Group Leader - Electron and X-ray Microscopy; EXM

The Group Leader (GL) for the Electron and X-ray Microscopy (EXM) Group at the Center for Nanoscale Materials (CNM) develops, leads, and executes world‑class R&D programs in electron and X-ray microscopy, achieving international recognition for scientific excellence. The GL ensures safe, efficient, and impactful user and research operations, combining hands‑on research with strategic leadership of a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide scientific, technical, and operational leadership for the EXM Group, ensuring safe, reliable, and effective user operations.
• Develop, lead, and execute innovative R&D programs in electron and X-ray microscopy that achieve international recognition and align with CNM and Argonne strategic priorities.
• Conduct original research in nanoscience, from concept development through experimental execution, analysis, and dissemination via peer‑reviewed publications and presentations.
• Manage and mentor a team of scientists, postdocs, and engineers specializing in electron and X-ray microscopy, fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and high‑performance culture.
• Advance the CNM user science program, enabling cutting‑edge experiments in electron microscopy and synchrotron X‑ray microscopy at the APS, and ensuring a high‑quality user experience.
• Drive the development and implementation of advanced microscopy technologies, including:
• New imaging and spectroscopy modalities
• Ultrafast and in situ/operando techniques
• Advanced detector technologies and correlative approaches that reveal structure‑function relationships
• Contribute to and enhance data‑intensive microscopy workflows, including data management strategies and, where appropriate, AI/ML‑enabled experimental design and data analysis.
• Oversee day‑to‑day group operations, including resource allocation, budgeting, scheduling, safety protocols and procedures, and facility planning to support both user and in‑house research programs.
• Build and sustain strong collaborations across CNM, APS, other Argonne divisions, and external academic and industrial partners.
• Communicate group goals, progress, and impact effectively to stakeholders at all levels, and represent the EXM Group and CNM in internal and external forums.

Position Requirements

• Ph.D. in materials science, physics, chemistry, electrical engineering, or a related field, and 10 years of relevant research experience (post‑Ph.D.).
• Considerable knowledge of electron and X‑ray microscopy techniques and their application to nanoscience, with strong connections to chemistry, physics, and materials science.
• Demonstrated understanding of the complementary and synergistic use of electron and X‑ray micros copies to address forefront problems in nanoscience.
• Considerable knowledge of the application of nanostructures to key technological areas such as:
• Quantum science and technology
• Microelectronics
• Sensing
• Energy conversion and storage
• Considerable experience in designing and implementing novel nanotechnologies as they relate to electron and X‑ray microscopy, including:
• Ultrafast and time‑resolved methods
• Advanced detector and instrumentation development
• Complementary spectroscopies that elucidate structure‑property‑function relationships
• Knowledge of data management practices and AI/ML approaches for experimental planning, workflow optimization, and data analysis is beneficial.
• Advanced ability to interpret and integrate complex experimental results within current theoretical and conceptual frameworks.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with a track record of:
• Publishing in peer‑reviewed journals
• Presenting at scientific conferences
• Communicating effectively with staff, management, and external stakeholders
• Proven ability to identify, prioritize, and resolve issues, providing clear, concise, and actionable recommendations that support efficient operations and strategic decision‑making.
• Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to balance multiple projects, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to model Argonne's core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork.
• Demonstrated leadership through influence, including the ability to:
• Inspire and guide teams
• Build consensus across diverse stakeholders
• Deliver measurable scientific and operational impact

Job Family:
Research Development (RD)

Job Profile:
Physics Leader 1

Position Type:
Regular, Full Time

Salary Range: $ – $ (general guideline; final offer based on qualifications, responsibilities, and market).

Equal Employment Opportunity:
Argonne National Laboratory is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to nondiscrimination in all aspects of employment, providing a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation.