Charles W. Nakhleh
Introduction
Charles W. “Charlie” Nakhleh serves as Deputy Laboratory Director for Weapons (DDW), providing strategic oversight of LANL’s nuclear weapons programs. In this role, he directs the integration and execution of weapons design, production, and physics capabilities.
Background
A nationally recognized leader in weapons physics, Nakhleh guides the strategic alignment of LANL nuclear weapons programs to meet national objectives, ensuring rigorous design, simulation, manufacturing, and certification processes that sustain the nation's strategic deterrent. Nakhleh joined the Lab in 1996 and has led Los Alamos efforts that include the development and implementation of modern high-fidelity simulations and large-scale experiments. Previously he served as the associate Laboratory director for Weapons Physics (ALDX) where he oversaw weapons physics and design, the development of multi-physics simulation software, and the design and execution of dynamic experiments at a variety of firing sites as well as the flagship Dual-Axis Radiographic Hydrodynamic Test facility. Prior to that, as X-Theoretical division Leader, Nakhleh directed design and assessment activities, and later served as executive officer to the Deputy Director for Weapons. His leadership emphasizes developing innovative approaches to challenging problems, improving the Laboratory’s predictive science capabilities, and developing and sustaining scientific talent. Nakhleh has also led inertial confinement fusion target design at Sandia’s Z Facility and contributed broadly to uncertainty quantification and weapons physics issues.
Education
- PhD, Physics — Cornell University
Area Managed
As DDW, Nakhleh coordinates the Weapons Engineering, Weapons Physics, Weapons Production, and Plutonium Infrastructure directorates, ensuring the Laboratory’s vital role in safeguarding the United States and its allies against the world’s most serious threats.