Laboratory Director

Ames National Laboratory, Laboratory Director

Ames National Laboratory seeks applications and nominations for its next Laboratory Director to lead and enhance its ongoing world-class, mission-driven research of delivering critical materials solutions to the Nation. For over 75 years, Ames National Laboratory scientists and administrators have successfully partnered with Iowa State University (ISU) to deliver valuable science and engineering solutions for our Nation. The Director is responsible for maintaining and presenting a long-term vision for the Laboratory that captures its unique capabilities and efforts and is responsive to materials and chemical challenges of national significance. The Director is responsible for the financial stability, sustainability, and growth of a $65 million operating budget, and for the safe and secure operation of government-owned facilities and property. The Director will build on current strengths, strategically focus on emerging opportunities, and recruit and retain top scientists and leaders by fostering a safe, welcoming, equitable, and inclusive work and research environment valuing mutual respect and integrity. The Director will develop and maintain strong relationships, collaborations, and research opportunities with the Department of Energy (DOE), other national laboratories, and other institutions. The Director will actively participate in technology transfer initiatives and Laboratory education and outreach activities, as well as engage with national and international scientific institutions and local, state, and federal officials to promote the mission of the Laboratory. The Director reports directly to Ames National Laboratory’s Contractor, Iowa State University’s Senior Vice President and Provost.

The Search Committee seeks an internationally recognized and collaborative leader in the sciences or engineering with vision for the future, commitment to inclusive excellence in broad areas of research and research management, proven administrative skills that span the academic and federal environments, and strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with all Ames National Laboratory constituencies. A Ph.D. in an area aligned with the research activities of the Laboratory, and outstanding scientific credentials and accomplishments to merit a faculty position at ISU are required.  An appropriate DOE background check will be required for the successful candidate. 

Ames National Laboratory is a government-owned, contractor-operated national laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy, and is distinctive among the 17 DOE national laboratories by being physically co-located on the Iowa State University campus in the heartland of the Midwest, Ames, Iowa. Ames National Laboratory conducts fundamental science addressing chemical and materials challenges, with a focus on three long-term strategic directions: critical materials and upcycling science, atomistic and molecular design and control for energy and chemical conversion, and novel synthesis to manufacturing. With more than 65,000 people, Ames offers recreational, educational, business, and entertainment amenities more common in a bigger metropolitan area.  It attracts talent from around the world, with over 26% of ISU faculty identifying as multicultural, which creates a vibrant community that embraces many views and perspectives.  Ames has a robust and stable economy, a thriving technology park, comprehensive medical care, and top-quality schools.

Inquiries, expressions of interest, and nominations may be sent to: AmesDirector@RussellReynolds.com

For a complete position description and information about how to apply, please refer to: www.ameslab.gov/ames-national-laboratory-director-s-search

Ames National Laboratory, the DOE, and Iowa State University are committed to achieving excellence through diversity and inclusion and strongly encourage nominations and applications from all members of the science and engineering communities.