• Perform process development, experimental design, materials
characterization, and interpretation of metallurgical reaction
behavior and process performance (20%)
• Prepare peer-reviewed publications, technical reports,
conference presentations, and contribute to sponsored research
proposals (15%)
• Mentor technicians engaged in related research activities
(5%)
• Contribute to laboratory organization, equipment maintenance,
safety practices, and project coordination activities (5%)
Physical/Environmental Demands:
This position involves regular work in a chemistry and
electrochemistry laboratory environment. The incumbent will handle
hazardous materials (acids, bases, molten salts, solvents, and
reactive metals), requiring adherence to established safety
protocols, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and
compliance with University and NRRI laboratory safety standards.
Physical requirements include standing for extended periods,
handling laboratory equipment and instrumentation, and lifting
materials up to 25 lbs.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in metallurgical engineering, materials science,
extractive metallurgy, chemical engineering, or a closely related
STEM discipline
- Hands-on laboratory experience in high-temperature
metallurgical processing and thermal reaction systems
- Experience with furnace operation, reduction/oxidation,
smelting studies, thermal analysis, and metallurgical
characterization techniques
- Demonstrated record of independent research through
peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in pyrometallurgy, recycling of metallic materials,
alloy processing, or critical materials recovery
- Familiarity with high-temperature reaction kinetics,
thermodynamics, and process optimization
- Experience with analytical and characterization techniques such
as XRD, SEM-EDS/EPMA, ICP OES/MS, TGA/DSC, heating microscopy or
related methods
- Knowledge of thermodynamic and process simulation tools such as
FactSage, HSC Chemistry, Met Sim or related software
- Technical proficiency in data analysis, experimental design,
and scientific instrumentation
- Ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary
research and industrial teams
- Experience mentoring junior researchers in laboratory or
pilot-scale research environments
About the Department
About NRRI:
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
Pay and Benefits
Pay Range: $75,000- $80,000 per year; depending on
education/qualifications/experience
Time Appointment: 100% Appointment
Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor
Represented Staff
Please visit the
Office of Human Resources website for more
information regarding benefit eligibility.
The University 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
While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to
note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This
approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of
each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our
commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to
incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.
How To Apply
Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this
position, please click the Apply button and follow the
instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an
online application for the position and attach a cover letter and
resume.
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.
Please Attach:
- A cover letter describing your interest in the position and
your qualifications and experience as they relate to the required
and preferred qualifications, and
- A C.V. documenting your qualifications and accomplishments,
including publications and presentations.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please
e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.
Diversity
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
Employment Requirements
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.
About University of Minnesota
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
Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer
for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026,
we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards
recognition for employee appreciation and work-life
flexibility.
