Dr Mark Basham

Mark’s primary research contributions have focused on the removal of barriers between computational methods, such as AI and data management, and scientific domains where they can be applied, alongside the open development of these techniques. He is a strong advocate of open source software tools that focus on the similarities between different fields rather than their differences, and in so doing, bring advances to all.

A key aspect of these collaborative projects is their inclusive nature, bringing key stakeholders to the table. Throughout his career, Mark has gathered together groups of interdisciplinary scientists and engineers, with the focus to improve the quality and efficiency of the scientific domains where impact can be achieved.

Currently Mark works closely with his colleagues around the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory campus and university collaborators on enhancing the variety of software projects critical to making the most of the revolutionary experimental setups which will be available at the Rosalind Franklin Institute.

Mark has a real passion for public engagement, he is the creator of the Lego Beamline (#legobeamline) which helps to explain how synchrotron experiments are performed, and promotes STEM with local schools and as well as many other engagement projects.

Mark was awarded his Physics PhD in surface science simulation from the University of Reading, he then moved to data acquisition and analysis of synchrotron data after working with experimental colleagues in the field.