RESEARCH ASSOCIATE - Mining and Explosives Engineering #00097573

Mining and Explosives Engineering

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Associate to lead research on optimizing electrospinning processes for the development of novel nanomaterials targeting the extraction and recovery of critical minerals. The successful candidate will play a key role in advancing research at the interface of materials synthesis, separation science, and sustainable resource recovery.

Research Focus (including but not limited to):

• Electrospinning process optimization for functional nanofibrous materials
• Design and synthesis of nanomaterials for critical minerals extraction and recovery
• Separation technologies such as adsorption, ion exchange, membrane-based processes, and hybrid systems
• Application of nanomaterials to mineral processing, hydrometallurgy, and mine water treatment

Responsibilities:

• Conduct independent, high-impact research within existing funded projects
• Optimize electrospinning parameters and translate materials performance to extraction applications
• Contribute to proposal writing and development of new research directions
• Publish high-quality papers in leading peer-reviewed journals

This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research addressing critical minerals supply challenges through innovative nanomaterials and processing technologies.

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a closely related field
• Demonstrated experience with electrospinning and/or functional nanomaterials synthesis
• At least one first-author publication in a reputable international journal relevant to the research area
• Strong English writing and oral communication skills
• Proven ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative research team

Position Open Until Filled

University Information
Missouri S&T is one of the nation's leading research universities with over 100-degree programs in 39 disciplines. It was founded in 1870 as one of the first technological institutions west of the Mississippi River. Located about 100 miles west of St. Louis in the vibrant community of Rolla, Missouri S&T is an accessible, safe, and friendly campus surrounded by Ozarks' scenery. Missouri S&T offers undergraduate degrees in engineering, the sciences, liberal arts, humanities, and business, with M.S. and Ph.D. programs available in many of the science and engineering programs. With over 7,000 students and 300 faculty, Missouri S&T is big enough to accommodate a broad population, yet small enough for individuals to build high visibility and impactful careers.

COLLEGE of ENGINEERING & COMPUTING (CEC)
Missouri S&T's College of Engineering and Computing is the largest of three colleges at S&T, accounting for approximately 80% of the total enrollment (about 4,500 undergraduates and 800 graduate students). The college includes more than 170 ranked faculty members who serve in 16 undergraduate programs, all with master's and doctoral equivalents organized into nine academic departments. The college recently added a bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering and a Ph.D. in bioengineering, both starting in fall 2024. Missouri S&T, supported by the College of Engineering and Computing, is nationally recognized for its career outcomes and ROI.

About Rolla
Rolla, Missouri offers several great advantages that help individuals enjoy a high quality of life. Rolla is an ideal place for families, with its low cost of living, excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a range of recreational activities suitable for all ages. The Ozark Scenic Riverways and beautiful landscapes offers abundant opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts of every lifestyle. With its vibrant community, Rolla hosts multiple events, concerts, art exhibitions, and theater performances throughout the year. The university's Leach Theatre showcases nationally renowned performers for campus and community alike. Overall, living in Rolla offers a high quality of life with a supportive community, affordable living, beautiful natural surroundings, and numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.

This position is not eligible for University benefits. Individuals in non benefit eligible positions may choose to participate in the Tax Deferred Annuity Plan (403b). For information about this plan, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 573-341-7734.