Mineral Processing & Metallurgy - Pyrometallurgy R5

Responsible for overseeing multiple metallurgical research related projects or a single, complex project spanning several years. Possesses in-depth subject matter knowledge of extractive metallurgy, especially in the field of pyrometallurgy (reduction, smelting, sintering, pelletization, and other high temperature processes). Creates project plans in concert with the team ensuring that resources and staff are in place to meet scope, schedule, budget, and quality requirements. Decisions are guided by policies, procedures, and business plans; and receive guidance and oversight from the manager. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work in a multidisciplinary environment that emphasizes advancing scientific understanding in high temperature and translating research outcomes into industrial applications or high TRL.

This position is located in Coleraine, Minnesota.

Develop, Design, and Oversee Complex Research Projects (40%)

• Designs, plans, implements, and evaluate complex research projects/systems, specifically related to metallurgy with a particular focus in pyrometallurgy.
• Conduct research investigations from experimental design to interpretation of experimental results.
• Evaluate, suggest alternate methods, modify or develop new procedures and techniques to aid in the investigation of a research problem or project.
• Lead complex research projects.
• Contribute as a team member on multidisciplinary projects.
• Monitor and control projects to scope, schedule, and budget.
• Contribute to the development and execution of research programs
• Provide technical support to taconite plants, industry and agencies to deliver recommendations aimed at improving unit performance.

Subject Matter Expertise (20%)

• Conduct simulations and calculations for metallurgical systems.
• Remain current on technological and scientific developments in the field of metallurgy.
• Expertise in phase transformations, thermodynamics, and reaction kinetics of metallurgical systems.
• Experience with computational tools for thermodynamic modeling (e.g., HSC Chemistry, FactSage).
• Experience in developing sustainable processes for metallurgical industries (e.g., energy-efficient methods, waste valorization).
• Familiarity with advanced characterization techniques, such as EPMA, SEM-EDS, XRD, heating microscopy, or TGA.
• Ensure quality of research data and analyze data and preparation of reports and papers on results of the work including peer reviewed journals.
• Capability to assist in drafting large proposals to procure research funding.
• Provide mentorship to junior scientists and technicians as necessary

Business Development, Client Management, and Project Management (15%)

• Engage in Client Management for Business & Industry-funded projects.
• Develop scopes of work and deliver proposals to clients.
• Apply new developments within the field of specialty to experimental plans.
• Prepare research for presentation at relevant conferences and symposiums.
• Actively participate in relevant conferences and symposiums.
• Interact with various agencies to acquire and interpret data, develop novel methods for analyzing data using programming, model building, and database development and management.

Operational Functions (15%)

• Modifies practices and procedures to improve quality.
• Advise on the operation and maintenance of high-temperature experimental equipment such as furnaces, kilns, and reactors.
• Understanding of the safety protocols required for high-temperature operations in the laboratory.
• Explores ways to better achieve end results through scheduling work steps, arranging/re-arranging the way work is performed.
• Streamline current test methods and procedures.
• Formulates and implements short- and long-range goals for the operation of the lab, as a PI, including determination of scientific techniques, use of equipment, and administrative procedures; may supervise exempt and non-exempt staff.

Other duties as assigned (10%)

Required Qualifications:

• MS in metallurgy, materials, chemical engineering, process engineering, or related field with one or more years of Research experience/training.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Prior experience working in diverse teams, being able to collaborate respectfully with staff of various educational and cultural backgrounds and ability to appropriately navigate complex team dynamics.
• Valid US driver's license with clean driving record.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Doctoral/advanced degree or Master's with 2-3 years experience in research or industry related to pyrometallurgy
• Experience with pyrometallurgical simulations and systems (e.g., FactSage, HSC Chemistry)
• Familiar with advanced computational techniques
• Experience in ironmaking and/or steelmaking
• Knowledge of mineralogy and mineral processing

May be required to wear respirators at times based upon the material being processed; will require annual respirator fit testing. This person will work in an industrial environment and will need to lift up to 50 lbs, carry, and handle chemicals.

Situated near Minnesota's minerals and forestry resource-based industries, NRRI's Coleraine Lab is a world-renowned center for minerals and biomass conversion and their connections to land, forest, and water resources. NRRI Coleraine possesses the facilities, equipment, and highly qualified staff to conduct applied research for private and public sector clients in Minnesota, North America and around the world. The lab has a wide range of equipment for conducting studies at both laboratories (grams/pounds) and pilot scales (tons). Laboratory and pilot scale capabilities include mineral characterization, mineral processing, metallurgy, and biomass conversion to energy and agronomic products.

Pay Range: $75k-95k; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75%-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

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have 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. For a completed application, please include a resume and cover letter.

This position will remain open until filled.

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.

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University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

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