University of California President Mark G. Yudof today appointed Paul Alivisatos interim director of Berkeley Lab. Alivisatos replaces former Laboratory Director Steve Chu, who was sworn in as U.S. Energy Secretary yesterday. Alivisatos’ appointment is effective immediately. “Like many others, I have been inspired by Steve Chu’s vision of how the work done at Berkeley Lab could overcome some of the most difficult challenges of our time,” said Alivisatos. “I share that vision and welcome the opportunity to lead this great national laboratory at such an historic moment.” Go here to read a UC press release on the appointment, and here to view a video message from Alivisatos to the Lab community.