NRRI Postdoc Material ElecChem

NRRI Organizational Job Title: Post-Doctoral Associate - Materials Electrochemistry - 9546 - $75,000- $80,000

The Minerals and Metallurgy group at the Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) is seeking up to two postdoctoral research positions to join our electrochemical technologies team. These positions will support current and future R&D programs that include one or more of the following areas:

1. Developing cutting-edge electrochemical approaches for recovering critical metals from primary and secondary sources
2. Fundamental and applied research on molten salt electrolyte systems and electrode materials, including electrolyte characterization, electrode design and synthesis, and performance evaluation for metal recycling and recovery
3. Electrometallurgical approaches for next-generation iron production technologies

This role offers a highly collaborative environment at the intersection of fundamental materials science, electrochemistry, and real-world industrial impact, supporting both state and federal research programs as well as industry partners. Publication of innovative research results in leading technical journals and presentation of findings at national and international technical conferences is expected.

Applications that do not clearly document how the applicant meets or exceeds all minimum requirements will not be further considered. Applicants that do not meet all preferred qualifications are still encouraged to apply. Note that experience with the specific types of contaminants and treatment/remediation technologies listed above is preferred but not required.

Job Duties:

• Performing high-level experimental, theoretical, and numerical research and data analysis on electrochemical systems, including molten salt electrolysis and iron electrowinning (55%)
• Preparing peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations, and contributing to sponsored research proposals (20%)
• Mentoring students and technicians engaged in related research projects (10%)
• Contributing to laboratory organization, management, and safe operation (10%)

• Other duties as assigned (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.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in electrochemistry, materials science, chemistry, chemical engineering, or a closely related STEM discipline obtained prior to the employment start date
• Hands-on laboratory experience in electrochemistry and electrochemical characterization techniques (e.g., cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, chronoamperometry)
• Demonstrated record of independent research, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations
• Valid U.S. driver's license issued by a U.S. state or territory to document the applicant's eligibility to drive university fleet vehicles

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with one or more of the following: electrodeposition, electrocatalysis, electrochemical synthesis, metallurgy, or corrosion
• Experience with high-temperature or molten salt electrolyte systems
• Track record of integrated computational and experimental approaches for studying electrochemical systems or phenomena
• Technical proficiency in programming, data processing, and scientific instrumentation (e.g., Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW)
• Ability to collaborate effectively with team members across diverse technical backgrounds and disciplines
• Experience mentoring students or junior researchers in a laboratory setting

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 Range: $75,000- $80,000 per year; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A 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.

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 provide with your application:

1. A cover letter describing your interest in the position and your qualifications and experience as they relate to the required and preferred qualifications
2. 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.

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).