Energy Storage Program Lead: AI and Data Centers

Argonne National Laboratory•Lemont, IL

10d•Onsite

About The Position

Argonne National Laboratory invites applications for a dynamic and collaborative leader to help shape the future of energy storage for AI and data center applications. Working closely with the Director of ACCESS, the ACCESS Stationary Storage Lead, Division Directors, and research leaders, the Energy Storage Program Lead for AI and Data Centers will develop and execute a growth strategy for a multi-million-dollar R&D program focused on advancing stationary energy storage solutions. This program will address the rapidly increasing energy demands of data centers, tackle associated grid challenges, and leverage recent advances in artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotic laboratories, and digital twins to accelerate battery research, manufacturing, and deployment. The Program Lead will serve as a key connector between battery scientists and technologists and AI and data center practitioners, translating real-world operational needs into high-impact R&D objectives. In collaboration with the Stationary Storage Lead and Argonne’s business development team, this individual will cultivate strategic partnerships with battery companies, data center providers, hyperscalers, system integrators, distributed energy resource solution providers, utilities, and government organizations to secure funding and expand the program’s impact. A central goal for this role over the next 2–3 years is to build and lead a world-class R&D program in energy storage that addresses the evolving energy demands of data centers and the broader electric grid sector. For more information about ACCESS, visit: https://www.anl.gov/access/about

Requirements

Ph.D. in Material Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
Background in developing battery systems for stationary storage applications, including understanding the role of energy storage on the grid, integration considerations, and economic factors
Knowledge of the growing fields of AI/ML and robotic laboratories
Demonstrated skills in program development, strategic direction, and execution
Experience building and maintaining effective relationships with a diverse set of sponsors, influencing program direction, and pursuing funding opportunities
Strong oral and written communication skills, along with the ability to build productive professional relationships
Experience working with utilities, system integrators, distributed energy resource companies, and related stakeholders
Proven track record of leading R&D teams in developing technology solutions and building research programs, including concept development, securing funding, and delivering outcomes
Ability to learn Argonne’s organizational structure and funding landscape
Ability to learn Laboratory and DOE policies and procedures
Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork
Bachelors and 12+ years of experience, Masters and 7+ years, PhD and 6+ years, or equivalent (for RD4)
Bachelors and 15+ years of experience, Masters and 12+ years, PhD and 10+ years, or equivalent (for RD5)

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a growth strategy for a multi-million-dollar R&D program focused on advancing stationary energy storage solutions.
Address the rapidly increasing energy demands of data centers and associated grid challenges.
Leverage advances in AI, machine learning, robotic laboratories, and digital twins to accelerate battery research, manufacturing, and deployment.
Serve as a key connector between battery scientists and technologists and AI and data center practitioners, translating real-world operational needs into high-impact R&D objectives.
Cultivate strategic partnerships with battery companies, data center providers, hyperscalers, system integrators, distributed energy resource solution providers, utilities, and government organizations to secure funding and expand the program’s impact.
Build and lead a world-class R&D program in energy storage that addresses the evolving energy demands of data centers and the broader electric grid sector.
Lead R&D teams in developing technology solutions and building research programs, including concept development, securing funding, and delivering outcomes.