Born out of WWII, the US national laboratory system under the Department of Energy is designed to advance science and technology for the American people. Working in a unique, mission-focused space between government and for-profit industry, researchers across the national laboratories focus on the challenges most important to our nation — from combating climate change to curing cancer — and openly share their findings with the public. 

In the 80 years since Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s founding, our research has advanced understanding of the world around us — while building foundational infrastructure and expertise to support scientific discovery globally. From clean energy and the environment to human health and national security, ORNL is committed to solving the challenges that matter to you.