SRNL: SRNL Names Dr. James Klein as 2021 Don Orth Award Recipient

Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) today announced that it has
selected Dr. James (Jim) Klein as the recipient of the laboratory’s 2021Donald Orth Lifetime Achievement
Award, the highest honor given by the laboratory for technical excellence and leadership.
Dr. Klein was chosen because of his expertise and leadership in tritium process science and technology,
which he is recognized across the Department of Energy (DOE) and National Nuclear Security
Administration (NNSA).
“For many years, Dr. Klein’s expertise in tritium process science and technology has been instrumental in
the success of SRNL meeting its DOE and NNSA missions,” said SRNL Laboratory Director Dr. Vahid Majidi.
“This award recognizes Dr. Klein’s dedication, leadership and commitment to putting science to work to
benefit our nation.”
In his 34-year career at SRNL, Dr. Klein was instrumental in leading research and development activities
and life-cycle support for tritium system and facility design, start-up, operations, and decommissioning.
Among his many accomplishments, Dr. Klein led the implementation of the tritium In-Bed Accountability
(Calorimetry) technique for large metal hydride beds, which is now the internationally accepted
measurement method for this technology.
“It is humbling and a great honor to receive this award,” said Dr. Klein. “It has been a privilege to work
with and learn from many smart and talented people throughout my career. My opportunities to learn
continue as I interact with newer SRNL researchers who are the future of the lab.”
The Orth Award is the highest honor given by the laboratory for technical excellence and leadership.
Established in 1993, the award was named for the late Dr. Donald Orth, who retired from SRNL in 1992
after a distinguished 41-year career. The award was established to honor an individual “who by character
and leadership best exemplifies Dr. Orth’s character and contributions.”