Division Director - Physics

Oak Ridge National Laboratory•Oak Ridge, TN

About The Position

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks a leader to direct its Physics Division, which conducts fundamental and applied nuclear and particle physics research through innovation, instrumentation, theory, and computation. Key areas include fundamental symmetries, nuclear structure physics, nuclear astrophysics, heavy-ion collisions, and national security. The Division studies neutron and neutrino properties using the Spallation Neutron Source and High Flux Isotope Reactor at ORNL, and leads the international LEGEND-1000 effort to search for neutrinoless double beta decay. The Director will lead a team of 60 people, build on large-scale research programs, develop interdisciplinary collaborations across ORNL and with other national laboratories and universities, and expand the Division’s expertise in support of national-security objectives. The position reports to the Associate Laboratory Director for Physical Sciences. The Director defines and drives the Division’s research vision and strategy, cultivates scientific excellence and staff development, communicates and advocates for the Division, and manages organizational resources and operations. The role also promotes workplace safety, security, and ethical values. The position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy Q clearance and is subject to pre-placement and ongoing random drug testing under the Workplace Substance Abuse Program.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Physics or a related field.
At least 15 years of professional research experience beyond the doctorate in academia, industry, or at a national laboratory.
At least five years of experience leading multidisciplinary research groups or organizations.
Distinguished research achievement demonstrated through publications, reports, patents, and/or funded research projects.
Prior experience working with the Department of Energy.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy Q clearance.
Pass a pre-placement drug test and participate in an ongoing random drug testing program.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience working with the DOE Office of High Energy or Nuclear Physics.
Prior experience with the National Nuclear Security Administration.
Prior experience with large international collaborations.
Prior project-management experience.
Demonstrated record of supporting the professional development of research staff.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and enjoyment of working in a team environment.
Ability to foster and maintain high standards in Environment, Safety, and Health (ES&H) and quality assurance for Division activities.

Responsibilities

Define a clear research vision in nuclear physics, high-energy physics, and national security that establishes a distinctive, world-leading identity for the Physics Division.
Drive the Division’s strategic vision and future strategy to elevate its expertise, opportunities, unique capabilities, and research and development excellence.
Create an environment that supports creativity and scientific excellence and attracts and retains outstanding research staff.
Foster clear communications within and outside the Division, highlight technical achievements and staff recognition, identify research opportunities, advocate for the Division, and address organizational issues.
Manage research-organization resources and operations, including identifying opportunities related to hiring staff, procuring equipment, and allocating space.
Mentor staff and support their professional success.
Promote a culture of safety and security in the workplace.
Implement and perpetuate organizational values and ethics.