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.
Verity Salmon
Postdoc, Environmental Sciences Division and Climate Change Science Institute
Ph.D., Biology, University of Florida
Hometown: Lafayette, California
What are you working on at ORNL?
I work as part of an interdisciplinary team of scientists whose goal is to improve the representation of arctic ecosystems in Earth system models. My research focuses on understanding the influence arctic plant roots exert on flows of carbon, water and nutrients in these rapidly warming ecosystems.
What would you like to do in your career?
My goal is to pursue research that enhances our understanding of how interactions between plants, soil and microbes impact nutrient cycling in natural ecosystems. I enjoy not only collecting this data but also communicating my approach and findings to other scientists and the broader public.
Why did you choose a career in science?
I decided to pursue a career in science because I love tackling interesting and relevant problems alongside passionate and critical people.