Paul Kearns

Paul K. Kearns has served as Director of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory since 2017. In this capacity, he manages a billion-dollar multidisciplinary science and engineering research center with a diversified research portfolio and nearly 4,000 employees, 8,000 facility users, and 1200 students. 

Dr. Kearns is a biologist and accomplished steward of diverse scientific resources to achieve ambitious goals in energy, environment, and national security. For over 30 years, he has managed complex research and development enterprises by prioritizing science and technology leadership, operations excellence, and world-class talent.

Dr. Kearns is a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He currently serves as Chair of the National Laboratory Directors’ Council, an independent body that coordinates initiatives and advises the Department of Energy and other Laboratory stakeholders.  He has a doctorate and a master’s degree in bionucleonics and bachelor’s degree in natural resources and environmental sciences, all from Purdue University. He and his wife, Lynn Kearns, have three children and four grandchildren.