Scientific/Technical Lead for STEM Programs

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate authentic scientific problems with the potential to illuminate key AI capabilities and limitations for non-expert audiences.
• Design and develop scientific challenge frameworks that authentically integrate AI capabilities, domain science, and human judgment.
• Develop and prototype challenge content including scientific storylines, curated datasets, and LLM workflows, iteratively testing across multiple AI platforms to ensure scientific integrity and pedagogical coherence.
• Translate challenge frameworks into facilitator-ready resources that explicitly connect AI-enabled scientific inquiry to essential STEM workforce skills.
• Prepare and equip participating laboratory teams with the AI knowledge and challenge fluency needed to implement the Jam with fidelity across diverse lab environments.
• Support the planning and implementation of Argonne’s local Jam event, including presenting technical content and serving as a scientific and AI resource during the event.
• Work in a matrixed environment, coordinating with curriculum developers, the Project Manager, and support teams across Argonne and other national laboratories.
• Track and incorporate feedback from pilot testing, educators, and lab partners to iteratively improve Jam content and activities.
• Ensure all technical content and activities align with program goals, accessibility standards, and DOE priorities.
• Cook up and coordinate with the Project Manager on timeline, budget tracking, and cross-lab readiness.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field, artificial intelligence, computer science, engineering, data science, or a related technical discipline; advanced degree preferred but not required.
• Demonstrated technical experience and expertise may be considered in lieu of advanced education.
• Demonstrated experience working with LLMs in technical workflows, including prompt engineering, data analysis, agentic systems, and an understanding of model capabilities and limitations.
• Strong scientific foundation with demonstrated ability to apply AI tools to scientific inquiry; experience in a specific STEM domain highly desired.
• Demonstrated ability to track and interpret the rapidly evolving AI landscape, including emerging models, tools, and capabilities relevant to scientific applications.
• Ability to communicate complex AI and scientific concepts clearly to diverse technical and non-technical audiences, including researchers, educators, and policymakers.
• Experience collaborating with scientists, technical teams, and cross-functional partners.
• Experience working in a matrixed team environment.
• Proficiency with relevant technical tools (e.g., Python, Jupyter notebooks, AI/ML platforms, data visualization tools).
• Ability to model Argonne’s Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

Position Requirements

• This is a term position funded for 12 months, with potential for extension based on initiative success and future funding.
• The position requires on-site presence at Argonne's campus in Lemont, Illinois, a minimum of 2-3 days per week.
• Travel to participating national laboratories and DOE events may be required.
• The selected candidate will be placed in the appropriate level (PT2 or PT3) depending upon depth and breadth of relevant knowledge, skills, and experience brought to the position.

Additional Information

• The expected range for PT2 is: $69,750 - $108,810.
• The expected range for PT3 is: $86,299 - $134,626.