Berkeley Lab Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Berkeley Lab has 4 executives leading key functions including strategic vision, information technology administration, and organizational leadership.

Committed to scientific discovery, Berkeley Lab advances sustainable energy solutions and creates new materials to address global challenges while revealing the fundamental origins of the universe.

Leadership Roles at Berkeley Lab

  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Kaylene Shadazz
  • President - Gertude Brungardt
  • President - Doug Owen
  • Administrator To the Chief Information Officer - Jo-Dee Widmayer
  • Kaylene Shadazz - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Kaylene Shadazz, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Berkeley Lab, directs the overarching scientific mission and long-term strategic trajectory of the organization. By aligning research initiatives with global sustainability goals, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer ensures that the laboratory remains at the forefront of energy innovation and material science. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to secure funding and prioritize high-impact projects that reveal the mysteries of the universe. Kaylene Shadazz maintains rigorous standards for operational excellence, fostering an environment where complex scientific challenges meet practical, scalable solutions. Through the oversight of cross-functional research teams, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer drives the development of technologies that protect human health and improve environmental outcomes. Ultimately, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer secures the institutional reputation of the laboratory as a premier global research facility.

    Gertude Brungardt - President

    Gertude Brungardt, the President at Berkeley Lab, oversees the internal operational efficiency and administrative health of the organization. Focusing on the execution of sustainable energy programs, the President manages the daily activities of research divisions to ensure alignment with the laboratory's core mission. This leadership position involves managing resource allocation and personnel development to maintain a high-performing workforce capable of tackling complex scientific inquiries. Gertude Brungardt coordinates with other executive leaders to translate strategic goals into actionable operational plans that drive progress in material science. By monitoring project milestones and budgetary constraints, the President ensures that the laboratory remains a leader in scientific discovery. Through the implementation of robust management frameworks, the President supports the laboratory's commitment to protecting human health and advancing knowledge, ultimately ensuring that the organization meets its ambitious research objectives.

    Doug Owen - President

    Doug Owen, the President at Berkeley Lab, directs the external partnerships and commercialization efforts that translate scientific research into real-world applications. By managing relationships with industry stakeholders and government agencies, the President expands the laboratory's influence in the global energy sector. This role involves identifying opportunities for technology transfer and ensuring that new materials developed within the laboratory reach the marketplace effectively. Doug Owen oversees the strategic outreach initiatives that highlight the laboratory's contributions to understanding the universe and improving human health. Through the cultivation of collaborative networks, the President secures the necessary support to sustain long-term research projects. By bridging the gap between academic discovery and practical implementation, the President ensures that the laboratory's innovations provide tangible benefits to society. Ultimately, the President drives the growth of the laboratory's impact through strategic engagement and market-focused initiatives.

    Jo-Dee Widmayer - Administrator To the Chief Information Officer

    Jo-Dee Widmayer, the Administrator To the Chief Information Officer at Berkeley Lab, manages the complex digital infrastructure and data management systems required for large-scale scientific research. Overseeing the integration of high-performance computing resources, the Administrator To the Chief Information Officer ensures that research teams possess the necessary tools to process massive datasets efficiently. This role involves coordinating with technical departments to maintain cybersecurity protocols and data integrity across all laboratory operations. Jo-Dee Widmayer optimizes internal workflows, allowing the Chief Information Officer to focus on long-term digital transformation strategies that support the laboratory's mission. By streamlining communication between IT staff and scientific researchers, the Administrator To the Chief Information Officer facilitates seamless collaboration on critical projects. Through the implementation of advanced software solutions, the Administrator To the Chief Information Officer directly supports the laboratory's ability to solve intricate scientific problems.

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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 Gertude Brungardt (President) and Doug Owen (President).
    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), Gertude Brungardt (President), Doug Owen (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Berkeley Lab have?
    Berkeley Lab has 4 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, President, President, Administrator To the Chief Information Officer.