National Laboratories
Articles tagged with National Laboratories
National Reactor Innovation Center announces first selections for Nuclear Energy Launch Pad
The US Department of Energy has selected four companies to participate in its Nuclear Energy Launch Pad initiative, which aims to support the development and deployment of advanced nuclear technologies. The selected companies will receive technical, regulatory, and deployment support from the National Reactor Innovation Center.
DOME, world’s first nuclear reactor test bed, ready for privately developed advanced reactors
The US Department of Energy's National Reactor Innovation Center (NRIC) has launched the world's first microreactor test bed, DOME, to accelerate development and testing of privately developed advanced nuclear reactors. The test bed will enable rapid demonstration of reactor concepts and gather performance data to support design verifi...
Colorectal cancer screening and health-related social needs in a national sample of US adults
A national study found that unmet health-related social needs are associated with lower colorectal cancer screening rates, particularly among adults aged 50-64. Addressing these needs may support age-specific strategies to improve screening rates.
ORNL receives six Federal Lab Consortium awards for Technology Transfer Excellence
The Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory was recently awarded six Federal Lab Consortium awards for Technology Transfer Excellence. The awards recognize the successful transfer of technology from laboratory to industry, including a breakthrough suite of lithium extraction technologies that enable secure domestic supply.
National report supports measurement innovation to aid commercial fusion energy and enable new plasma technologies
A new report recommends increased investment in America's fusion diagnostic capabilities, a critical technology that could provide information to speed up the delivery of commercial fusion power plants. The report identifies key areas for research and development to advance U.S. leadership in fusion energy and plasma technologies.
Kumar named to ACMA Emerging Leaders Program for 2026
Vipin Kumar, a composites manufacturing researcher at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, has been selected for the ACMA Emerging Leaders Program. The program develops future leaders in the composites industry through professional development and advocacy training.
National Reactor Innovation Center opens Molten Salt Thermophysical Examination Capability at INL
The National Reactor Innovation Center's new Molten Salt Thermophysical Examination Capability will enable researchers to gather reliable data for designing and testing molten salt reactors. The capability is a key step toward advancing next-generation nuclear reactor technologies, addressing national energy objectives.
Idaho National Laboratory to accelerate nuclear energy deployment with NVIDIA AI through the Genesis Mission
The partnership aims to accelerate advanced nuclear reactor deployment and reduce costs through AI-driven design, licensing, and operation. By leveraging AI, Prometheus Grand Challenge seeks to deliver nuclear energy at a faster schedule, with at least 2x acceleration and greater than 50% operational cost reductions.
ORNL, Kairos Power partner to advance deployment of next-gen nuclear energy
The partnership aims to accelerate the development of fluoride salt-cooled high-temperature reactors, which use molten fluoride salt coolant with TRISO fuel. ORNL will provide expertise and access to specialized facilities for review and evaluation, as well as manufacture components for reactor development and testing.
First-of-its-kind automated root imaging platform speeds plant discoveries
The new platform at ORNL's APPL facility combines robotics and AI to deliver in-depth insights for plant transformation. Massive datasets generated by the platform are analyzed using AI and ORNL's Frontier exascale supercomputer.
Idaho National Laboratory accepting grant applications for STEM education, community development programs
The Idaho National Laboratory is now accepting grants for STEM education and community development initiatives. The grants, funded by Battelle Energy Alliance, aim to strengthen Idaho's communities and future workforce through innovative projects and programs.
INL advances Department of War’s Project Pele demonstration microreactor with first TRISO fuel delivery
The Idaho National Laboratory has successfully delivered the first batch of tri-structural isotropic (TRISO) particle fuel to the Transient Reactor Test Facility, paving the way for Project Pele's demonstration microreactor. This fuel, known for its durability under high heat and radiation, is a key component in advanced nuclear reactors.
Idaho National Laboratory announces initial selections for first MARVEL experiments
The Idaho National Laboratory has selected five companies to conduct end-user experiments on the Microreactor Application Research Validation and Evaluation (MARVEL) project. The selected teams will explore innovative applications of MARVEL, including powering data centers with nuclear energy and demonstrating desalination technologies.
NASA’s VIPER mission gets vital help from Sandia
The NASA VIPER rover has completed critical testing at Sandia National Laboratories' Large Centrifuge facility, which subjected the vehicle to extreme inertial forces and vibration conditions. The successful tests pave the way for the rover's mission to create a water concentration map of the moon's South Pole.
