Description

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:

1. New imaging and spectroscopy modalities
2. Ultrafast and in situ/operando techniques
3. 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

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
• 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:

1. Quantum science and technology
2. Microelectronics
3. Sensing
4. Energy conversion and storage

Considerable experience in designing and implementing novel nanotechnologies as they relate to electron and X-ray microscopy, including:

1. Ultrafast and time-resolved methods
2. Advanced detector and instrumentation development
3. 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:

1. Publishing in peer-reviewed journals
2. Presenting at scientific conferences
3. 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:

1. Inspire and guide teams
2. Build consensus across diverse stakeholders
3. Deliver measurable scientific and operational impact