Matthew Hand
About Matthew Hand
Matthew Hand is an Optics Scientist at Diamond Light Source, specializing in soft X-ray polarimetry and optical component design. He holds an MPhys (Hons) in Physics from the University of Warwick and has developed custom Python codes to enhance automation in his research.
Work at Diamond Light Source
Matthew Hand has been employed at Diamond Light Source since 2013, serving as an Optics Scientist within the Optics & Metrology Group. His role involves supporting beamline staff with the installation and commissioning of optical components. He conducts research in soft X-ray polarimetry utilizing the high-precision Diamond polarimeter. His work contributes to the advancement of optical systems used in synchrotron facilities.
Education and Expertise
Matthew Hand studied at the University of Warwick from 2005 to 2009, where he earned a Master of Physics (MPhys Hons) degree. He furthered his education as a PhD student at the same institution from 2009 to 2014 in the Department of Physics. His academic background has equipped him with expertise in optics, particularly in designing and optimizing microscope optics using OSLO ray tracing software.
Research and Development
During his PhD, Matthew Hand developed new instrumentation for X-ray excited optical luminescence microscopy. He has created custom Python codes to enhance automation in design and data analysis tasks. His research focuses on soft X-ray polarimetry, and he has developed skills in using software packages for ray tracing, reflectivity, and diffraction efficiency calculations.
Technical Skills and Contributions
Matthew Hand possesses skills in developing hardware and software solutions for remote control and automatic data acquisition. He has implemented control systems that integrate with complex external systems, including synchrotron beamlines. His contributions enhance the functionality and efficiency of optical systems in research environments.