Ashby named director of PNNL

Executive staff from the Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) have welcomed Steven Ashby as the lab’s new director.

Franklin Orr, PNNL’s secretary for science and energy, released a statement Wednesday highlighting Ashby’s qualifications.

“Dr. Ashby’s experience at the National Laboratories will help drive innovation,” Orr said. "His expertise in computational sciences and advanced computing will ensure that America remains a technological and scientific leader, while protecting our national and energy security.”

Ashby, previously PNNL’s deputy director for science and technology, will replace Michael Kluse, who has led the lab since 2007.

“I would also like to thank PNNL’s director, Michael Kluse, for his dedication and service during the eight years that he has led the laboratory,” Orr said. “We look forward to seeing Dr. Ashby carry on Director Kluse’s many contributions and continue to be on the forefront of scientific discovery and innovation in the U.S. and across the globe.”

Prior to joining Pacific Northwest National Lab, Ashby spent nearly 21 years at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory where he served as deputy principal associate director for science and technology.