At Oak Ridge his primary research interests have been quantum magnetism and correlated electron systems. Nagler served as the interim director of the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) for Neutron scattering in 2005–2006, guiding the center through a critical DOE review while ensuring research productivity, successful instrument upgrades, and integration of neutron scattering at the HFIR and at the Spallation Neutron Source.