b'LDRD OVERVIEWINLs LDRD Portfolio DOE LDRD OBJECTIVESIMISSION AGILITY n 1991, DOE with the approval of the US Congress established the LDRD program as a means for the laboratories to devote a relatively small portion (maximumEnable agile responses to national security, of 6%) of their research effort to creative and innovative work to maintainenergy, and environmental challenges.their scientific and technical vitality in disciplines relevant to energy and nationalSCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL VITALITY security missions. Truly, LDRD serves as a proving ground for advanced research andAdvance the frontiers of science, development concepts that may not have been otherwise pursued through directtechnology, and engineering.programmatic funding sources.INLs diverse LDRD portfolio explores a range of scientific and engineering conceptsWORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT through technically sound, innovative, and novel research projects. The LDRDAttract, retain, and develop tomorrows program stimulates exploration in basic and applied science and engineering. Thescientific and technical workforce.LDRD portfolio comprises four investment components that are continually aligned with INLs vision, mission, and science and technology initiatives. The strategic research and development fund supports research that advances INLs science and technology initiatives. The seed fund supports high impact, innovative research that is aligned with INLs mission, even if not explicitly aligned with a science and technology initiative. Funds are available throughout the year to start these short-term, dollar-limited projects.The distinguished postdoc fund supports early career researchers in INLs three distinguished postdoctoral fellowships, providing them leadership opportunities while they conduct leading edge research that supports INLs mission. The strategic hire fund supports mid to late career researchers, providing opportunities to advance their scientific leadership while advancing INLs mission. 7'