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 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 across diverse stakeholders

  • Deliver measurable scientific and operational impact

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