university and the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in Grenoble, studying ceria and zirconia doping on Rh-based catalysts. These materials are typically used as a main component of catalytic converters in petrol-driven vehicles. During my stay at the ESRF I enjoyed my experience working on one of the beamlines, and setting up complex, tailored experiments for academic and industrial users. I was keen to follow a career where my work would have a direct impact on solving industrial problems. I joined Diamon in January 2009 as Industrial Liaison Scientist.

What do you do here and how does your experience help you do your job?

I am a specialist in X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and my primary role as Senior Industrial Liaison Scientist at Diamond involves providing support to existing clients in the field of spectroscopy, whilst also promoting the capabilities of the facility to potential customers. Spectroscopy measurements are often carried out ex situ to obtain complex information on a variety of materials. However, the core advantage of applying these types of synchrotron techniques is the ability to perform them under in situ conditions. I have therefore also been involved in leading a couple of projects focused on the development of bespoke reaction cells to allow the capture of material measurements under real, or close to realistic, industrial conditions. Throughout the time in my role, I have also carried out several research projects in collaboration with academic and industrial partners. These projects have focused on a variety of goals such as the development of novel catalytic materials, new engine oil additives, new sample environments and advanced characterisation. 

What’s your favourite thing about working at Diamond?

There are many aspects of my job I enjoy, but I especially like the diversity of tasks and challenges which I come across every day.  One day I can meet with a customer to discuss their enquiries and design their experiments at Diamond. On another day, I might work on the beamline and carry out spectroscopy experiments alongside my clients, or on their behalf. Once a successful experiment has been completed, I dedicate my days to data analysis and reporting.

The XAS technique is often used in operando studies, wherein a sample is measured online under continuously changing conditions. This means that some of my time is spent in the laboratory working on the development and testing of sample environments, which are subsequently used for experiments on the beamline.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to get involved in your field?

If you enjoy working as part of a team and are passionate about science and innovation, Diamond is a perfect place to explore diverse opportunities. Dependent upon your level of experience, I would recommend talking directly to people working in your field of interest, perhaps participating in Diamonds Year in Industry scheme, working at other scientific facilities, or simply building your experience through participating in projects dedicated to advanced characterisation methods.

What makes Diamond different from other organisations that you could work for?

Diamond truly operates across a wide range of different disciplines, which provides great opportunities for each employee to learn from their colleagues. The success of the facility can be attributed to a true mix of people with different backgrounds and expertise, all working together as a team. This keeps the job both very interesting and challenging.