What does ORNL do?
From the earliest days of Manhattan Project, ORNL has focused on translational science, where basic and applied research work together to facilitate and accelerate use-inspired fundamental science and science-driven technology development.
The nation’s economic future depends on a vibrant science and technology infrastructure that supports industries that can compete globally as they take discoveries from the laboratory to the marketplace.
Who manages ORNL?
Oak Ridge National Laboratory is a multiprogram research laboratory managed by UT-Battelle, LLC, for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The laboratory is located on the Oak Ridge Reservation, a 30,000-acre tract of land in East Tennessee.
How many people work at ORNL?
ORNL has more than 7,000 staff members and hosts about 5,000 visiting scientists each year from over 60 different countries.
What type of research is ORNL known for?
ORNL is known for research that addresses major national challenges in energy, security, science, and economic competitiveness. Our work spans high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, neutron science, advanced and critical materials, nuclear science and engineering, isotopes, biology and environmental science, quantum information science, manufacturing, and national security.
By combining large-scale user facilities with multidisciplinary research teams, ORNL helps move discoveries from fundamental science toward real-world solutions for government, industry, and the public.
How is ORNL different than Y-12, K-25, ETTP, and other Oak Ridge sites?
ORNL, Y-12, K-25/ETTP and other Oak Ridge sites are often mentioned together because they share roots in the Manhattan Project and are located in the Oak Ridge area, but they are separate facilities with different missions, management and access requirements.
ORNL is a U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory focused on open, multidisciplinary research in areas such as energy, computing, materials, biology, nuclear science, isotopes and national security.
Y-12 is a separate national security complex, while K-25 and ETTP refer to the former uranium enrichment site that has been the focus of cleanup, historic preservation and redevelopment.
Together, these sites reflect Oak Ridge’s broader scientific and national security legacy, but ORNL’s primary role today is as a research laboratory.
When was ORNL founded, and what was its role in the Manhattan Project?
What is now Oak Ridge National Laboratory began in 1943 as part of the Manhattan Project, the World War II effort to develop the first nuclear weapons. Then known as Clinton Laboratories, the site was built around the X-10 Graphite Reactor, the world’s first continuously operated nuclear reactor. X-10 served as a pilot facility that helped prove reactor operations and plutonium production methods later used at larger wartime sites.
After the war, the laboratory’s mission expanded from its Manhattan Project origins into broad scientific research, including nuclear science, isotopes, materials, biology, energy, computing and national security.
Where is ORNL located?
ORNL is located at 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37830 with satellite facilities in Hardin Valley and east Oak Ridge. More detailed information is available on our Maps and Directions page.
Can the public visit or tour ORNL?
Oak Ridge National Laboratory hosts thousands of visitors every year. The Department of Energy manages a public bus tour program that includes a stop at ORNL. Also, number of virtual options have been made available for self-guided tours and hosted tours upon request.
What do I need to know before I visit ORNL?
- Coordinate with your ORNL host to ensure all site access requirements are complete.
- Complete required visitor registration
- Ensure your ID documents meet requirements
How do members of the media contact ORNL?
The media relations team is available at [email protected]. There are also media resources available at www.ornl.gov/mediaresources.
How do I contact someone at ORNL?
The ORNL staff directory is available at www.ornl.gov/directory.
How do I apply for a job at ORNL?
Please visit www.ornl.gov/careers to view all open positions and sign up for the Talent Network.
Does ORNL offer internships, student programs, or postdoctoral opportunities?
Yes, ORNL hosts hundreds of students each summer to support lab activities. More information can be found at www.ornl.gov/education.
How can my company, university, or organization work with ORNL?
There are many ways to partner with ORNL, all of which can be found at www.ornl.gov/partnerships.