Office of Research Education
The Office of Research Education (ORE) connects students, faculty, and academic partners with ORNL’s research mission. Through high-quality programs, strategic partnerships, and workforce development initiatives, the office helps prepare the next generation of scientific, technical and professional talent. The office also strengthens the systems and support that help program participants and staff mentors succeed across the laboratory.
Moody Altamimi, PhD
Director
Moody E. Altamimi is the founding director of ORNL’s Office of Research Education. She leads the office’s work to strengthen research careers and student experiences, develop the research workforce, and build strategic university partnerships across the laboratory. Her background includes research strategy and technology translation.
Altamimi earned master’s and doctoral degrees in computer science from George Washington University.
Christopher Beatty, MS, PMP
Strategic Workforce Development Lead
Christopher Beatty leads strategic workforce development and institutional engagement for the office He builds partnerships and workforce development strategies that connect students, educators, and institutions with opportunities aligned with U.S. Department of Energy mission priorities.
Beatty earned a bachelor’s degree in physics from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a master’s degree in physics from Clark Atlanta University. He is also a certified Project Management Professional. Before joining the office, he served as chief operating officer for ORNL’s Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directorate.
Sammy Davis, PhD
Student Affairs Specialist
Sammy Davis draws on her experience as a researcher and educator to create a consistent, high-quality experience for student and faculty program participants. Her work includes onboarding, engagement, professional development, program support, and continuous improvement.
Davis earned a doctorate in ecology, evolution, and marine biology from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Her dissertation examined the ecological processes that sustain macroalgal phase shifts in coral reef ecosystems.
Jackson Gainer, PhD
Student Affairs Specialist
Jackson Gainer leads partnership and outreach efforts that expand access to ORNL research opportunities, particularly for regional colleges, community colleges, and emerging research institutions. He works with academic administrators, faculty, and students to strengthen pathways into the laboratory and supports student engagement, professional development, and career readiness.
Gainer earned a doctorate in microbiology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Earlier in his career, he was an assistant professor of biology at Tennessee Wesleyan University, where he was named Lockmiller Teacher of the Year.
William Jenks, PhD
Core University Programs Lead
William Jenks leads ORNL’s Core Universities Partnership Program, connecting university administrators, faculty, and students with ORNL opportunities and developing strategic partnerships. He also supports graduate internship programs and mentor training.
Jenks earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a doctorate in chemistry from Columbia University. Before joining ORNL, he was a chemistry professor and department chair at Iowa State University.
Shania Long
Educational Programs Support
Shania Long supports Educational Programs through administrative coordination, student assistance, and event planning. She helps create positive on-site experiences by answering questions, coordinating logistics, and ensuring events and program activities run smoothly.
Michael Whetstone, MAT
Student and Faculty Programs Manager
Michael Whetstone, a former physics teacher and U.S. Army logistician, manages student and faculty programs at ORNL. He develops tools and processes to support more than 1,000 interns each year. His work brings mentors, programs, and resources into an efficient support network.
Questions about the Office of Research Education’s programs, partnerships, or services? Email [email protected]. To reach a specific team member, include that person’s name in your message; general inquiries will be directed to the appropriate contact.
ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.