SRNL Researcher Wins Environmental Resilience Category at Research SLAM

Savannah River National Laboratory Researcher Sean Noble is pictured at the National Lab Research SLAM held recently in Washington, D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Sean Noble, a researcher with EM's Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL), took first place in the environmental resilience category at the inaugural National Lab Research SLAM held recently in Washington, D.C.

"The ability to make our science relatable to all people is key to being successful scientists and to our ability to attract the next generation of researchers to our national laboratories," SRNL Director Vahid Majidi said. "I'm proud of Sean's work at SRNL and his performance at the Research SLAM."

The event featured collaboration among 17 DOE national labs and highlighted DOE research programs. The event also educated policymakers and their staff about the key role the national labs play in the nation's innovation ecosystem and their impact on the nation.

Savannah River National Laboratory Researcher Sean Noble, left, and Sue Clark, the laboratory's deputy director.

Noble and 16 others presented compelling three-minute presentations about their research in lay person language. Noble's presentation explained how his research in advanced computer modeling increased safety and productivity while reducing costs associated with mixing and transporting liquid waste.
Speaking about his experience, Noble said he learned how to compose and talk in a way that's more compelling than he had known.

"I would highly recommend this experience to national laboratory colleagues because your comfort zone is stretched a bit, but you learn a lot and you have a good time," said Noble.

Sponsored by the House Science and National Labs Caucus and the Senate National Labs Caucus, the Research SLAM highlights the importance of effective science communication, especially while communicating with the general public. The event offers career development opportunities for participants and provides visibility into scientific disciplines and research. Participating in the SLAM also promotes cross-discipline collaboration and networking opportunities with other national labs.

-Contributor: Kendall Carter