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 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 ResponsibilitiesProvide scientific, technical, and operational leadership for the Electron and X-ray Microscopy (EXM) Group, ensuring safe, reliable, and effective user operationsDevelop, lead, and execute innovative R&D programs in electron and X-ray microscopy that achieve international recognition and align with CNM and Argonne strategic prioritiesConduct original research in nanoscience, from concept development through experimental execution, analysis, and dissemination via peer-reviewed publications and presentationsManage and mentor a team of scientists, postdocs, and engineers specializing in electron and X-ray microscopy, fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performance cultureAdvance 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 experienceDrive the development and implementation of advanced microscopy technologies, including:New imaging and spectroscopy modalitiesUltrafast and in situ/operando techniquesAdvanced detector technologies and correlative approaches that reveal structure–function relationshipsContribute to and enhance data-intensive microscopy workflows, including data management strategies and, where appropriate, AI/ML-enabled experimental design and data analysisOversee 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 programsBuild and sustain strong collaborations across CNM, APS, other Argonne divisions, and external academic and industrial partnersCommunicate group goals, progress, and impact effectively to stakeholders at all levels, and represent the EXM Group and CNM in internal and external forumsPosition RequirementsPh.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 scienceDemonstrated understanding of the complementary and synergistic use of electron and X-ray microscopies to address forefront problems in nanoscienceConsiderable knowledge of the application of nanostructures to key technological areas such as:Quantum science and technologyMicroelectronicsSensingEnergy conversion and storageConsiderable experience in designing and implementing novel nanotechnologies as they relate to electron and X-ray microscopy, including:Ultrafast and time-resolved methodsAdvanced detector and instrumentation developmentComplementary spectroscopies that elucidate structure–property–function relationshipsKnowledge of data management practices and AI/ML approaches for experimental planning, workflow optimization, and data analysis is beneficialAdvanced ability to interpret and integrate complex experimental results within current theoretical and conceptual frameworksStrong communication skills, both verbal and written, with a track record of:Publishing in peer-reviewed journalsPresenting at scientific conferencesCommunicating effectively with staff, management, and external stakeholdersProven ability to identify, prioritize, and resolve issues, providing clear, concise, and actionable recommendations that support efficient operations and strategic decision-makingExcellent organizational skills, with the ability to balance multiple projects, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environmentAbility to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamworkDemonstrated leadership through influence, including the ability to:Inspire and guide teamsBuild consensus across diverse stakeholdersDeliver measurable scientific and operational impactJob FamilyResearch Development (RD)Job ProfilePhysics Leader 1Worker TypeRegularTime TypeFull timeThe expected hiring range for this position is $137,577.00 - $223,567.11.Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package. Click here to view Argonne employee benefits!As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department. All Argonne offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes an assessment of criminal conviction history conducted on an individualized and case-by-case basis. Please be advised that Argonne positions require upon hire (or may require in the future) for the individual be to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.SummaryLocation: Lemont, IL USA; Hybrid On-site / VirtualType: Full time