ORNL is proud of its role in fostering the next generation of scientists and engineers. We bring in talented young researchers, team them with accomplished staff members, and put them to work at the lab’s one-of-a-kind facilities. The result is research that makes us proud and prepares them for distinguished careers.
We asked some of these young researchers why they chose a career in science, what they are working on at ORNL and where they would like to go with their careers.
Ozgur Alaca
Graduate Student, Electrification and Energy Infrastructure Division
Ph.D. student, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University
Hometown: Istanbul, Turkey
What are you working on at ORNL?
I work in the Grid Communications and Security group at EEID. My research focuses on investigating novel approaches for detecting and identifying anomalies in power grid signals. We developed a feature extraction method using statistical signal processing approaches to observe the characteristic distinctions between anomaly signals.
What would you like to do in your career?
I want to develop innovative mathematical approaches and signal-processing algorithms that touch on new and emerging areas containing massive measurement data. However, one of the most worthwhile goals of my career is to write a book in order to share my knowledge and experiences with future generations.
Why did you choose a career in science?
My interest in engineering and physics has been sparked by noticing the counterparts of theoretical studies in nature. Upon realizing that my education was merely a grain of sand in a vast desert, I became increasingly interested in learning more about science.
Pratishtha Shukla
Postdoc, Computational Sciences and Engineering Division
Ph.D., Electrical Engineering, North Carolina State University
Hometown: Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
What are you working on at ORNL?
My research focuses on developing models and algorithms for improved control and coordination of energy systems, specifically the electric power grid. I also work on designing models for planning and assessments for future events that affect the grid, whether positive developments such as high penetration of renewable sources or threats associated with solar storms.
What would you like to do in your career?
I want to help build a clean, self-sufficient and resilient power grid to ensure a sustainable future. I hope to contribute my research and work at ORNL to this goal. I am also enthusiastic about sharing knowledge with future generations who are willing to work toward a similar long-term goal.
Why did you choose a career in science?
I have always asked the question, “Why?” Science can answer most of these questions, so I decided to get invested in science. The idea that developments in science and technology have a direct impact on all living things, people and animals makes me excited to work every day.
Jordan Stomps
Graduate student, Nuclear Nonproliferation Division
Ph.D. student, Nuclear Engineering and Engineering Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Hometown: Detroit, Michigan
What are you working on at ORNL?
My research focuses on novel data analytic applications to national security over a variety of measurement modalities. I currently work on semi-supervised machine learning methods to leverage large volumes of radiation data with limited contextual information to produce interpretable estimates and accurately monitor, detect and characterize radiological material.
What would you like to do in your career?
I hope to continue supporting the missions of the National Nuclear Security Administration through research here at ORNL. Developing monitoring systems for nuclear fuel cycles combines my background in nuclear engineering with advances in data science. I expect a career in nuclear nonproliferation to be both fulfilling and impactful.
Why did you choose a career in science?
Science to me has been about a pursuit of discovery in the service of humanity. I have always wanted to be involved in nuclear science because I learned early on about all its exciting societal applications. Success in science for me is making incremental contributions that promote advanced technology utilization.
Briana Schrage
Postdoc, Chemical Sciences Division
Ph.D., Inorganic Chemistry, The University of Akron
Hometown: Strongsville, Ohio
What are you working on at ORNL?
My current research efforts are driven toward the development of novel chelators (molecules) that bind to alpha, beta and Auger-emitting radioisotopes to be utilized in targeted radionuclide therapy. My primary project investigates new chelators for the Auger-emitting radioisotope antimony-119. These chela-tion platforms can then successfully deliver antimony-119 to micrometastases and single-cell diseases in the body.
What would you like to do in your career?
Demand for high-end isotope production capabilities is continually on the rise, and I am interested in continuing a career working on isotope R&D and production. Additionally, I have an interest in mentoring students who are attracted to a career in science.
Why did you choose a career in science?
Children are naturally curious about science and the wonders of nature. My father holds a Ph.D. in mechanical and aerospace engineering, and it inspired me at a young age to pursue a career in science. After one high school chemistry course, I knew it was the field for me.
Abhijeet Dhakane
Graduate Student, Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences
Ph.D. student, Data Science and Engineering, University of Tennessee Knoxville (Bredesen Center)
Hometown: Pune, India
What are you working on at ORNL?
My research primarily focuses on understanding the static and dynamic properties of ferroelectric materials using atomistic simulations. I extensively use AI and deep learning techniques to understand the atomistic simulations where dynamic properties are influenced by defects and order parameter.
What would you like to do in your career?
I’m interested in being part of a team where I use my computational materials and data science knowledge to develop the next generation of materials needed for a fast-paced, growing society.
Why did you choose a career in science?
Since childhood I have been fascinated by scientific discoveries, reading biographies of the scientists and watching Nat Geo, Discovery and TV science shows. I was an active participant in science exhibitions during my school days. After pursuing an applied science degree in undergrad and grad school, now I’m switching to more fundamental science.
Huixin (Anna) Jiang
Postdoc, Chemical Sciences Division
Ph.D., Energy and Environment Science, Nagaoka University of Technology, Japan
Hometown: Laiyang, Shandong Province, China
What are you working on at ORNL?
My research is centered on the development of ultraconductive copper composites with Dr. Tolga Aytug and scalable antibacterial filters with Dr. Kashif Nawaz. Integration of UCCs in energy systems is expected to increase energy efficiency. The antibacterial filters will play a crucial role in enhancing indoor air quality and mitigating the risk of respiratory infectious diseases.
What would you like to do in your career?
I aspire to make a positive impact on global challenges, including climate change, ecology, energy crises and future pandemics, through conducting R&D. While my primary focus is advanced material development, I am eager to contribute across diverse research areas to assist others and create meaningful solutions for pressing world issues.
Why did you choose a career in science?
I am driven by the exhilaration of continuous learning and the energy derived from conducting research. Devoting myself to science and contributing to solutions for global challenges fills me with pride and brings me immense satisfaction. Additionally, sharing my profession with my son to foster his interest in science is very uplifting.