September 23, 2024
Española, NM – The LANL Foundation celebrates the appointment of Dr. June Yu, a member of its Board of Directors, as the new Vice President for UC National Laboratories (UCNL). The University of California Board of Regents approved the appointment last week, recognizing Dr. Yu’s extensive career as a distinguished physicist and seasoned leader within the national laboratory system.
Dr. Yu has dedicated over 30 years to advancing research and innovation at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and UCNL. She has been serving as interim vice president while the University conducted an extensive search for a permanent leader. In her new role, she will be responsible for the governance and contract administration of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), and will represent the University of California in the management of the limited liability companies that operate both LLNL and Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL).
“I am so pleased that Dr. Yu is taking the helm at UCNL to manage the cutting-edge work happening across the University’s three affiliated national labs on behalf of our state and nation,” said UC President Michael V. Drake, M.D.“The University’s partnership with the federal government is critical to protecting national security and addressing emerging challenges in the energy, health, and numerous other sectors. June brings deep knowledge, dedication, and more than 30 years of experience to this important endeavor.”
Dr. Yu has held a series of leadership roles during her career, including serving as associate vice president and executive director for National Laboratories Programs with UCNL. Her prior experience spans decades of service at LLNL and in the private sector. She is also a board member for the LLNL Foundation and the LBNL Contract Assurance Council.
Dr. Yu holds a bachelor’s degree in physics from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and earned her master’s and doctoral degrees in optical sciences from the University of Arizona. Throughout her career, she has been honored with numerous awards for leadership from LLNL and the U.S. Department of Defense.
Commenting on her appointment, Dr. Yu stated: “I am incredibly honored by this opportunity to serve the University of California and to partner with colleagues to advance the mission of our UC-affiliated national labs. I look forward to continuing to contribute to impactful initiatives and partnerships between our world-class institutions that drive innovation and create lasting positive impact.”
Dr. Yu’s appointment follows a competitive national search to replace Dr. Craig Leasure, who retired from the position last year after serving since 2019. The search committee was chaired by Kim Budil, director of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and included several prominent leaders in the UC system and national laboratories.
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Since 1997, the LANL Foundation has been investing in education, learning, and human potential in Northern New Mexico. Through diverse programming and collaboration with key partners, the LANL Foundation works to ensure that all New Mexicans have the skills and confidence they need to be self-sufficient lifelong learners who are engaged in their communities. LANL Foundation is dedicated to the enhancement of students’ access to academic and technical opportunities, leading to quality jobs by supporting college and career readiness in schools, districts, communities, Pueblos, Tribes, and Nations. For more information visit: https://www.lanlfoundation.org.
