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.
Joni Hall
Graduate student, Electrification and Energy Infrastructure Division
Ph.D. Student, Energy Science and Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville (Bredesen Center)
Hometown: Kingston, Jamaica
What are you working on at ORNL?
My work focuses on strategies that enable residential electricity customers to automate decision-making related to devices ranging from HVAC systems to electric vehicles, in a manner that benefits them and the grid. Homes are no longer just consumers of electricity, but also resources with adjustable demand and supply capabilities.
What would you like to do in your career?
Our ability to harness energy has been transformative, but it has also created challenges. I would like to contribute to finding solutions which overcome the challenges created by our current energy system, helping to move it toward being sustainable while helping to equip the next generation of problem solvers.
Why did you choose a career in science?
There are many things I find interesting, and what they have in common is they provide opportunities to find solutions. Science provides a framework and tools for exploration and problem solving. Solving real-world problems brings me joy, so I found science a natural fit.
