Director, Center Functional Nanomaterials

Position: Director, Center for Functional Nanomaterials
Location: Upton

The Energy & Photon Sciences Directorate at Brookhaven National Laboratory advances fundamental and applied research in energy-related and photon-based sciences. The directorate supports a broad scientific mission spanning chemistry, materials science, condensed matter physics, and nanoscience, with a focus on understanding and controlling matter at the atomic and molecular scale. It operates world-class research facilities, including the National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II) and associated beamlines, enabling cutting-edge studies in energy storage, catalysis, quantum materials, and advanced imaging.

The directorate plays a key role in supporting U.S. Department of Energy missions by driving scientific discovery, enabling user research programs, and fostering innovation in energy technologies and materials science.

Brookhaven National Laboratory invites applications for the position of Director of the Center for Functional Nanomaterials. This senior leadership role carries responsibility for all aspects of CFN operations: scientific direction, user program, staff development, sponsor relationship, and BNL institutional engagement. The CFN Director reports to the Director of Energy Sciences and serves as a Division Leader within the Energy Sciences Department.

The CFN Director brings a strong scientific background, demonstrated experience leading research programs and scientific staff, and experience working within the DOE research environment. The ideal candidate combines scientific vision with the ability to galvanize staff, users, and sponsors around ambitious program directions. Experience directing a DOE user facility is an asset but is not required. Senior scientific leaders within DOE user facilities are encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

Scientific and Facility Leadership

You will:

* Lead CFN scientific and facility strategy, working with the CFN leadership team to design, assess, and adjust the five-year strategic plan in alignment with national science priorities.

* Oversee the CFN research program across all scientific groups, ensuring productive alignment between staff research and facility capabilities.

* Manage the CFN operating budget allocating resources for facility operations and sustained investment in new nanoscience capabilities.

* Ensure safe facility operations, fostering a culture of safety across all CFN activities.

* Represent the CFN within BNL by contributing to Laboratory-level strategic initiatives.

User Program and DOE Relationship

You will:

* Ensure a productive, and well-supported user community by engaging in multiple ways, including through the Users Executive Committee, to communicate facility plans, gather feedback, and strengthen the user program.

* Cultivate the CFN relationship with the DOE Office of Basic Energy Sciences, keeping them apprised of CFN accomplishments, operational status, and strategic directions.

* Lead the CFN through DOE facility operations reviews and all associated preparation, documentation, and follow-up.

* Work closely with the DOE Program Manager, maintaining regular communication on facility operations, research highlights, and staff accomplishments.

Staff Development and Organizational Culture

You will:

* Recruit, develop, and retain a cross functional staff of 70 expert scientists and technical professionals.

* Foster a dynamic, inclusive work environment where staff contributions are recognized and staff members are encouraged to grow professionally.

* Communicate the CFN mission clearly and consistently to staff, users, DOE, and the broader scientific community.

BNL and Institutional Engagement

You will:

* Engage the CFN Advisory Committees, organizing regular meetings and responding to committee recommendations.

* Represent the CFN in internal BNL leadership forums, including strategic planning.

* Present the CFN to external audiences including DOE staff, visiting scientists and leaders, and the general public.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

You are qualified for this position if:

* You have earned a Ph.D. degree in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a suitable Engineering discipline, with a research focus in…