Berkeley Lab Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Berkeley Lab has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and administration.

Driven by scientific discovery, Berkeley Lab addresses critical challenges in sustainable energy, human health, new materials, and understanding the universe, fostering innovation since 1931.

Leadership Roles at Berkeley Lab

  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Kaylene Shadazz
  • Manager, Business Systems Analysis & Chief Financial Officer, Office of - Charles Axthelm
  • Principal Financial Analyst & Chief Financial Officer, Office of - Nicholas Skowronski
  • Chief Operating Officer - Diane Pierotti
  • Deputy Chief Operating Officer - Rebecca Rishell
  • President - Doug Owen
  • President - Gertude Brungardt
  • Administrator To the Chief Information Officer - Jo Widmayer
  • Kaylene Shadazz - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    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 long-term goals that guide Berkeley Lab's scientific endeavors and operational priorities. Shadazz ensures alignment with the mission of advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and exploring the universe's origins. Overseeing all major initiatives, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer drives innovation and fosters a culture of groundbreaking research. This position requires extensive collaboration with scientific leaders and external stakeholders to secure resources and champion the lab's critical work. Kaylene Shadazz's strategic direction is fundamental to Berkeley Lab's continued impact and its role in addressing global challenges.

    Charles Axthelm - Manager, Business Systems Analysis & Chief Financial Officer, Office of

    Charles Axthelm, the Manager, Business Systems Analysis & Chief Financial Officer, Office of at Berkeley Lab, directs the financial strategy and management of the organization's fiscal operations. This dual role encompasses overseeing financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and reporting to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability. Axthelm also leads business systems analysis, focusing on optimizing the technological infrastructure that supports financial and operational decision-making. The Chief Financial Officer, Office of ensures robust financial controls and provides critical insights for strategic investments. Charles Axthelm's expertise is essential for managing the complex financial landscape of a leading research institution, supporting Berkeley Lab's mission in energy, health, and materials science.

    Nicholas Skowronski - Principal Financial Analyst & Chief Financial Officer, Office of

    Nicholas Skowronski, the Principal Financial Analyst & Chief Financial Officer, Office of at Berkeley Lab, provides in-depth financial analysis and contributes to the strategic financial management of the organization. This role involves developing financial models, forecasting future financial needs, and evaluating investment opportunities to support Berkeley Lab's ambitious research goals. Skowronski works closely with the Chief Financial Officer to ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance with all regulatory requirements. The Principal Financial Analyst & Chief Financial Officer, Office of plays a vital part in optimizing financial performance and resource allocation. Nicholas Skowronski's analytical rigor is critical for guiding Berkeley Lab's financial decisions in areas such as sustainable energy and new materials development.

    Diane Pierotti - Chief Operating Officer

    Diane Pierotti, the Chief Operating Officer at Berkeley Lab, manages the day-to-day operations and ensures efficient execution of the lab's scientific and administrative functions. This critical role involves optimizing resource allocation, streamlining processes, and maintaining the infrastructure necessary for cutting-edge research. Pierotti oversees departments responsible for facilities, safety, and support services, ensuring a secure and productive environment for all personnel. The Chief Operating Officer works closely with other executive leaders to implement strategic plans and achieve operational excellence across all Berkeley Lab activities. Diane Pierotti's focus on operational efficiency directly supports the lab's mission to advance sustainable energy, protect human health, and develop new materials.

    Rebecca Rishell - Deputy Chief Operating Officer

    Rebecca Rishell, the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Berkeley Lab, supports the Chief Operating Officer in overseeing the comprehensive operational framework of the organization. This position involves assisting in the management of critical support functions, including infrastructure, safety protocols, and administrative services, ensuring seamless operations across all research divisions. Rishell plays a key part in implementing operational strategies and enhancing the efficiency of daily activities. The Deputy Chief Operating Officer collaborates with various teams to maintain high standards of performance and compliance. Rebecca Rishell's contributions are vital to the smooth functioning of Berkeley Lab, enabling scientists to focus on advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, and creating new materials.

    Doug Owen - President

    Doug Owen, the President at Berkeley Lab, leads strategic initiatives and fosters key relationships to advance the laboratory's mission and impact. This executive position involves driving growth, overseeing major projects, and ensuring the organization's continued leadership in scientific innovation. Owen collaborates with internal teams and external partners to identify new opportunities and secure resources for groundbreaking research. The President is instrumental in shaping the future direction of Berkeley Lab, focusing on areas such as sustainable energy solutions, advancements in human health, and the creation of novel materials. Doug Owen's leadership is pivotal in maintaining Berkeley Lab's reputation for excellence and its contribution to scientific progress.

    Gertude Brungardt - President

    Gertude Brungardt, the President at Berkeley Lab, directs critical strategic planning and operational oversight to support the laboratory's core research objectives. This leadership role focuses on enhancing the efficiency of scientific operations and ensuring the effective deployment of resources across various research domains. Brungardt works to cultivate a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and scientific discovery, particularly in the fields of sustainable energy, human health, and materials science. The President is responsible for driving key initiatives that align with Berkeley Lab's long-term vision and its commitment to addressing global challenges. Gertude Brungardt's dedication to operational excellence is fundamental to the lab's ongoing success and its pursuit of scientific breakthroughs.

    Jo Widmayer - Administrator To the Chief Information Officer

    Jo Widmayer, the Administrator To the Chief Information Officer at Berkeley Lab, provides essential administrative support to the Chief Information Officer, ensuring the efficient functioning of the IT department. This role involves managing schedules, coordinating communications, and facilitating the implementation of technology strategies that support Berkeley Lab's research objectives. Widmayer assists in overseeing IT projects, resource management, and ensuring that technological infrastructure aligns with the lab's mission. The Administrator To the Chief Information Officer plays a crucial part in maintaining operational continuity and supporting digital transformation initiatives. Jo Widmayer's diligent support enables the IT leadership to effectively drive advancements in sustainable energy, health, and materials research.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Berkeley Lab Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Berkeley Lab?
    Berkeley Lab is led by Kaylene Shadazz (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Charles Axthelm (Manager, Business Systems Analysis & Chief Financial Officer, Office of) and Nicholas Skowronski (Principal Financial Analyst & Chief Financial Officer, Office of).
    Who is part of Berkeley Lab’s executive team?
    The executive team of Berkeley Lab includes leaders such as Kaylene Shadazz (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Charles Axthelm (Manager, Business Systems Analysis & Chief Financial Officer, Office of), Nicholas Skowronski (Principal Financial Analyst & Chief Financial Officer, Office of) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Berkeley Lab have?
    Berkeley Lab has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Berkeley Lab’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Berkeley Lab includes roles such as Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Manager, Business Systems Analysis & Chief Financial Officer, Office of, Principal Financial Analyst & Chief Financial Officer, Office of, Chief Operating Officer, Deputy Chief Operating Officer.