# Undergraduate Engagement in Neutron Scattering as a Pathway to U.S. Competitiveness and a Diverse Scientific Workforce

## TL;DR

Involving undergraduates in neutron scattering boosts U.S. scientific competitiveness and workforce diversity.

## Contribution

Demonstrates how early engagement in neutron scattering fosters a diverse and skilled scientific workforce.

## Key findings

- Undergraduate involvement in neutron scattering enhances hands-on training and mentorship.
- Early engagement increases confidence and scientific identity in students.
- Such programs support U.S. leadership in scientific discovery and innovation.

## Abstract

Engaging undergraduate students in neutron scattering
experiments
through beamtime trips, student internships, or class visits is a
powerful driver of scientific progress in the United States. These
experiences provide hands-on exposure to advanced instrumentation,
mentorship from diverse scientists, and insight into large-scale research
infrastructure. By contributing meaningfully to proposal development,
sample preparation, data collection, and data analysis, students develop
confidence, scientific identity, and a sense of belonging, particularly
those from underrepresented backgrounds. Early engagement cultivates
a skilled and motivated scientific workforce, strengthens the capabilities
and mission of national laboratories, and ensures continued U.S. leadership
in discovery and innovation.