Assistant Research Scientist

***Please note this position is NOT eligible for sponsorship***

This intermediate-level research position is responsible for the execution and management of comprehensive research projects related to the origin and occurrence of natural resources. The successful candidate must have significant training and experience in one or more of the following areas: Mineralogy, Petrology, Geochemistry and Structural Geology and a demonstrated record of successful execution and completion of research projects in areas of specialized interest. The successful candidate will work on a wide variety of projects, including but not limited to 1) examination of geological characteristics of natural resources; 2) fieldwork, sample-collection, laboratory sample preparation; 3) petrographic studies of collected samples; 4) contributing to analytical reports and participating in group efforts to prepare manuscripts for publication. The researcher will be expected to contribute to ongoing collaborative research programs across the Institute. Predominantly day trips but occasional overnight travel to field locations and to external labs will be needed for up to 15% of the time.

Travel will be needed for fieldwork and sample collection. Lab work will include sample studies in hand and under microscope. Visiting external labs for sample analysis and data collection will be needed from time to time. Lifting heavy objects up to 40 lbs. might be occasionally required.

The researcher will work under the supervision of an NRRI research manager to engage in research and associated activities such as project development, management of resources, and team leadership to achieve the strategic objectives of the Institute. The position leverages Institute policies and procedures and applies project management skills in concert with their technical expertise to manage day-to-day research activities.

Project Development 50 %
As a key contributor in the research organization, this position is responsible for the execution of existing, integrated, multi-disciplinary research projects in Geology involving 1) ferrous and non-ferrous mineral resources, 2) initiatives in the creation and development of a renewable energy infrastructure; 3) pathways to minimize the industrial emission of carbon, consistent with state and federal government policies and the strategic research objectives of the Institute. The work will include partnership with institutes such as universities, national labs, industry, and state and federal government. The researcher may travel to field locations, collaborate with workers, collect field and drill-core samples, and engage in a group effort on sample collection, sample inspection, sample preparation, and generation of analytical data. Strong project management skills and excellent oral and written communication skills will be crucial in reaching these objectives.

Research Funding 20%
The research scientist is expected to help generate research funding from internal and external sources contributing to the preparation of professional, competitive grant proposals. It is expected that the research scientist will coordinate and collaborate across the Institute as well as the University of Minnesota System to ensure that project budget, schedule, and scope fulfill granting agency requirements.

Publications 20%
The researcher will participate with the supervisor and co-workers in research teams in the preparation and writing of project reports and manuscripts. The research scientist is expected to contribute to the preparation of peer-reviewed articles, technical reports, client reports, professional presentations, and outreach materials as appropriate.

Operational Assistance 10%
The researcher is expected to contribute expertise to mineral processing, and to industry service contracts across the Institute. The researcher will acquire, analyze, interpret, and report mineralogical data to support research and external sales projects. The researcher will review established operational policies and procedures related to research activities of the Institute. The researcher will practice and uphold Institute core values, including a robust safety and respectful work environment.
 

Required Qualifications: 

• BS/BA plus 4 years applicable experience or MS plus 2 years applicable experience in geological sciences or in related areas of study from an accredited college or university in one or more of the following areas: mineralogy, igneous and metamorphic petrology, structural geology, and high temperature geochemistry
• Demonstrated knowledge of geology and mineral resources
• Experience in geological fieldwork.
• Experience in drill core collection and inspection.
• Proficiency with petrological microscopes and the development of comprehensive lithogeochemical models of rock systems.
• Proficiency in written and oral English.
• Experience in working with collaborative teams.
• Lifting heavy objects up to 40 lbs. might be occasionally required.
• Working in rugged terrains and visiting mining and industrial locations are expected occasionally
• Must possess a valid US Drivers License

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in geospatial analysis using Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
• Proficiency in Lith geochemical software such as ioGAS and IGPET.
• Knowledge and experience in the geology of the Great Lakes Region.
• Experience using mineralogical techniques and analytical methods such as MLA/QEMSCAN, XRD, Electron Microprobe (EPMA) and X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry (XRF).
• A record of publishing peer-reviewed articles and geological maps.
• Experience in project management, execution, and reporting.

The Natural Resources Research Institute was established by the Minnesota legislature in 1983 as an applied science and engineering research organization to inform state citizens and decision-makers while leveraging the power of the University of Minnesota. NRRI is guided by the forward-looking charter provided by the Legislature to foster the economic development of Minnesota’s natural resources in an environmentally sound manner to promote private sector employment. 

NRRI’s mission is to deliver integrated research solutions that value our resources, environment, and economy for a sustainable and resilient future. We are a mission-driven, project-focused team working to create opportunities for natural resource stewardship. With industrial-scale facilities in Duluth and Coleraine, MN, NRRI works across five strategic research platforms. These platforms address Minnesota’s soil, forest, water, and mineral resources:

• Applied Ecology and Resource Management
• Minerals and Metallurgy
• Materials and Bioeconomy
• Data Collection and Delivery
• Commercialization Services

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you’ll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning.  We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services 
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, visit the UMN Careers site and search for job ID 360188.  You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a Cover Letter and Resume. You are required to attach a Cover letter and Resume. Please apply before April 19th to ensure full consideration, the position is open until filled. 

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.

Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university.  A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).