Science & Engineering

Delivering basic and applied science discoveries and innovating engineering R&D is the hallmark of the Science and Engineering division in support of INL's clean energy and national security missions. Its strong fundamental science and application-oriented research results in having one of the highest percentages of patents in the U.S. awarded per capita.

The range of the division's scientific applications includes environmentally friendly hydrocarbon processing, rapid munitions identification systems, field instrumentation for environmental monitoring, and nanotechnology materials processing. These advances solve complex problems - especially those impacting the advancement of nuclear, fossil and renewable energy platforms, national security preparedness, and environmental quality.

The division develops synthetic polymers; fabricates and tests structural materials and welding technologies; devises measurement systems and non-contact sensors; increases knowledge and understanding of chemical, biological, and geophysical processes in subsurface environments; and innovates autonomous robotic/human systems. It also manages a robust portfolio of environmental biotechnology, bioenergy and priority pathogen detection - and captures and uses organisms living in extreme environments.

The division is home to seven departments, including: Materials Characterization, Materials Properties and Performance, Interfacial Chemistry, Chemical and Radiation Measurement, Biological Systems, Applied Mechanics, and Robotics and Intelligent Systems.