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.
Phil Lotshaw
Postdoc, Computational Sciences and Engineering Division
Ph.D., Physical Chemistry, University of Oregon
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
What are you working on at ORNL?
At ORNL I’m studying a quantum computing algorithm for solving optimization problems. Quantum computing is a new field, and everyone is hoping we may see important improvements over conventional computing methods in the near future. The algorithm I’m studying is one of several potential near-term applications.
What would you like to do in your career?
I’m interested in learning about nature and how things work. I’m not sure exactly what I’ll end up doing, but there’s lots of interesting opportunities out there.
Why did you choose a career in science?
I always enjoyed mathematics and saw physics and chemistry as ways to use math to understand the real world. I chose a career in science because it gives new perspectives on how to think about the world.
