As a research scientist at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Nagendra Singh uses geospatial science and technology to understand the consequences of climate and land use change on population dynamics and critical infrastructure. He is a member of the Built Environment Characterization Group and leads research on how to better characterize the resiliency of infrastructures and population from current and future risks.
Singh has worked at ORNL for 17 years, applying data science and geocomputational methods to develop solutions for national security. He has led the development of several foundation-level geospatial datasets that map energy infrastructure such as power lines and substations and critical infrastructure such as hospitals and nursing homes. These efforts support multiple agencies in emergency management and urban planning. During this time he has mentored several students as part of various short- and long-term research opportunities at the Lab.
Read below how mentoring shaped Singh’s career path and his advice on finding the right mentor.
I am enthusiastic about mentoring because I feel I am what I am because I had the privilege of getting wonderful mentors on my journey. It is my responsibility, and it gives me joy, to give back and share my knowledge and experience to help others succeed.
Almost all stages of my life have been shaped by mentors, starting from high school to working at ORNL. A mentor may not always be related to or associated with the activity you are doing, but they should be sincere, patient, and trustworthy. My own mentors have been enthusiastic and encouraging and have acted like catalysts for my success.
If you are looking for a mentor, you are likely looking to succeed and grow professionally. Having a resource who has experienced the path you are own and can guide you along the way is incredibly valuable. Good mentors offer advice freely and without judgment, which can nudge you in new directions to help you improve or change course. Having a safe and comfortable setting to explore your interests and play out career paths as you are making early decisions can have a huge impact on your long-term success.
The most important criterion in selecting a mentor is to choose someone who is willing to invest time in you and is enthusiastic about your goals and expectations. A common mistake is to seek out mentors who have stellar resumes rather than those who leave positive impacts on mentees. Learn about a mentor’s reputation and the other students they have served before you make a commitment. If you have had positive mentoring relationships, keep in touch with your mentors. Communicate your milestones, successes, and achievements. Nothing is more satisfying for a mentor than seeing their mentees succeed.
