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.
Tugba Turnaoglu
Postdoc, Buildings and Transportation Science Division
Ph.D., Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Kansas
Hometown: Ankara, Turkey
What are you working on at ORNL?
The foundation of our research group is to carry the fundamentals of science and engineering to the most innovative, sustainable, and energy-efficient building equipment technologies. My work is focused on improving and developing the technologies for a wide range of equipment, from dishwashers to advanced dehumidification units.
What would you like to do in your career?
I would like to build my team to carry on fundamental and applied research to combat the challenges of the 21st century on the pillars of advanced materials and the innovative design of processes and systems.
Why did you choose a career in science?
At an early age, I discovered I enjoy scientific discussions. My endless passion for learning new things and my scientific curiosity led me to be a scientist. Also, I have always been inspired by the lives of famous scientists and the paths they followed in pursuit of remarkable discoveries.
