"Postdoctoral Research Associate, Earth and Environmental Science, Umkc School of Science and Engineering"

Hiring Department

University of Missouri - Kansas City

School of Science and Engineering

Earth and Environmental Science - Natural and Building Environments

Minerals and Interfaces in Terrestrial environment High-Resolution Laboratory (MITHRIL)

The Minerals and Interfaces in Terrestrial environment High-Resolution Laboratory (MITHRIL) at UMKC studies the mineralogy and geochemistry of Earth surface conditions. The goals of the lab are to understand the fundamental geochemical processes controlling cycles of trace elements, including contaminants and critical elements, through adsorption on mineral surfaces, incorporation into crystal structure, and uptake by biomineralization processes. We use a combination of field observation, mineral synthesis, laboratory-and synchrotron-based X-ray techniques, (scanning) transmission electron microscopy, and geochemical methods to obtain an atomic resolution understanding to achieve these goals.

UMKC is rated R1 by the Carnegie Research Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

Job Description

The Minerals and Interfaces in Terrestrial environment High-Resolution Laboratory (MITHRIL) at University of Missouri-Kansas City invites applications for a postdoctoral research position, with an anticipated start date of February 1, 2026. This postdoc position will explore the fundamental interaction between critical elements and minerals at the Earth surface condition.

Responsibilities include...

• Conducting original research on the interactions of minerals and critical elements in aquatic systems using mineral synthesis, X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, synchrotron X-ray and complementary approaches.
• Preparing scientific findings for conferences and peer-reviewed publications.
• Mentoring undergraduate and graduate students.
• Assisting in laboratory management.
• Involving in grant proposal writing.

This is a 12-month, full-Time, benefit eligible, unranked academic position.

Qualifications

Applicants must have received their PhD. or equivalent degree (in mineralogy, low-temperature/environmental geochemistry, aquatic, soil, or marine chemistry, or related discipline) and all formal requirements for a PhD. must be completed before the start of the appointment.

A proven record of research accomplishments and have prior experience with wet chemistry and analytical techniques such as (XRD, SEM, TEM, Raman, UV-Vis, and/or ICP-OES/MS).

Demonstrated effective communication skills in a variety of settings. Applicants must write and converse fluently in English.

Anticipated Hiring Range

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Application Materials

To be considered, you must complete the application at https://www.umkc.edu/hr/careers/ including Legal Name, US employment eligibility, and current contact information. Upload all application materials (a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, a list of references).

If you are experiencing technical problems, please email umpshrsupport@umsystem.edu.

For questions about the position, please contact umkcfacultysearch@umkc.edu include the Job Identification number 57689 and name of the position.

Official transcripts will be required if a contract is extended.