An ion electrode extraction assembly comprising an ion source 20 and at least one electrode 50 having a gap through which a beam of extracted ions passes in use. An electrode manipulator assembly 55 is provided to move the electrode so as to vary the width of the gap transversely to the ion beam, move the electrode transversely to the ion beam, and move the electrode in the direction of the ion beam. The three degrees of movement being carried out independently of one another.