Amanda Kolker is the laboratory program manager for Geothermal at NREL. She has more than 15 years of professional experience as a geothermal geologist, specializing in resource exploration and sustainable production of geothermal energy.

With a background in volcanology and geochemistry, Kolker has worked in academia, government, and private industry in the United States and abroad. She values multidisciplinary and innovative approaches to the energy question and enjoys working at the intersections of geoscience, policy, and economics.

Prior to her current role as laboratory program manager, Kolker joined NREL in 2019 as a research scientist, leading international research projects and consortia on exploration and resource assessment, innovative utilization of geothermal energy, energy resilience and equity, and other subjects. She serves as a thought leader in renewable energy strategy and integration efforts at NREL. 

Geothermal energy

Geology

Volcanology

Igneous petrology

Geochemistry

Sustainability

Community engagement

Renewable energy policy and economics