Bio
Julya is a science writer and communications specialist for the Energy Science and Technology Directorate, focusing on transportation research at the National Transportation Research Center. With over 20 years of experience, she brings a unique blend of expertise in meteorology, communications, marketing, design layout, and public relations.
Professional Experience
Julya spent several years on-air at WBIR and WATE, forecasting the weather and delivering feature stories. A standout moment in her career was covering the historic 2011 tornado super outbreak in the Southeast. After transitioning from broadcasting, she moved into communications and marketing, where she has worked on a wide range of impactful projects.
Her experience includes interviewing world-renowned brain researchers on the science of reading, managing healthcare communications in Sevierville during the aftermath of the 2016 Smokies wildfire, and leading K-12 education marketing efforts during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. With a dual background in science and communications, Julya is deeply committed to amplifying the voices of researchers and translating complex topics into compelling narratives.
Immediately prior to joining the communications team at ORNL, Julya served as an information specialist, focusing on technical communications for DOE's Biological and Environmental Research program.
Awards
ORNL Distinguished Achievement Award, 2024
Team Excellence, Biosciences Division
Award of Excellence, Society for Technical Communication Awards, 2024
U.S. Scientific Leadership Addressing Energy, Ecosystems, Climate, and Sustainable Prosperity
Award of Merit, Society for Technical Communication Awards, 2024
Understanding and Predictability of Integrated Mountain Hydroclimate Workshop Report
Education
Bachelor of Science, Communications
Minor: Geography
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Bachelor of Science, Geosciences
Concentration: Meteorology
Mississippi State University, Starkville