​After obtaining his PhD in high intensity laser-plasma interactions in 2008 from Imperial College James joined the CLF working as a post-doctoral researcher studying aspects of ion acceleration and developing new high repetition rate diagnostics. Since joining the Experimental Science Group in 2012, James has worked primarily in the Vulcan and Gemini target areas, planning and overseeing user experiments, delivering target area upgrades, and coordinating training programmes for young scientists. James maintains an independent research program in collaboration with the CLF users, currently focussed on advanced methods of controlling laser-accelerated fast electron beams.