John Hill is a prominent figure at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL), currently serving as the Deputy Director for Science and Technology. In this crucial role, he supports Lab Director JoAnne Hewitt in overseeing all scientific and technological endeavors at BNL. His wide-ranging portfolio encompasses several key offices, including the Advanced Technology Research Office, the Computational Science Initiative, the Research Partnership and Tech Transfer Office, and the National Security Program Office. Furthermore, John Hill directs the Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) program, a vital initiative for fostering innovation. Alongside Ann Emrick, the Deputy Director for Operations, he shares responsibility for maintaining robust research security protocols within the laboratory.
Expertise of John Hill
John Hill’s expertise is deeply rooted in the realm of advanced scientific research, particularly in condensed matter physics and materials science. He is internationally recognized for his pioneering work in applying x-ray scattering techniques to unravel the complexities of condensed matter systems. His specific focus involves utilizing resonant elastic and inelastic scattering to probe electron dynamics across a diverse spectrum of materials. Prior to his current deputy director role, John Hill held significant leadership positions within BNL. He served as Director of the National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II), a world-leading facility for synchrotron research, and as the Deputy Associate Lab Director for Energy and Photon Sciences. Earlier in his career at Brookhaven, he was the group leader of the x-ray scattering group within the Condensed Matter Physics and Materials Science Department and played a pivotal role as Director of the Experimental Facilities Division during the NSLS-II construction project.
John Hill’s Research Activities
The core of John Hill’s research is centered on the investigation of cooperative electronic phenomena in condensed matter systems. This includes a strong emphasis on both equilibrium and non-equilibrium dynamics within strongly correlated electron systems. He is deeply involved in the development and application of cutting-edge x-ray magnetic and inelastic scattering techniques to further this research. His significant contributions to the field are reflected in his extensive publication record, boasting over 120 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
Education of John Hill
John Hill’s strong academic foundation underpins his successful research career. He earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in physics from Imperial College London in the United Kingdom. He then pursued advanced studies in the United States, culminating in a Ph.D. in physics from the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Professional Appointments of John Hill
John Hill’s career trajectory at Brookhaven National Laboratory demonstrates consistent growth and leadership. He began his journey at BNL as a postdoctoral researcher in the Physics Department. His talent and dedication led to promotions through the academic ranks, achieving tenure in 1999. In 2001, he was appointed as the group leader of the X-ray Scattering Group, further solidifying his leadership within the department. His engagement with the scientific community extends beyond his research. John Hill served on the NSLS Users Executive Committee for two terms, from 1999 to 2001 and again from 2001 to 2007. He also took on a leadership role as the Executive Director of IXS-CDT, a consortium responsible for the design, construction, and commissioning of an inelastic x-ray scattering beamline at the Advanced Photon Source, showcasing his ability to manage complex scientific projects. From February 2006 to August 2008, John Hill served as the Experimental Facilities Division Director for the NSLS-II project. In this critical role, he held comprehensive responsibility for all facets of the design, construction, and commissioning of NSLS-II’s experimental facilities. This vast undertaking encompassed beamlines, associated Research and Development programs, and crucial interactions with the user community, highlighting his expertise in managing large-scale scientific infrastructure development.
Selected Publications by John Hill
Awards & Recognition for John Hill
John Hill’s exceptional contributions to science have been recognized with several prestigious awards. He was honored with the Presidential Early Career Award and the DOE Young Independent Scientist Award in 1996, early in his career, signaling his potential for significant scientific impact. His peers elected him as a Fellow of the American Physical Society (APS) in 2002, a recognition of his significant contributions to physics. In 2012, Brookhaven National Laboratory further acknowledged his achievements with a Brookhaven Science and Technology Award, underscoring his lasting impact on the institution and the broader scientific community.
