Rolf Weberg Ph.D.

Professional Title
Executive Director

Position and Focus

Dr. Weberg assumed leadership of the University of Minnesota Duluth’s Natural Resources Research Institute in March 2014 after a 25-year industrial career. As Executive Director, he is responsible for the operation, integration and performance of the Institute and its 130 full time and 40+ part time and student employees in fulfilling the University of Minnesota’s applied research role in natural resource management and economic development as chartered by the Minnesota Legislature in 1983.

Today, NRRI is recognized as a model for bridging between the University of Minnesota and state stakeholders to define, develop and deliver research solutions that balance economic development and entrepreneurial support with natural resource and environmental management. Dr. Weberg works to build productive relationships with Institute constituents including industry, business, agency partners, environmental leaders and Minnesota communities.

Experience and Education

Dr. Weberg grew up in Mankato, Minnesota and attended the University of Minnesota Duluth where he graduated with a BS degree in Chemistry (1982). He received a PhD in Inorganic/Organometallic Chemistry from the University of Colorado, Boulder (1986). After two post-doctoral appointments, he embarked upon a 25-year career in the R&D division of the DuPont Company. He left DuPont in 2014 as the Global Technology Manager for DuPont’s Building Innovations Business – Surfaces Division.

NRRI News Articles

Applied research institute was formed as a legislative tool for more informed decision-making.

University legislative funding request includes $10M to enhance research infrastructure at NRRI Duluth and Coleraine Labs

Despite all the uncertainties as we entered 2021, NRRI continues to push forward in fulfilling our mission to Minnesota and the region.