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Seong Jin An

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.

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.

Seong Jin An

Graduate student, Energy and Transportation Science Division
Ph.D. student, Energy Science and Engineering, University of Tennessee (Bredesen Center)
Hometown: Busan, South Korea

What are you working on at ORNL?

My research currently focuses on correlating long-term lithium-ion battery performance with protective film properties. The protective film forms on electrodes during the first few cycles of charge/discharge and makes a battery rechargeable reversibly. This research is necessary to improve the cycle life and safety of batteries.

What would you like to do in your career?

I have been working on analyzing and improving electrochemical energy cells such as batteries and fuel cells. I would like to stay in the electrochemical field and expand my work to develop a new electrochemical cell that is affordable and superior to existing cells.

Why did you choose a career in science?

I chose a career in science because science gives me new insights into challenging problems. Solving problems to help people has always been fascinating to me.