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 is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and impactful user and research operations. This role combines hands-on research with strategic leadership of a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers.
The GL advances the frontiers of nanoscience by conceiving, conducting, and disseminating high-impact experimental research. The position plays a central role in strengthening the CNM user science program, with a particular focus on electron microscopy and synchrotron-based X-ray microscopy at the Advanced Photon Source (APS). The GL also contributes to the development of next-generation microscopy methods, instrumentation, and data workflows, while overseeing the group's day-to-day operations, budget, user science portfolio, and R&D activities.
Key Responsibilities
+ Provide scientific, technical, and operational leadership for the Electron and X-ray Microscopy (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 microscopies 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