Fusion Engineering and Applied Materials Division Director

Fusion Engineering and Applied Materials Division Director

We are seeking an accomplished scientific and technical leader to serve as Division Director of the Fusion Engineering and Applied Materials Division (FEAMD) within the Fusion and Fission Energy Sciences Directorate (FFESD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). Reporting to and working closely with the Associate Laboratory Director for FFESD, the Division Director will provide strategic leadership for ORNL’s fusion engineering, plasma-material interaction, plasma-facing component and fusion‑enabling technology programs.

The Fusion Engineering and Applied Materials Division serves a critical role in advancing the science and technology required for practical fusion energy systems. The division includes leadership and operation of the Materials Plasma Exposure eXperiment (MPEX), world‑leading capabilities in plasma‑material interaction science, plasma‑facing component technologies, fusion engineering, diagnostics and control systems, heating and current‑drive technologies, superconducting magnet technologies, and other enabling technologies essential to future fusion energy systems.

Building on ORNL’s long history of leadership in fusion energy research and technology development, the Division Director will help develop and execute a vision and strategy that integrates capabilities from across ORNL to address key challenges facing fusion energy development. The successful candidate will lead programs that span foundational scientific research, applied technology development, facility operations, and strategic partnerships that support the realization of commercially relevant fusion energy systems.

The Division Director will be responsible for developing and executing a multidimensional R&D portfolio that advances the DOE Office of Science Fusion Energy Sciences mission while supporting emerging opportunities with industry, other federal agencies, universities, and international partners. This includes stewardship of major facilities and programs, development of future capabilities, and cultivation of a highly talented workforce capable of addressing the nation’s most pressing fusion energy challenges.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Develop, communicate, and execute a strategic vision for the Fusion Engineering and Applied Materials Division, working closely with the FFESD ALD, peer FFESD division directors, and leaders in other ORNL organizations.
• Provide leadership and stewardship for the MPEX facility, ensuring successful execution of scientific, technical, operational, safety, and project objectives.
• Serve as a programmatic interface with DOE Fusion Energy Sciences and other sponsoring organizations, working closely with FFESD ALD, FFESD Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Director, and peer FFESD division directors to ensure consistent, effective communication on key matters.
• Advance ORNL leadership in plasma‑material interaction science, plasma‑facing component technologies, fusion engineering, and fusion‑enabling technologies.
• Foster the development of innovative research programs that address critical challenges associated with fusion pilot plants and future commercial fusion energy systems.
• Working with the FFESD Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Director, strengthen and expand strategic partnerships with private fusion companies, universities, national laboratories, and international organizations to accelerate fusion energy development.
• Advance the scientific excellence and impact of the division through publications, intellectual property development, technology transfer, invited presentations, and leadership in the broader fusion community.
• Grow and sustain technical capabilities and workforce expertise needed to address current and future fusion science and technology challenges.
• Review and approve proposals, strategic initiatives, and program investments to ensure alignment with ORNL, FFESD, and sponsor priorities.
• Oversee effective workforce development program that attracts and retains diverse, high‑quality staff.
• Ensure a vibrant, inclusive workplace environment in which all staff can contribute and succeed.
• Collaborate…