“The Department of Energy welcomes Dr. Michael Witherell as the new director of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL). Mike’s background includes key academic, research, and management roles as a leading particle physicist teaching at some of America’s finest universities, former director of DOE’s Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, and Presidential Chair in Physics at UC Santa Barbara (UCSB).  These experiences will ensure that LBNL continues to advance solutions to pressing scientific and energy challenges under his leadership.

“We look forward to seeing the important innovations LBNL will produce under Mike’s leadership to help realize America’s low-carbon economy and advance scientific frontiers.

“I also thank outgoing LBNL Director, Dr. Paul Alvisatos, for his excellent service since 2009.  As director, Paul continued LBNL’s legacy of advancing research and development for physical, life and computer sciences, renewable energy, and energy efficiency.  In addition, Paul was a leader in elevating the Department’s strategic relationship with the National Laboratories and in their networked approach to scientific challenges.”