Chairman Chuck Fleischmann Speaks to the National Lab Research SLAM Finalists

Washington, DC - U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), released the statement below following his appearance prior to the Department of Energy's third annual National Lab Research SLAM competition.

Three years ago, the Department of Energy hosted a collaborative research competition displaying the vast knowledge and expertise from all 17 National Laboratories in the United States Capitol. Our National Lab System is at the cutting edge of addressing science's most pressing challenges including artificial intelligence, energy technology, advanced materials, national security, and beyond. The National Lab Research SLAM competition empowers early career researchers from our National Laboratories to communicate groundbreaking science to broad audiences. One researcher represents their respective National Lab and presents their research to a panel of esteemed judges in the nation's capital.

"As Chairman of the House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, I have the opportunity to witness the best and brightest working on the hardest scientific and technological challenges, but the National Labs Research SLAM stands out as a favorite of mine. The most promising young researchers from across the United States represent their respective National Labs right here in Washington, D.C. presenting their incredible research and earning the recognition of their peers in the research community. We cannot take for granted that the United States will lead in science and technology as we have for decades. The outstanding young men and women in this competition represent our best hope for an even better future," said Rep. Fleischmann. "I support all 17 National Labs and I am incredibly proud to support these incredible scientific minds, but Oak Ridge National Lab (ORNL) of course has a special place in my heart. As Oak Ridge's representative in Congress, I will be cheering slightly louder for Bryan Conry of ORNL. I wish all the competitors the best because the true winners are the American people and ultimately the world that will benefit from their breakthroughs and innovations!"