2026 National Lab Research SLAM

Why It Matters

These lab‑scale breakthroughs translate into faster, cleaner supply‑chain solutions and cost‑effective energy infrastructure, directly strengthening U.S. energy security and industrial competitiveness.

Key Takeaways

• National Lab Research Slam showcases 17 early‑career DOE scientists.
• AI‑driven vinegar method aims to separate critical metals sustainably.
• Primo tool uses ML to optimize oil‑well plugging decisions.
• Engineered microbes boost battery metal recovery, reducing landfill waste.
• New TRISO‑like nuclear fuel research targets resilient, small‑scale power.

Summary

The third National Lab Research Slam convened in Washington, D.C., bringing together 17 early‑career researchers from each of the Department of Energy’s national laboratories. In three‑minute, single‑slide presentations, they highlighted breakthroughs across energy security, scientific discovery, advanced materials, and national security, while a panel of senior officials and industry leaders evaluated them on structure, slide clarity, and delivery. Key insights spanned four categories. At Idaho National Lab, Dr. Karen Duza demonstrated an AI‑augmented vinegar process to selectively separate critical metals like samarium, promising a non‑toxic, domestic supply chain. At the National Energy Technology Laboratory, Dr. William TR introduced Primo, a machine‑learning decision‑support platform that evaluates millions of well‑plugging scenarios in seconds, delivering 23% greater impact and 21% higher efficiency. The National Laboratory of the Rockies showcased engineered ferro‑oxidant microbes that resist cobalt, lithium, and nickel by over 70%, boosting battery‑metal recovery by 40% without harsh chemicals. Oak Ridge’s Dr. Brian Conri outlined a TRISO‑like nuclear fuel concept designed for robust, small‑scale power generation. Notable examples included Duza’s claim that a few drops of vinegar plus an electric current can “shock” metal ions apart, and the Primo case study where state agencies saved millions by selecting optimal plug‑in wells. Rasmusen highlighted the evolution of microbes into “metal‑resistant superheroes,” while Conri emphasized the need for high‑temperature, safety‑lean nuclear fuels to power hospitals, data centers, and remote installations. The implications are profound: AI‑driven chemistry could secure critical‑metal supply chains; ML optimization tools like Primo can slash public‑sector costs while improving environmental outcomes; bio‑leaching advances promise circular battery economies; and next‑generation nuclear fuels may decentralize resilient power. Collectively, these innovations signal a shift toward sustainable, domestically sourced energy technologies that bolster national security and economic competitiveness.

Original Description

The third National Lab Research SLAM gives early-career researchers from the Department of Energy (DOE) a chance to present their groundbreaking research on Capitol Hill.

On April 15, 2026, seventeen participants representing each of the 17 DOE National Laboratories have three minutes to share their research with a broad audience in an engaging and entertaining way.

Judges will evaluate participants on content and communication in four Research Categories, and a People’s Choice winner will be selected by the in-person and virtual audience.

Winners will be announced on https://nlresearchslam.org and on social media.