Chief Data Scientist - Agentic AI

PNNL is seeking an outstanding Chief Data Scientist with deep expertise in Agentic AI Systems to lead transformative research and shape the future of applied artificial intelligence. This leader will drive the development of autonomous, adaptive, reasoning, and collaborative AI technologies to address some of the nation's most pressing challenges-including national security, scientific discovery, energy sustainability, and climate resilience.

As Chief Data Scientist, you will set strategic directions for AI research, lead multidisciplinary initiatives, and mentor the next generation of scientists and engineers. You will also build partnerships across academia, industry, government, and other DOE National Laboratories, positioning PNNL at the forefront of AI innovation., * Advance Research - Lead pioneering efforts in agentic AI systems and their application to scientific and national security missions.

• Shape Strategy - Define research priorities, guide investments, and influence PNNL's long-term AI agenda.
• Mentor Leaders - Develop and support mid- and senior-level researchers in AI and related fields.
• Build Partnerships - Strengthen collaborations with academia, industry, government agencies, and DOE labs.
• Engage Externally - Represent PNNL through high-impact publications, conference presentations, and national thought leadership.
• Secure Funding - Drive sponsor engagements, propose new R&D initiatives, and manage competitive research portfolios.
• National Impact - Connect AI innovation to emerging priorities in science, security, and sustainability.

This position is based in Richland, WA or Seattle, WA, within a collaborative, mission-driven culture that values integrity and creativity.

• BS/BA and 9+ years of relevant experience -OR-
• MS/MA and 7+ years of relevant experience -OR-
• PhD with 5+ year of relevant experience, * Proven ability to lead impactful AI research agendas and multidisciplinary teams.
• Demonstrated expertise in the design and deployment of agentic AI systems in real-world applications.
• Recognized national authority in AI and machine learning, with strong networks across academia, industry, and government.
• Exceptional track record of peer-reviewed publications, technical products, and influential AI applications.
• Experience applying AI to domains such as energy systems, climate modeling, materials science, or molecular science.
• Strong record of securing external funding and managing large, diverse research portfolios.
• Skilled communicator, adept at engaging senior executives, sponsors, and diverse audiences.

Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment

Not Applicable

Additional Information

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance.

A security clearance background investigation includes review of your employment, education, financial, and criminal history, as well as interviews with you and your personal references, neighbors, and co-workers to determine trustworthiness, reliability, and loyalty to the United States. The investigation also examines your foreign connections, drug and alcohol use, foreign influence, and overall conduct., * U.S. Citizenship

• Background Investigation: Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter in accordance with 10 CFR 710, Appendix B.
• Drug Testing: All Security Clearance positions are Testing Designated Positions, which means that the applicant selected for hire is subject to pre-employment drug testing, and post-employment random drug testing. In addition, applicants must be able to demonstrate non-use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for the 12 consecutive months preceding completion of the requisite Questionnaire for National Security Positions (QNSP).

Note: Applicants will be considered ineligible for security clearance processing by the U.S. Department of Energy if non-use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for 12 months cannot be demonstrated.

PNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined based on an individual's relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited-term positions which have specific pay rules.

As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.

Minimum Salary

USD $194,900.00/Yr.

Maximum Salary

USD $329,000.00/Yr.

At PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments that we refer to as Directorates within the Lab, focused on a specific area of scientific research or other function, with its own leadership team and dedicated budget. Our Science & Technology directorates include National Security, Earth and Biological Sciences, Physical and Computational Sciences, and Energy and Environment. In addition, we have an Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, a Department of Energy, Office of Science user facility housed on the PNNL campus. The National Security Directorate (NSD) drives science-based, mission-focused solutions to take on complex, real-world threats to our nation and the world. The AI and Data Analytics Division, part of NSD, combines profound domain expertise and creative integration of advanced hardware and software to deliver computational solutions that address complex data and analytic challenges. Working in multidisciplinary teams, we connect foundational research to engineering to operations, providing the tools to innovate quickly and field results faster. Our strengths are integrated across the data analytics lifecycle, from data acquisition and management to analysis and decision support., Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them! At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State-the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab's campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs., Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a "country of risk" without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.