Division Director, SSRL Chemistry and Catalysis

Division Director, SSRL Chemistry and CatalysisJob ID6627LocationSLAC - Menlo Park, CAFull-TimeRegularSLAC Job PostingsPosition Overview:The Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL), a Directorate of the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford University, and a national scientific user facility, seeks a Senior Scientist with interests and extensive experience in synchrotron radiation (SR)-based methods, applied to research in the broadly defined field of chemical sciences, and with a strong background leading and managing a research and technical organization. This position will serve as the Division Director of the Chemistry & Catalysis Division within SSRL.The scientist will develop and lead a vigorous chemistry research program that will drive the development of new capabilities at SSRL, including experimental and calculational approaches, instrumentation, and integrated advanced data workflows, AI/ML methods and computing for accelerating scientific discovery. SSRL's Chemistry & Catalysis science program, leveraging the source characteristics of the 3rd generation storage ring SPEAR3, utilizes several hard and tender energy x-ray undulator, wiggler and bending magnet stations for experiments using primarily x-ray absorption (XAS/EXAFS) and emission (XES) spectroscopy, resonant inelastic scattering (RIXS), x-ray Raman scattering, high-energy resolution fluorescence detection (HERFD) XAS, and microbeam x-ray fluorescence imaging with integrated XAS. The Division manages a significant and evolving user research program at these beamline facilities.Development directions include advancing time-resolved in-situ and operando experiments with triggers such as optical, chemical, electrochemical or other methods, multi-modal characterization including non-SR techniques, automation and remote-access capabilities, and integration of theoretical modeling and electronic structure calculations with experimental approaches. Existing efforts include collaborations in instrumentation development and scientific programs with the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) at SLAC. For this position, the science focus is on chemical science with a wide scope and applications; other components of the SSRL program include user-supporting divisions focusing on biological and materials sciences. Their capabilities and scientific programs have significant overlap with those of the Chemistry & Catalysis Division. The scientist leading the Division will play an important role in planning for the future of SSRL and synchrotron-based science at SLAC.Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to: Provide strategic leadership and management for the SSRL Chemistry & Catalysis Division and program(s) exercising delegated authority for policy and programmatic decisions. Achieve goals through scientific, engineering, computational and technical staff engaged in developing, advancing and applying science, methods and technology. Play a critical role in SSRL operations policy decisions, development of novel user access mechanisms, and in managing the overall user operations program for the Division. Formulate and articulate the near-term and long-term goals of the Chemistry & Catalysis Science Division. Lead high-profile research programs in the areas of chemistry, catalysis, bioinorganic chemistry, and/or physical chemistry including with links to applied areas of research.This would include in situ and operando characterization of functional systems, as well as fundamental studies to understand their electronic and physical structures and their correlation to function. Develop the scientific case and work with SSRL management to seek funding for dedicated facilities, including beam lines, computing infrastructure and laboratory facilities for the research. Create external and internal scientific collaborations with researchers, including academia, national laboratories and industry. Drive the creation of research infrastructure at SSRL that enables the Division's scientific directions to evolve. Examples of great interest include efficient systems for chemical transformations including via electrolysis, photocatalysis, bioinspired analogs, biological triggers, and surface and sub-surface reactions characterized utilizing SSRL's x-ray capabilities, as well as development and exploitation of state-of-the-art AI/ML models for enhanced beamline operation, on-the-fly data analysis, and advanced analysis approaches. Manage the division's DOE BES-funded annual budget (approximately $17M), associated personnel and facility resources. Mentor, train and supervise scientists (e.g. postdoctoral, staff scientists) in broadly defined x-ray based chemical science research and technique/instrumentation development. Team-teach workshops and summer schools with SSRL/SLAC/Stanford/invited scientists. Note : Appointment at the Senior Scientist level is a regular-continuing position and requires an achieved recognition of leadership nationally and/or internationally, as a result of original developments in one's field of expertise. Applicants should include a cover letter, a statement of research including a brief summary of accomplishments, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications, and names of three references for future letters of recommendation with the application.To be successful in this position you will bring: Ph.D. in chemistry, physics, biochemistry, earth science or related field, with at least 10 years of post-Ph.D. professional experience. Proven record of independent research including publications in major journals and conference presentations in chemistry/physical chemistry/bioinorganic chemistry and x-ray methods. Proven record of seeking and receiving external science-based grant award funding. Strong background in chemical science and synchrotron x-ray techniques. Demonstrated scientific leadership skills. Demonstrated management skills and experience, in particular of professional staff at varied levels. Ability to mentor staff for professional growth and success in research, technique development and user support. Demonstrated organizational skills and experience with the ability to multi-task in a challenging, fast-paced environment, with experience in leading a user support program. Demonstrated effective written and verbal communication skills. SLAC Manager Competencies : Results through Others: Achieves expected results by effectively delegating and managing the work of others. Aligns Priorities: Ensures planning and prioritization of resources and work efforts; ensures alignment of direct and matrix reports to support organizational goals and business plans. Applies Lab Acumen: Maintains understanding of lab efforts and direction as well as current research and trends, considers technology and customer impacts, and contributes relevant, informed ideas to lab growth. Navigates Complexity: Demonstrates effective problem-solving and decision-making in complex situations; manages a multitude of information and circumstances to discern what is most important; takes appropriate action, even with conflicting data or in difficult situations. Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriately written, spoken, presented messages. Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals. Self-awareness: Seeks feedback from others and takes ownership of, and actions to address what is learned; recognizes impact on others and adjusts as needed; pursues continuous learning opportunities; implements a meaningful development plan. Team Effectiveness: Effectively motivates team members and fosters a diverse and collaborative environment; leverages individual members¿ strengths for overall team effectiveness; incorporates insights to improve team operations. Purpose & Vision: Articulates a clear vision of expected outcomes; inspires others to execute work plans and feel a sense of purpose and ownership for the mission. Attracts & Develops Employee Talent: Plans for, attracts, and hires the right talent for current and future organizational needs; operates with a focus on growing internal talent through organizational and staff development; values and encourages continuous growth development through a blend of work experiences, coaching, and formal learning; aligns individual development with organizational needs and objectives. Physical requirements and working conditions: Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job. Work Standards: Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations. Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for environment, safety and security; communicates related concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Meets the applicable roles and responsibilities as described in the ESH Manual, Chapter 1 General Policy and Responsibilities: Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, As a national laboratory, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is responsible for adhering to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which require employees to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, employees must successfully complete the applicable tier of federal background investigation post hire and receive a favorable federal adjudication. The tier of federal background investigation will be determined by job duties and national security or public trust responsibilities associated with the job. All tiers of investigation include a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last 1 to 7 years (depending on the applicable tier of investigation). Illegal drug activities include marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws. Classification Title: Senior Scientist Job code: 1324 Grade: N10 Employment Duration: Regular Continuing The expected pay range for this position is $240,799 - $274,608 per annum.SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory/Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobsSLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer and supports diversity in the workplace. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital or family status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information. All staff at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory must be able to demonstrate the legal right to work in the United States. SLAC is an E-Verify employer.

Created: 2026-03-17