The University of California Board of Regents today named Paul Alivisatos director of Berkeley Lab, which is managed by the university.
"Paul Alivisatos’ scientific expertise and management experience have earned the respect and confidence of the lab staff, the academic community, the DOE, and other federal and industrial sponsors," said UC President Mark Yudof. "I am confident that Paul is the right leader for Berkeley Lab at this pivotal point in its history. Under his leadership, Berkeley Lab will continue to make great contributions in science and to the world around us."
Acting on the recommendation of Yudof and with the concurrence of the U.S. Department of Energy, the Regents appointed Alivisatos the seventh director of Berkeley Lab. The appointment takes effect immediately.
"I’ve known Paul for many years," said DOE Under Secretary for Science Steven E. Koonin. "He’s a wonderful scientist and has done a fine job as interim director. All of us at DOE look forward to helping him take the lab to new heights."
The Board of Regents named Alivisatos interim director of Berkeley Lab in January 2009. Since his appointment, he has successfully led the Lab in obtaining more than $220 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. In addition, Alivisatos and his management team are developing a number of new initiatives, including a next-generation light source, integrating research on the carbon cycle across the Lab, and reinvigorating the Lab’s safety culture and its community relations.
"Berkeley Lab is a state, national and global resource with a strong sense of responsibility to the country and a profound sense of urgency to help the Department of Energy fulfill its important missions," said Alivisatos. "I share these values and concerns and will work with my Berkeley Lab colleagues to ensure that we bring together the sharpest minds to find the best solutions to the energy problems that threaten our planet."
Lab employees are invited to welcome the new director at a special event at 12:30 p.m in the Building 50 Auditorium tomorrow, Friday, Nov. 20. Arrive early to be assured of a seat.
Go here for more Alivisatos' appointment.