Not the largest supercomputer, but maybe the most interesting
The new Spectra supercomputer at Sandia National Laboratories features a unique chip architecture that prioritizes tasks in real time, promising increased performance and reduced power consumption. Researchers will push the limits of this technology to simulate complex national security tasks.
ORNL receives 2025 SAMPE Organizational Excellence Award
The Society for the Advancement of Material and Process Engineering has awarded Oak Ridge National Laboratory the 2025 SAMPE Organizational Excellence Award. The award recognizes ORNL's extraordinary contributions to advanced materials and processes, enabling breakthroughs in industries such as aerospace and automotive.
The lignin is in the latitude
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory found that latitude affects lignin production in poplar trees, which has practical applications for innovations in biomaterials and biofuels. The study reveals a correlation between latitude and lignin expression, guiding future plant engineering to adapt to environmental changes.
Idaho National Laboratory accelerates nuclear energy projects with Amazon Web Services cloud and AI technologies
The Idaho National Laboratory is collaborating with Amazon Web Services to develop artificial intelligence tools for nuclear energy projects. The laboratory aims to reduce the costs and timeframes of designing, licensing, building, and operating nuclear facilities using advanced AI technologies.
Idaho National Laboratory to lead advancements in US semiconductor manufacturing
The Idaho National Laboratory will lead the Semiconductor Manufacturing and Advanced Research with Twins USA Institute (SMART USA) in advancing American digital twin technology. Leveraging high-performance computing, digital engineering, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing, SMART USA aims to reboot domestic manufacturin...
Cassava witches’ broom disease takes flight in South America
A fungal pathogen is causing cassava witches' broom disease to spread rapidly in Brazil and French Guiana, impacting food security and livelihoods. Researchers are racing against time to understand the extent of the threat and find a way to treat or prevent the disease.
Idaho National Laboratory collaborates with Microsoft to streamline nuclear licensing
The Idaho National Laboratory is using Microsoft's Azure cloud and artificial intelligence to automate the nuclear permitting and licensing process. The tool generates reports required for construction permits and operating licenses, streamlining efficiency and accelerating deployment of advanced nuclear technologies.
Innovation Crossroads welcomes six entrepreneurs for Cohort 2025
The program provides access to ORNL's resources and connects entrepreneurs with experts and networks to accelerate their efforts. Innovators receive a fellowship, comprehensive mentoring assistance, and substantial grants to support collaborative research.
UT partners with Y-12 to establish national security prototype center
The University of Tennessee at Knoxville and Consolidated Nuclear Security have partnered to create a National Security Prototype Center in Oak Ridge, focusing on manufacturing solutions for the nuclear sector. The center aims to develop qualified prototypes that provide solutions for national security and nuclear energy sectors.
Quantum Science Center summer school draws record attendance
The fifth annual Quantum Science Center Summer School at Purdue University welcomed its largest group of students, with a focus on introductory presentations and technical talks. Graduate students and doctoral candidates led the program, which covered topics such as quantum materials, devices, and algorithms.
UT-Battelle, industry partners energize Oak Ridge High School STEM program with state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment
UT-Battelle has donated $225,000 to purchase advanced manufacturing equipment for Oak Ridge High School's Wildcat Manufacturing iSchool program. The equipment includes AI- and robotics-assisted manufacturing systems, enabling students to earn college credit while gaining experience with the latest innovations in intelligent manufacturing.
Novel data streaming software chases light speed from accelerator to supercomputer
DELERIA, a novel software platform, is being developed to support the GRETA spectrometer in nuclear physics experiments. The platform enables real-time data analysis, allowing researchers to make critical adjustments during the experiment, leading to faster and more accurate results.
Subtle edits yield big results in microbes
Scientists used a gene-silencing tool and large library to understand how photosynthetic bacteria adapt to light and temperature changes. Partial suppression of genes yielded big benefits in modifying stress response in wild microbes.
NSF-funded research heads to the international space station on NASA's SpaceX CRS-32 mission
Three NSF-funded investigations are launching on NASA's SpaceX CRS-32 mission to ISS National Laboratory. Investigations aim to advance pharmaceutical manufacturing, develop new materials, and study active matter in microgravity environment.
ELVIS has entered orbit: Pioneering imaging system to enhance space biology and life detection beyond earth
The Extant Life Volumetric Imaging System (ELVIS) will test a new holographic microscope on the International Space Station to analyze the adaptability and resilience of microorganisms. The system aims to reveal how life might persist on distant moons and planets, significantly enhancing our search for life outside Earth.
