Solar Energy
To make renewable resources viable and reliable sources of energy for the broad spectrum of American energy needs, PNNL works extensively in the field of solar energy. Projects focused on discoveries in thin film photovoltaics, thermal storage for concentrating solar power, and grid integration are ongoing as PNNL researchers look for more efficient technologies and methods to harness the power of the sun.
Adaptive Autonomous Systems
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of computing, striving to deliver innovative capabilities. Adaptive autonomous systems are at the forefront, leveraging diverse computing environments to enhance scientific and security advancements.
Fusion Energy Science
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) fusion energy research addresses scientific and technical challenges important to the development of future fusion systems. Our scientists bring together decades of tritium expertise with fusion materials research, materials characterization, fuel-cycle technologies, modeling, advanced manufacturing, and autonomous science.
Electrochemical Energy Storage
PNNL is leveraging fundamental science and industry engagements to deliver commercially relevant processes, technology, and systems for next-generation electrochemical technologies.
Toward a Standard Model of Biology
PNNL researchers are pursuing a Standard Model of Biology to predict how living systems behave by integrating chemical and physical processes across scales, laying the groundwork for predictive and programmable biological engineering.
National Security
Protecting U.S. residents is among our nation’s highest priorities. As adversaries gain access to sophisticated technologies and materials, the threats grow more dynamic and complex—from cyber and nuclear to chemical and biological weapons of mass effect and other forms of terrorism. Faced with these realities and their impact on national security, PNNL develops science-based solutions that keep America safe. We drive innovation and critical capabilities in nuclear materials, threat analysis, and other areas of expertise to secure our nation’s critical infrastructure, combat global terrorism, and detect concealed threats and explosives.
Biology
At PNNL, our biology researchers explore human and soil microbiomes to understand their function. We also use nanoscale proteomics, advanced metabolomics, and structural biology to analyze the molecular contents of cells, tissues, plants, and ecosystems. Then we use computational biology to make predictions about how these systems respond to change. Finally, we even manipulate the systems using synthetic biology to take steps to design biological solutions that make the world a better place.
Scientific Discovery
PNNL scientists conduct fundamental research to explore new horizons—both large and small—to better understand natural systems and processes, and to make the world safer and more secure. Our capabilities in biology, chemistry, Earth sciences, data science, and materials science are central to the discovery mission we embrace.
Human Health
PNNL scientists specialize in the use of omics technologies, such as metabolomics, lipidomics, and genomics, to gain a closer look at activity at the molecular level.