Chemical Sciences and Engineering Division Director

Argonne National Laboratory invites applications for the position of Director for the Chemical Sciences and Engineering (CSE) Division, a research division within the Physical Sciences and Engineering Directorate. The CSE Division drives breakthrough scientific discovery and innovation in chemical sciences and engineering to address major societal challenges in energy, materials, and national security. Division research spans fundamental and translational science, from atomic, molecular, nano, and mesoscale chemistries to complex chemical transformations (including photochemistry, electrochemistry, catalysis, geochemistry, and combustion), as well as energy storage and conversion, separations science, heavy element chemistry, ultra-fast chemistry, and interfacial phenomena. Leveraging world-class experimental and computational capabilities, including the Advanced Photon Source, Center for Nanoscale Materials, Leadership Computing Facility, and the Accelerated Discovery Laboratory, the division delivers high-impact science and partnerships that shape the future of energy and chemical technologies.

The Division Director will provide strategic and operational leadership for a diverse portfolio of scientific research programs, foster cross-disciplinary collaboration, and grow the division’s scientific footprint. This role includes developing and executing a compelling research vision that aligns with Argonne’s mission and Department of Energy (DOE) priorities, strengthening external partnerships, and ensuring excellence in safety, organizational performance, and alignment with Argonne’s Core Values.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide visionary leadership to define and advance the division’s scientific strategy and research priorities, including fundamental chemical physics, gas phase dynamics, energy storage and conversion, separations science, heavy elements chemistry, ultrafast chemistry, catalysis, interfacial sciences, computational and data-enabled discovery, and translational chemical engineering.

• Lead the development of ambitious, cohesive research agendas that leverage CSE’s strengths and Argonne’s national user facilities to address pressing challenges in energy, chemical transformations, and critical materials.

• Champion interdisciplinary research and partnerships across Argonne, academia, industry, and government agencies to enhance impact and accelerate deployment of new technologies.

• Manage division operations, including research execution, staffing and talent development, financial planning, resource allocation, and performance evaluation.

• Foster a culture of collaboration and safety that enables scientists and staff to thrive.

• Serve as a principal advocate and spokesperson for the division’s science to DOE sponsors, funding agencies, stakeholders, and the broader scientific community.

• Serve as laboratory point of contact for DOE, Basic Energy Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Geosciences, and Biosciences Division.

• Acquire and maintain relationships with multiple funding sources including the DOE Office of Critical Materials and Energy Innovation (CMEI) and Hydrocarbons and Geothermal Energy Office (HGEO).

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and Laboratory policies and maintain high standards of scientific integrity, environmental, safety, and security practices.

Position Requirements

Basic Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a relevant science or engineering field supplemented by no less than fifteen years of experience including relevant, demonstrated accomplishments in scientific leadership.

• Demonstrated success in setting scientific direction, building and sustaining high-performing teams, and fostering interdisciplinary and collaborative research programs.

• Clear record of research accomplishments and ability to secure competitive external funding.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with experience interacting with senior leadership, government sponsors, and scientific peers.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a leadership role within a national laboratory, research institute, or academic setting.

• Established relationships with DOE Science programs and knowledge of federal research priorities in energy, chemical sciences, and related fields.

• Track record of driving large-scale research initiatives, partnerships, and impact-oriented scientific agendas.

• Commitment to mentoring scientists and promoting an impactful and collaborative research environment.

Job Family

Job Profile

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Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

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