Why Science?
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 scientists and engineers, 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.
Adeola Adediran
Graduate student, Energy and Transportation Science Division
Ph.D. student, Energy Science and Engineering, University of Tennessee (Bredesen Center)
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
What are you working on at ORNL?
I work with the Manufacturing Systems Research Group on large-scale metal additive manufacturing through laser metal deposition, with a focus on the aerospace industry. The goal of my research is to develop fully autonomous process controls for detection and correction of manufacturing defects to ensure component integrity and minimize failure risks.
What would you like to do in your career?
I would like to remain in the research and development space and continue to explore ways of optimizing industrial processes through automation and robotics. I also plan to re-establish outreach programs and robot assembly-programming lessons at the high school level (launched in Nigeria) to encourage young girls to embrace STEM [science, technology, engineering and mathematics].
Why did you choose a career in science?
I have always been curious about the way things—particularly machines— work, how self-driven mechanical systems interact to produce motion. My educational and work choices have been molded by my desire to learn about, utilize and contribute as much as I can to the world of machines.
