Post-Doctoral Fellow - Metallurgical and Materials Engineering: Critical Materials Crossroads Engine

Colorado School of Mines Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher in the group of Prof. Jihye Kim.

About the role

The successful candidate’s responsibilities will include individual research, mentoring of undergraduate and graduate student researchers, potential classroom involvement, professional activities, and other special opportunities and assignments. The position is a 12-month full-time role with the expectation of renewal and the accomplishment of a substantial block of publishable research. The candidate will have opportunities to interact with researchers from industrial and federal laboratory communities and to develop skills and reputation to advance career opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Engage in the research activities of the Kim group.
• Conduct two or more research projects simultaneously, working with a high level of independence under the supervision of Prof. Kim.
• Design and perform hands-on extractive metallurgy experiments in line with project requirements.
• Analyze and interpret experimental results, and disseminate research findings through project meetings, peer-reviewed publications, and conference presentations.
• Help advise graduate and undergraduate students.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in metallurgy, chemical engineering, materials science, mining engineering, chemistry, or a related field, with demonstrated background and experience in extractive metallurgy, critical metals extraction, and waste recycling.
• Demonstrated experience in extractive metallurgical techniques such as leaching, solvent extraction, ion exchange, precipitation, crystallization, electrowinning, electrodeposition, comminution, magnetic/electrostatic/gravity separation, and flotation.
• Experience with process flowsheet development and process simulation software is highly desirable.
• Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary framework and interact closely with other team members at Mines and partner institutions.
• Ability to work independently, demonstrating initiative, strong organizational and written/verbal communication skills, and respect for project deadlines.
• Regular work with highly acidic, corrosive, and other hazardous chemicals; strict adherence to laboratory safety protocols and proper use of PPE is required.

Benefits

• Flexible health and dental care options.
• 13 paid holidays per year, including a week-long winter break for the entire campus.
• Fully vested retirement plan on the first day of employment, with generous employer contribution.
• Tuition benefits (6 credits per year for employees, 50% discount for dependents).
• Free RTD Ecopass for regional bus and light rail.
• Access to discount programs through the State of Colorado and free tickets for Mines Athletics home games.
• Access to the state-of-the-art Recreation Center (fitness classes, swimming pool, and more) and equipment rentals through the Outdoor Rec Center.
• On-campus daycare center.

Pay

Salary Rate: $70,000 annually.