Division Director, X-ray Science Division

Argonne National Laboratory; Lemont (IL); On-site; USD 253,997 - 396,235; Full time

Job summary

Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, Illinois, is seeking a Division Director for the X-ray Science Division (XSD). In this role, you will lead the development of x-ray instrumentation and oversee the operation of 48 beamlines, ensuring world-class research opportunities.

The ideal candidate will possess a PhD and over 15 years of dedicated experience in relevant scientific domains. Responsibilities include guiding R&D efforts, collaborating with senior management, and supporting new scientific directions.

Competitive compensation ranging from $253,997 to $396,235 based on experience, with a comprehensive benefits package included.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 15+ years of experience in developing x-ray beamlines or comparable scientific instrumentation.
• Extensive knowledge of synchrotron radiation applications in high-brightness, hard x-ray sources.
• Experience managing relationships with sponsors or stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead beamline development and strategy following recent source performance improvements.
• Provide guidance for instrumentation R&D, x-ray optics, and software activities.
• Collaborate with other directors to integrate APS strategies.

Skills

X-ray instrumentation

Scientific research

Team management

Interpersonal communication

Education

PhD in relevant scientific or technical field

Job description

Overview

Argonne National Laboratory’s Photon Sciences directorate is seeking a Division Director for the X-ray Science Division (XSD). XSD enables world‑class research using x-rays by developing cutting‑edge x‑ray instrumentation and techniques and pursues research in the physical, chemical, environmental, and materials sciences. The Division Director will oversee the operation of 48 beamlines at the Advanced Photon Source (APS) and an additional beamline in partnership with Argonne’s Center for Nanoscale Materials.

Responsibilities

• Lead beamline development and strategy to take advantage of the recent source performance leap.
• Provide high‑level direction and guidance for instrumentation R&D, x‑ray optics, detector, and scientific software activities.
• Collaborate with other Argonne Division Directors and APS Partners to integrate programs into APS strategies.
• Serve as a member of the APS senior management team and support the APS Director’s Office in developing new scientific directions for the facility.
• Assure efficient and safe operation of current XSD programs.

Position Requirements

• PhD in a relevant scientific or technical field with a minimum of 15+ years of experience; preferred background in developing x‑ray beamlines or comparable complex scientific instrumentation.
• Extensive knowledge of, and high scientific reputation in, the application of synchrotron radiation in at least one of the strategic areas of a high‑brightness, hard x‑ray source.
• Experience managing relationships with sponsors or shareholders at a senior level and establishing strong partnerships with scientific user communities and sister facilities.
• Experience managing safe, efficient operations in a large scientific/research environment.
• Experience developing, managing, and motivating a high‑performing multidisciplinary scientific, technical, and professional support team.
• Experience in the strategic incorporation of talent management in overall workforce planning.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, enabling positive, productive interactions with external and internal contacts at all levels, including senior Laboratory management and distinguished visitors.
• Ability to model Argonne’s Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

Job Details

Job Family: Research Development (RD)
Job Profile: R&D Multi‑Functional Leader
Worker Type: Regular Time – Full time

Compensation

The expected hiring range for this position is $253,997.00 – $396,235.71. Pay is determined based on qualifications and other factors. A comprehensive benefits package is part of the total rewards.

Equal Employment Opportunity

As an equal employment opportunity employer, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages all qualified applicants to apply. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.