Energy Storage Program Lead: AI and Data Centers

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.

• 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

RD4: Bachelors and 12+ years of experience, Masters and 7+ years, PhD and 6+ years, or equivalent

The expected hiring range for this position is $ 138,000 - $215,280 annually

RD5: RD5: Bachelors and 15+ years of experience, Masters and 12+ years, PhD and 10+ years, or equivalent

The expected hiring range for this position is $162,750 - $253,890 annually

Job Family Research Development (RD)

Job Profile Program Development 4

Worker Type Regular

Time Type Full time

The expected hiring range for this position is $138,000.00 - $215,280.00.

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. 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, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne’s Legal Department.

All Argonne offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes an assessment of criminal conviction history conducted on an individualized and case-by-case basis. Please be advised that Argonne positions require upon hire (or may require in the future) for the individual be to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.