The Office of Science Graduate Student Research (SCGSR) program is a Department of Energy Office of Science initiative that supports dissertation-based doctoral students conducting part of their dissertation research at a DOE national laboratory.
This program provides supplemental awards to enable graduate students to engage in extended research visits aligned with DOE mission priorities, including high-performance computing, AI and data science, quantum science, fusion energy science and engineering, nuclear energy, and critical materials and technologies. SCGSR is designed to strengthen the connection between university research and national laboratory capabilities while preparing the next generation of scientific leaders. Awards typically support research appointments of 3 to 12 consecutive months.
At Oak Ridge National Laboratory, SCGSR awardees are embedded within research teams and user facilities that advance mission-driven science across computing, neutron sciences, materials research, energy systems, and nuclear science. Each participant closely coordinates with their university adviser and an ORNL mentor to ensure laboratory research directly supports their dissertation objectives. The program operates through a competitive DOE Office of Science application process, with students applying in collaboration with an identified laboratory mentor before award selection. SCGSR provides doctoral candidates access to ORNL’s world-class instrumentation, leadership-class computing systems, and multidisciplinary expertise in support of high-impact, publishable research aligned with DOE priorities.
Applications for 2026 Solicitation 2 close November 4, 2026, at 5 p.m. ET.
Eligibility
U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
Doctoral candidate
3.0+ GPA
Travel allowance as applicable
18+ years old
Contacts
For general questions about ORNL educational programs, email [email protected].
For questions about SCGSR eligibility or the application process, email [email protected].
ORNL participates in the SCGSR program, which is managed by the DOE Office of Science Workforce Development for Teachers and Scientists in collaboration with DOE national laboratories.
ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.