Physics student pushes boundaries in nuclear research as 2025 Los Alamos-Texas A&M Fellow
Ryan Amberger, a Ph.D. candidate in physics at Texas A&M University, has been selected for a 2025 Los Alamos-Texas A&M Fellowship to conduct dissertation research on nuclear astrophysics. He aims to improve understanding of the s-process by studying neutron cross sections.
Maximal entanglement sheds new light on particle creation
Physicists have shown that particles produced in 'jets' retain information about their origins in subatomic particle smashups. The study establishes a direct connection between the 'entanglement entropy' at the earliest stage of jet formation and the particles that emerge as a jet evolves.
New research examines how nanoscopic ripples affect material properties
New research validates theoretical models on how nanoscopic ripples affect material properties, leading to a better understanding of their mechanical behavior. The study's findings have significant implications for the development of microelectronics and other technologies that rely on thin films.
A surprise contender for cooling computers: lasers
Sandia Labs is testing laser-based photonic cooling for computer chips, which could significantly lower power consumption and increase efficiency. The technology aims to regulate chip temperatures without using water or air-based systems.
ISS National Lab launches Orbital Edge Accelerator Program to propel startups into the growing space economy
The ISS National Lab has launched the Orbital Edge Accelerator program, investing up to $500,000 in six startups for space-based innovation and research & development. The selected startups will receive mentorship and the opportunity to launch an ISS National Lab-sponsored investigation.
Study tracks chromium chemistry in irradiated molten salts
Scientists used radiation-induced reactions to convert corrosive Cr³⁺ to less-corrosive Cr²⁺, potentially mitigating metal alloy corrosion in molten salt nuclear reactors. The findings could improve the long-term reliability of these new reactors.
AAAS elects five ORNL scientists as fellows
Five Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientists have been elected AAAS Fellows for their groundbreaking work in experimental condensed matter physics, microbial ecology, catalysis, and energy applications. Ho Nyung Lee was recognized for his research on oxide quantum materials, while David Graham's contributions to microbial biochemistry...
Diagnosing a dud may lead to a better battery
A team of chemists from Virginia Tech found a way to visualize the intricate structure and chemical reactions of battery interfaces using an X-ray beam line. This breakthrough enables researchers to gain better control over these critical surfaces, potentially leading to cheaper, higher performance batteries.
Idaho National Laboratory seeks sponsor for innovation incubator to support technology commercialization
The Idaho National Laboratory is seeking a private sector sponsor to invest in an innovation incubator supporting breakthrough innovations in nuclear energy, cybersecurity, and advanced materials. The program aims to provide seed-stage startups with access to INL's world-class facilities and technical expertise.
Introducing 'Between a Rocket & a Hard Space': the ISS National Lab’s new podcast exploring the future of space innovation
The ISS National Lab's new podcast, 'Between a Rocket & a Hard Space', offers exclusive insights from scientists, engineers, and visionaries on the future of space research. The first episode explores the groundbreaking science happening on the International Space Station, including its impact on medicine, technology, and industry.
Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) enters 25th and final run
RHIC physicists will complete data collection for one of the collider's central goals: creating and studying a unique form of matter known as a quark-gluon plasma (QGP). The QGP is expected to provide crucial insights for the future Electron-Ion Collider (EIC), which will be built by reusing components of RHIC.
Researchers capture first laser-driven, high-resolution CT scans of dense objects
A Colorado State University team has achieved a new milestone in 3D X-ray imaging technology by capturing high-resolution CT scans of the interior of a large, dense object using a compact, laser-driven X-ray source. This breakthrough offers a fast and non-destructive way to obtain detailed views inside dense structures.
NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 returns to Earth after months of engaging in cutting-edge science sponsored by the ISS National Lab
Crew-9 astronauts conducted research on protein crystallization studies and a new drug for Alzheimer's, dementia, and Parkinson's. They also supported student-led experiments, contributing to the next generation of explorers.
Advancing antiferromagnetic spintronics for next-gen memory and computing
Researchers at UC Riverside will explore how antiferromagnetic spintronics can improve memory density and computing speed. The project aims to develop ultrafast spin-based technology using special antiferromagnets with potential applications in advanced memory and computing.
