The practicum experience is one of the major aspects that distinguishes the DOE CSGF.  For three months, usually in the summer, students join a research team at one of the Department of Energy’s national laboratories.  It’s more than a summer job — fellows take on projects that are distinct from their doctoral research.  It has changed some career paths.

These stories describing four students’ practica demonstrate the impact of the experience.  Each faced new challenges, ventured into new areas, and learned the topography of the national laboratory system.  They may be headed to a lab near you.

	Tracking Wal-Marts to Make Better Maps David Potere Oak Ridge National Laboratory
	Model Puts a Charge on Nanotube Loops Aron Cummings Sandia National Laboratories - California
	Project Puts Proteins on Fast Track to Classification Bonnie Kirkpatrick Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
	Simulation “Bumps” Nanotubes Brandon Wood Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory