How to Find a Research Mentor at ORNL

Internships at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) provide hands-on experience in cutting-edge science and technology research. To ensure a meaningful and productive experience, students are encouraged to proactively connect with staff whose expertise aligns with their academic interests. 

With more than 7,500 employees across multiple research areas, ORNL offers a wide range of opportunities. This guide outlines two ways to identify and contact a potential research mentor. 

Step 1: Identify a Research Group 

ORNL is organized into eight science areas (directorates). Each directorate contains divisions, which include sections and groups — the most specific level of research activity. 

Students are encouraged to begin at the group level. Group Leaders are often the best initial contacts unless you have already identified a specific researcher. 

A.  Search on ORNL.gov 

1. Visit: https://www.ornl.gov 
2. Review the eight science areas (Biology and Environment, Computing, Energy Science, Fusion and Fission, Isotopes, Physical Sciences, National Security, Neutron Sciences) and select one aligned with your interests. 
3. Navigate to a related division or research area. 
4. Identify a section and then a research group. 
5. Locate the Group Leader or relevant researcher. 

If contact information is not listed, search Google using: 

• [Group Name] leader ORNL 

B. Search on Impact.ORNL.gov  

Impact.ORNL.gov is a searchable database of researchers, groups, and publications. This platform allows you to identify researchers by topic. 

1. Visit: https://impact.ornl.gov 
2. Enter keywords related to your intended research topic. 
3. Review researcher profiles and associated groups. 
4. Identify a researcher or group of interest. 
5. Use Google to locate contact information by searching: 

• [Researcher Name] ORNL 
• [Group Name] leader ORNL 

Students are still encouraged to begin at the group level, as Group Leaders can advise on available opportunities. 

Step 2: Contact a Potential Mentor 

Prepare a concise and professional email that includes: 

• Résumé: Attach your current résumé or CV. 
• Introduction: Academic year, major, research experience, and relevant coursework or honors. 
• Interest statement: Briefly explain why their work interests you and how it aligns with your goals. 
• Clear request: State your interest in mentorship and specify your intended timeframe (e.g., Summer 2026). Mention the program you plan to apply to, if known. 
• Alternative contact: If they are unavailable, politely ask whether they recommend another colleague. 

Need Help? 

For questions about internships, fellowships, or other educational opportunities, contact: 

Office of Research Education 
education@ornl.gov