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.
Darren Driscoll
Postdoc, Chemical Sciences Division
Ph.D., Chemistry, Virginia Tech
Hometown: Haymarket, Virginia
What are you working on at ORNL?
My current research focuses on understanding local and mesoscale structure during the extraction of rare earth elements. I utilize a combination of synchrotron-based X-ray and neutron techniques to describe rare earth element local coordination and aggregation within extraction mediums in an effort to tailor novel material development for increased separation efficiency.
What would you like to do in your career?
I want to be a world expert in structural chemistry combining high-energy X-ray and neutron techniques to drive the next generation of energy science discoveries. I aspire to join other scientific experts in collaboration to solve complex scientific challenges impacting our modern society.
Why did you choose a career in science?
I like to think the career chooses the person. I enjoy the daily challenges and the overall successes that define me as a researcher.