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Science Careers

Director, High Energy Physics Division

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What they do

An Astronomer observes, researches, and interprets astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.

$105,326 / year median in Illinois

-2% projected decline

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Job Description

Argonne National Laboratory invites applications for the position of Director of the High Energy Physics (HEP) Division, a core research division within the Physical Sciences and Engineering Directorate. The HEP Division advances discovery at the frontiers of particle physics, cosmology, and theory, with the mission of understanding the fundamental constituents of matter and energy and revealing the nature of space and time. The Division plays leading roles in the conception, construction, and operation of some of the world's most sophisticated scientific instruments, including particle accelerators, large-scale detectors, and precision cosmological survey facilities. HEP research at Argonne integrates experimental, theoretical, and computational science. Division researchers leverage advanced computing capabilities for extreme-scale simulation and data analysis and develop methods to manage and interpret the vast data streams produced by modern experiments. Theoretical efforts complement these activities by driving conceptual advances and guiding experimental discovery. Because High Energy Physics projects often involve large, complex collaborations spanning multiple institutions and nations, national laboratories play a uniquely critical role. The Division Director will provide scientific leadership, strategic vision, and operational stewardship for an internationally recognized research portfolio, while strengthening partnerships across the national laboratory system, universities, and global collaborations. This role includes developing and executing a compelling research vision aligned with Argonne's mission and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) priorities, strengthening external partnerships, and ensuring excellence in safety, organizational performance, and alignment with Argonne's Core Values. Key Responsibilities
  • Provide visionary leadership to define and advance the Division's scientific strategy and research priorities.
  • Lead the development of ambitious, cohesive research agendas that leverage HEP and Argonne strengths to address foundational questions in particle physics, cosmology, and theory.
  • Champion interdisciplinary research and partnerships across Argonne, academia, industry, government agencies, and international collaborations to enhance scientific impact.
  • Manage Division operations, including research execution, staffing and talent development, financial planning, resource allocation, and performance evaluation.
  • Foster a culture of collaboration and safety that enables scientists and staff to thrive.
  • Serve as a principal advocate and spokesperson for the Division's science to DOE sponsors, funding agencies, stakeholders, and the broader scientific community.
  • Serve as the laboratory point of contact for DOE High Energy Physics.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with multiple funding sources and strategic partners.
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and laboratory policies and uphold high standards of scientific integrity, environmental stewardship, safety, and security.
  • Serve on Argonne-wide and external committees to promote laboratory science programs and strategic perspectives. Basic Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in a relevant science or engineering field, supplemented by at least 15 years of experience that includes demonstrated accomplishments in scientific leadership.
  • Demonstrated success in setting scientific direction, building and sustaining high-performing teams, and fostering interdisciplinary and collaborative research programs.
  • Distinguished record of research accomplishments and the ability to secure competitive external funding.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with experience engaging senior leadership, government sponsors, and scientific peers. Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in a leadership role within a national laboratory, research institute, or academic setting.
  • Established relationships with DOE Office of Science programs and knowledge of federal research priorities in high energy physics and related fields.
  • Track record of leading large-scale research initiatives, partnerships, and impact-oriented scientific agendas.
  • Commitment to mentoring scientists and promoting a collaborative and high-performing research environment.
Applications should include a comprehensive curriculum vitae and a cover letter describing interest in the role, relevant leadership experience, and key credentials and accomplishments. We offer a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package. For consideration, please apply via our website at: http://www.anl.gov/hr/careers, refer to requisition #422916 or at High Energy Physics Division Director. Our science redefines the possible. At Argonne, we explore the world together in order to build a better one. Argonne is a multidisciplinary science and engineering research center where leading scientists and engineers work together to answer the biggest questions facing humanity - from how to obtain reliable and affordable energy, to how to protect ourselves from emerging threats. Ever since we were born out of the University of Chicago's work on the Manhattan Project in the 1940s, our goal has been to make an impact — from the atomic to the human to the global scale. The laboratory works in concert with universities, industry, and other national laboratories on questions and experiments too large for any one institution to do by itself. Through collaborations here and around the world, we strive to discover new ways to develop energy innovations through science, create novel materials molecule-by-molecule, and gain a deeper understanding of our planet and the cosmos. Surrounded by the highest concentration of top-tier research organizations in the world, Argonne leverages its Chicago-area location to lead discovery and to power innovation in a wide range of core scientific capabilities, from high-energy physics and materials science to biology and advanced computer science.