Dr. Amy M. Elliott leads the Robotics & Intelligent Systems group at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where she directs research at the intersection of advanced manufacturing, materials science, and robotics. Her work focuses on developing transformative manufacturing methods for energy, national security, and space applications, emphasizing scalable solutions that link materials behavior with design and automation.
With more than 20 issued U.S. patents, two R&D 100 Awards, and numerous high-impact publications, Dr. Elliott has established herself as one of the leading innovators in additive manufacturing. Her research spans a wide range of topics—from the additive fabrication of ceramics, metals, and composites to robotics-enabled component assembly and process automation. She is internationally recognized for pioneering ordered TRISO nuclear fuel architectures using additive manufacturing, a breakthrough that enables precise spatial control of fuel microstructure for enhanced safety and performance in advanced reactors and space-power systems.
Dr. Elliott’s cross-disciplinary portfolio also includes the development of neutron-collimation components, magnetic materials, and high-efficiency thermal management systems. Her work bridges multiple scales—from nanoscale coatings and imaging-based process control to macroscale structural systems—and embodies a deep integration of materials science, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing design.
In addition to her scientific achievements, Dr. Elliott is a nationally recognized STEM communicator and advocate. She serves as an AAAS IF/THEN Ambassador, a program that highlights women leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to inspire the next generation. Her outreach initiatives include the Amelia Gearheart educational series and numerous public engagements such as Smithsonian exhibitions, national television appearances, and STEM events nationwide. Through these efforts, she works to make science more visible, approachable, and inclusive for students and young professionals.
Her contributions have been recognized with honors including the ASME Top 25 Early Career Engineers (2024), ORNL Distinguished Inventor Award (2024), and the ASTM International Additive Manufacturing Young Professional Award (2021).
