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.
Jasmine Kreig
Graduate student, Environmental Sciences Division
Ph.D. student, Energy Science and Engineering, University of Tennessee (Bredesen Center)
Hometowns: Seattle, Washington; Raleigh, North Carolina
What are you working on at ORNL?
I am examining biodiversity in bioenergy landscapes in Iowa. For part of this project, I am investigating landscape design that incorporates bioenergy crops at the fuel-shed scale. The other aspect of my project seeks to create an optimal spatiotemporal harvesting strategy for both biomass and wild game.
What would you like to do in your career?
I would like to stay in research. I have enjoyed immensely my time—first, as a post-bachelor’s researcher and then as a graduate student—at ORNL and would be happy continuing to do research at a national institution.
Why did you choose a career in science?
Science was always the subject in school that challenged me the most. Even though I found it to be incredibly frustrating, I also found that eventually figuring out whatever had stumped me gave me the most pleasure. I wanted a job where I could continue to learn and be challenged.