NASA’s SpaceX crew-10 astronauts to advance biomedical, materials, and physical sciences via the ISS National Laboratory
The Crew-10 mission will support cutting-edge biomedical investigations and NSF-funded physical science projects through the ISS National Lab. Astronauts will conduct experiments on the International Space Station, with findings benefiting humanity and driving commerce in low Earth orbit.
For better quantum sensing, go with the flow
Researchers have developed a new technique for quantum sensing using nanodiamonds in microdroplets, which can detect trace amounts of certain ions and molecules. This method uses flowing droplets and carefully modulated microwaves to ignore unwanted background noise and add precision.
ASU forges new strategic partnership to solve the mystery of how planets are formed
A new collaboration between ASU, MSU, and LLNL aims to answer the question of how planets form by analyzing the atmospheres of seven young exoplanets. The team will use the James Webb Space Telescope and powerful computers to create atmospheric models that can reveal insights into planetary formation and evolution.
New photon-avalanching nanoparticles could enable next-generation optical computers
Researchers developed new photon avalanching nanoparticles that exhibit high nonlinearities, overcoming challenges in realizing intrinsic optical bistability at the nanoscale. The breakthrough paves the way for fabricating optical memory and transistors on a nanometer scale comparable to current microelectronics.
B61-12 system production ends, sustainment begins
The last production unit of the B61-12 nuclear gravity bomb was completed in December, marking a significant milestone for the US nuclear deterrence program. The B61-12 program will continue to produce spare components until fiscal year 2026.
ISS National Lab announces funding opportunity to prepare students for STEM careers
The ISS National Lab is seeking proposals for education-focused projects that prepare students for space-focused careers. Successful projects will leverage the orbiting outpost for training and education programs.
From photons to protons: Argonne team makes breakthrough in high-energy particle detection
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a new use for superconducting nanowire photon detectors to detect high-energy protons, opening up exciting opportunities in nuclear and particle physics. The team found that wire widths smaller than 400 nanometers demonstrate high detection efficiency.
Last chance to get a hotel discount for the world’s largest physics meeting
Discounted hotel rates available at select hotels near the Anaheim Convention Center. The Global Physics Summit will feature nearly 14,000 individual presentations on new research in various fields.
DOE’s Office of Science is now Accepting Applications for Office of Science Graduate Student Research Awards
The US Department of Energy's Office of Science is now accepting applications for the SCGSR program, providing funding for graduate students to conduct research at national laboratories. The goal of the program is to prepare students for scientific and technical careers critically important to the mission of DOE's Office of Science.
NRL plasma physicist elevated to IEEE Fellow
Arati Dasgupta, a leading atomic and plasma physicist at NRL, has been elevated to IEEE Fellow for her groundbreaking research in high-energy density plasmas, atomic physics, and radiation materials. Her work has significantly advanced our understanding of extreme environments and their applications.
2024 ISS National Lab Annual Report highlights momentum in space-based R&D
The ISS National Lab sponsored over 100 payloads to the orbiting laboratory, achieving the second-highest annual total. The lab also published a record 51 peer-reviewed articles in FY24, advancing scientific discovery and innovation.
Peeling back the layers: Exploring capping effects on nickelate superconductivity
Researchers used advanced X-ray techniques to study infinite-layer nickelates, a promising family of high-temperature superconductors. They found that magnetic fluctuations and spin excitations are present in these materials, regardless of the presence of a capping layer.
A groundbreaking approach: Researchers at The University of Texas at San Antonio chart the future of neuromorphic computing
Neuromorphic computing is poised to emerge into full-scale commercial use, driven by the need for energy-efficient solutions. The review article proposes strategies for building large-scale neuromorphic systems that can tackle complex real-world challenges.
UCF to lead $5M consortium to train nuclear engineers
The UCF-led PARTNERS consortium aims to train a new generation of nuclear engineers and scientists, providing a talent pipeline for the NNSA. The $5 million grant will support students from underrepresented communities, providing research opportunities and internships at national labs.
UT Arlington powers domestic magnet manufacturing innovation
The University of Texas at Arlington is developing more efficient processes for sourcing rare earth elements needed to produce high-performance magnets. The project aims to make the mining of these critical materials more environmentally sustainable and cost-effective.
Aydin elevated to IEEE senior membership
Emrullah Aydin's work in modeling and simulation supported ORNL's record-setting wireless power transfer of 270-kilowatts to a light-duty passenger vehicle. He joined ORNL in 2022 as a postdoctoral researcher and became a staff member in 2023.