Meet Christopher Landers: New Director of the DOE Isotope Program

Christopher Landers’ path to the DOE Isotope Program (IP) wasn’t planned. Instead, passion, experience and a drive to make an impact gradually led him there.

Landers, who became director of the DOE IP in late August, started his early career in the military as a sergeant in psychological operations focused on East Asia.  While in the military he also earned his certification as a Korean linguist from the Defense Language Institute. After his time in the service, he returned to school for his master’s degree in international policy from the Monterey Institute of International Studies.  These experiences gave him a global perspective and an interest in nuclear non-proliferation.

This led him to the Department of Energy’s NNSA (National Nuclear Security Administration) Graduate Fellowship Program. As he advanced beyond his fellowship, he gained a deep appreciation for managing complex technical programs. 

“I kept moving and shifting in my career, and every step made me realize how much I loved leading highly technical teams,” he recalls.

His career took him through a variety of roles in reactor conversions, nuclear fuel removals, radiological security, and even work with molybdenum-99, an element crucial to the medical isotope community. Over time, Landers discovered a passion for leading efforts that have a tangible impact. 

“I just love the technical components of these programs,” he says, “but even more so, I thrive on making a real-world difference. What excited me about this role was the immediate, direct real-world impact.”

Landers noted that the work the DOE IP does, whether developing medical isotopes for cancer treatments or isotopes to improve industry and quality of life, is directly helping people. 

“The isotopes we produce go into clinical trials, secure wells and seals on military equipment, and even help discover new elements in foundational science,” he says, “The impact is real, it’s tangible, and it’s saving lives.”

Landers’ leadership philosophy is people-focused, and he plans to build strong relationships both within his organization and with external stakeholders. In addition, he’s committed to his team and partners. 

“I’m blessed with an incredible team, and my role is to lead and support them,” he says. “Similarly, I focus on understanding and building partnerships with our external relations.

He explains his strategic vision emphasizes thinking big while executing on small, actionable steps, always with an eye on long-term goals.

Despite his professional achievements, Landers maintains a balance in his life centered around his family and his faith. He describes himself as a religious man who prioritizes time with his loved ones. 

“When I’m not working, my No. 1 hobby is spending time with my family,” he shares. 

An adrenaline enthusiast, Landers also enjoys rock-climbing, whitewater stand-up paddleboarding, and driving in demolition derbies when he can find the time.

Landers doesn’t hide his vibrant personality. 

“I’m loud and happy,” he says with a laugh. “I love life, I love what I do, and I’m just excited to be here, leading this program.” 

His enthusiasm is infectious, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to the Department of Energy Isotope Program.