***Please note this position is NOT eligible for sponsorship***
The annual salary range for this position depends on qualifications and begins at $53,000.00
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.