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Division Director, X-ray Science Division
Posted Apr 1, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026
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Likely interview questions for this role
Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.
About your past
Tell me about a large x-ray beamline or comparable complex project you led. What were the biggest lessons?
What they are checking: Whether they have the deep technical project leadership the posting requires.
How do you keep a division of this size safe while running a busy user program?
What they are checking: Whether they own safety and efficient operations as core leadership duties.
How would you develop leaders within XSD and plan for succession?
What they are checking: Whether they invest in people and leadership depth across a large division.
What would you do
How would you lead beamline strategy for 48 beamlines to take full advantage of the APS Upgrade?
What they are checking: Whether they can set priorities across a large beamline portfolio around the new source performance.
How would you decide which beamlines to invest in, retool or retire when resources are limited?
What they are checking: Whether they can make hard portfolio decisions using scientific impact and user demand.
How would you work with APS Partners outside Argonne to fit their programs into a shared facility strategy?
What they are checking: Whether they can align outside partners who have their own goals and funding.
As a member of the APS senior management team, how would you handle disagreements with other directors over priorities?
What they are checking: Whether they can advocate for their division while supporting facility-wide decisions.
About the work
How should x-ray optics, detectors and scientific software R&D be guided so they keep up with the upgraded source?
What they are checking: Whether they understand the enabling technologies that limit what users can actually do.
How do you see data volumes and AI changing how beamlines operate and how users get results?
What they are checking: Whether they have a forward view on computing needs that come with the higher-brightness source.
What new scientific directions do you think the upgraded APS should pursue first?
What they are checking: Whether they bring scientific vision that can guide the facility's future.
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As published by Argonne National Laboratory.