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 staff members, 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.
Chanaka Kumara
Postdoc, Materials Science and Technology Division
Ph.D., Analytical Chemistry, University of Mississippi
Hometown: Kurunegala, Sri Lanka
What are you working on at ORNL?
My research at ORNL focuses on exploring nanomaterials—metallic, ceramic and carbon-based—as advanced lubricant additives and protective coatings. I am working on tuning nanomaterials characteristics so that they can be used in lubrication technologies with a focus on automotive efficiency and durability.
What would you like to do in your career?
As a chemist, I focus on understanding the behaviors and interactions between atoms and molecules. I want to improve the connection between bench-scale nanomaterials researchers and applied industrial-scale production to take full advantage of the fascinating properties of nanomaterials.
Why did you choose a career in science?
I always enjoyed experimenting and trying out different things, and science helps me understand and explain. A science career is exciting when we solve fundamental questions to understand nature.
