Donovan Leonard Named Physical Science Director for Microscopy Society of America

Donovan Leonard, a researcher in the Deposition Science and Technology group at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), has been elected to a three-year term as the physical sciences director for the Microscopy Society of America (MSA).

Donovan Leonard of Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and now director of physical sciences at the Microscopy Society of America. Courtesy of Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Leonard’s research focus at ORNL has been on combining advanced electron microscopy and microanalysis with machine learning and additive manufacturing microstructure control to allow for predictive insight into material properties produced during electron and laser powder bed fusion manufacturing.

He has also been active in developing STEM-related educational outreach programs that emphasize the use of microscopy to explore the world. Those outreach efforts led to the installation of an electron microscope for students to gain hands-on experience when visiting the ORNL Traveling Science Fair.

Leonard has been involved in MSA since 1998 and has served in various roles, including chair of the educational outreach committee. He also serves as the director of the Microanalysis Society, a sister society to MSA.