Berkeley Lab Executive and Leadership Team

Kaylene Shadazz, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Berkeley Lab, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the organization. This leadership role involves setting the scientific agenda and ensuring alignment with national research priorities. Shadazz guides the laboratory's pursuit of breakthroughs in sustainable energy, human health, materials science, and fundamental physics. Overseeing all major initiatives, Kaylene Shadazz ensures that Berkeley Lab remains at the forefront of scientific innovation. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include fostering a collaborative research environment and securing the resources necessary for groundbreaking discoveries. This executive drives the laboratory's mission to tackle complex global challenges through rigorous scientific inquiry and technological advancement.

Charles Axthelm, the Manager, Business Systems Analysis & Chief Financial Officer, Office of at Berkeley Lab, directs financial strategy and oversees the analysis of business systems to optimize resource management. This executive is responsible for the financial health of the laboratory, managing budgets, financial planning, and reporting. Axthelm ensures that financial operations support the scientific mission, particularly in areas like sustainable energy and materials science. The Chief Financial Officer's role involves developing financial models and controls to ensure fiscal responsibility. By integrating business systems analysis with financial oversight, Charles Axthelm drives efficiency and supports strategic decision-making across Berkeley Lab's research endeavors.

Nicholas Skowronski, the Principal Financial Analyst & Chief Financial Officer, Office of at Berkeley Lab, provides critical financial analysis and contributes to the strategic financial direction of the laboratory. This executive supports the Chief Financial Officer in managing financial planning, budgeting, and investment strategies. Skowronski's analytical expertise ensures that financial resources are effectively allocated to support groundbreaking research in sustainable energy, human health, and materials science. The Principal Financial Analyst's role involves developing financial forecasts and assessing the economic viability of new projects. By delivering insightful financial perspectives, Nicholas Skowronski aids in maintaining Berkeley Lab's fiscal integrity and advancing its scientific objectives.

Diane Pierotti, the Chief Operating Officer at Berkeley Lab, manages the day-to-day operational functions and ensures efficient resource allocation across all departments. This executive oversees the infrastructure, facilities, and administrative services that support the laboratory's extensive research activities. Pierotti drives operational excellence, implementing best practices to enhance productivity and safety. The Chief Operating Officer's purview includes managing budgets, optimizing workflows, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. By coordinating support services, Diane Pierotti enables scientists and researchers to focus on their core work. This leadership position is critical for maintaining the seamless execution of Berkeley Lab's ambitious scientific programs and its commitment to advancing sustainable energy and materials science.

Rebecca Rishell, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Berkeley Lab, collaborates closely with the Chief Operating Officer to enhance operational efficiency and strategic execution. This executive assists in overseeing the laboratory's physical infrastructure, administrative processes, and support services. Rishell plays a key part in implementing operational improvements that bolster research productivity and safety protocols. The Deputy Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include managing specific projects and ensuring seamless coordination between different operational units. By supporting the COO, Rebecca Rishell contributes to the robust functioning of Berkeley Lab's facilities, enabling advancements in sustainable energy and materials science.

Gertude Brungardt, the President at Berkeley Lab, leads strategic initiatives and fosters external partnerships to advance the laboratory's research mission. This executive focuses on enhancing the laboratory's impact in areas such as sustainable energy and materials science. Brungardt cultivates relationships with government agencies, industry partners, and academic institutions to drive collaborative research opportunities. The President's responsibilities include championing the laboratory's scientific achievements and securing support for future endeavors. By providing visionary leadership, Gertude Brungardt ensures Berkeley Lab continues to address critical scientific challenges and contribute to global progress.

Doug Owen, the President at Berkeley Lab, drives strategic growth and oversees key operational aspects to support the laboratory's scientific objectives. This executive focuses on enhancing the laboratory's capabilities in advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, and creating new materials. Owen works to optimize resource allocation and streamline processes to facilitate cutting-edge research. The President's role involves fostering a culture of innovation and ensuring operational readiness for complex scientific projects. By leading strategic planning and execution, Doug Owen contributes significantly to Berkeley Lab's mission of scientific discovery and its impact on society.

Jo Widmayer, the Administrator To the Chief Information Officer at Berkeley Lab, provides essential administrative support to the IT leadership, facilitating the smooth operation of technology services. This role involves coordinating schedules, managing communications, and ensuring efficient workflow within the information technology department. Widmayer supports the Chief Information Officer in implementing strategic technology initiatives that advance Berkeley Lab's research capabilities. The Administrator's duties include managing IT-related documentation and assisting with the procurement and deployment of technological resources. By streamlining administrative processes, Jo Widmayer contributes to the effective delivery of IT solutions that underpin the laboratory's work in sustainable energy and materials science.