NETL’s research associates are selected from an elite pool of candidates and represent the best and brightest in their fields. Our program participants are eager to learn and excited to make an impact in the energy industry. The research associates represent a diverse set of individuals from the United States and over 25 countries. These participants are the key to securing our nation’s energy future and advancing energy technology.
Meet computer science student Steven Justus from La Roche University, who is collaborating with mentor Yuhua Duan at the NETL Pittsburgh lab. Steven brings a strong background in chemistry and computer science, and he’s looking forward to gaining real-world problem-solving experience while he furthers his abilities as a professional during his summer internship at NETL.
Megan Tucker, a mathematics and writing student at Oregon State University, spent her summer at the NETL Albany site as part of the Mickey Leland Energy Fellowship program. With the help of her mentor, Jennifer Bauer, she learned more about statistics and computer science.
Marcos Hernandez, a mechanical engineering student at UTEP - The University of Texas at El Paso, enjoys challenging himself. As a participant in the Consortium for Integrating Energy Systems in Engineering & Science Education (CIESESE) program, Marcos collaborated with mentor David Tucker to develop a sensor for use in hybrid energy systems. Eventually, he hopes to contribute to space exploration, nuclear energy, and sustainable energy systems.
“I would advise potential candidates/future research associates to be prepared to challenge yourself, ask questions, and most importantly, have fun. Everyone—from the researchers to the staff members—are always willing to help, so come curious and stay committed.”
-James Egbu, 2018 PIP and former MLEF participant
“The projects I have collaborated on have pushed me intellectually and taught me to think outside the box. I have had the chance to publish peer-reviewed papers, contribute to writing research grant proposals and produce technical reports, all of which have professional benefits for life after my internship. Additionally, I have had several opportunities to present papers at conferences and develop my public speaking skills while also developing a professional network of peers.”
-Jake Nelson, 2019 PGRP
“I plan on recommending this program and place to others in my department at my university. This program is first class in its treatment of students and opportunity for cutting-edge research.”
-Kirk Kinard, 2019 MLEF
“This project was very interesting to me because it was a very direct application of my chemical engineering degree, and it challenged me to develop my problem solving skillsets in ways I would've never been able to learn in the classroom.”
-Kaylee Smith, 2018 MLEF
