From Physics Research to AI Impact

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the scientific landscape, creating both new interdisciplinary opportunities and new challenges in adapting to a fast‑changing research environment. In this talk I will share my career journey from graduate research in astrophysics at the University of Colorado Boulder, where I studied planetary plasma physics and star–planet interactions, to my current role in applied AI research at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and concurrent contractor role with the Department of Energy (DOE). My work at NREL has included advancing autonomous laboratory technologies, improving the energy efficiency and grid integration of data centers, and developing surrogate modeling techniques. In my present position as a contractor with the DOE, I support efforts to expand the impact of AI in the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) mission areas, understand how AI will shape those missions, and develop AI educational opportunities for program office staff. I will highlight lessons learned about navigating career transitions, building cross‑disciplinary skills, and preparing for the growing role of AI in scientific research.