oane State nuclear technology students tour the Radiochemical Engineering Development Center (Building 7930) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory on February 26, 2026.

Kickstart Your
Career in Isotopes

The future of isotope science is being shaped at Oak Ridge National Lab through world-class facilities, experts in the field, and new discoveries.

Whether you’re pursuing a technical certificate, associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or graduate degree, there are pathways to help you build skills and explore meaningful careers.

Real Experience

Real Experience

Support projects in medicine, energy, national security, and more.

Real Experience
Mentorship

Mentorship

Learn from the top minds in the field of isotope science.

Mentorship
Top Facilities

Top Facilities

Learn what it's like to work in isotope facilities and technology.

Top Facilities
Opportunities

Opportunities

Develop your career opportunities with support from us.

Opportunities

Building the Local Workforce of the Future

The nation’s future scientific and technical capabilities depend on a strong workforce pipeline.

ORNL partners with schools, colleges, universities, and workforce development organizations to help students discover career opportunities, develop technical skills, and gain practical experience.

These partnerships create pathways into careers that support scientific research, facility operations, engineering, manufacturing, business operations, and advanced technologies.

Pellissippi State Community College Pathway

Pellissippi State Community College serves as an important partner in developing the technical workforce needed to support future scientific and engineering missions.

Their Chemical Radiation Technology Pathway gives students lab experience and gives the opportunity to get an internship at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

A woman speaks to a group of people in front of a hot cell.
Multiple people peer through a hot cell window and use a manipulator.

Roane State Community College

Roane State Community College helps prepare students for careers that support scientific research, technical operations, advanced manufacturing, and laboratory environments.

Their Nuclear Technology Program gives students mock lab experience, including hands-on hot cell operations, and the opportunity for an internship at Oak Ridge National Lab.

Where Can Isotopes Take You?

Two people stand in front of a hot cell and use manipulators.

Science & Research

Chemistry, radiochemistry, isotope science, materials science, environmental science, and research support.

Engineering & Tech

Mechanical, electrical, chemical, nuclear, and systems engineering as well as advanced technical support roles.

Operations & Trade

Facility operations, maintenance, instrumentation, manufacturing technologies, quality assurance, and technical services.

Apply for an Internship Today