Research Geochemist

University of North Dakota•Grand Forks, ND

25d•$64,800 - $90,700•Onsite

About The Position

The Research Geochemist conducts laboratory analyses and experiments, interprets laboratory data, and supports research in energy development, carbon management, and natural resource development at the Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC), a nonprofit branch of the University of North Dakota. The role involves applied chemical and geochemical evaluation of materials including critical minerals, combustion fuels and by-products, catalysts, water, oil, rocks, and other natural and man-made materials. The position works collaboratively with subject matter experts, principal investigators, leadership, project managers, and laboratory staff, as well as multidisciplinary teams of scientists and engineers, to deliver research within client expectations and on time and budget. It also supports high-quality data integration with theoretical, modeling, and field research; laboratory safety practices; and growth of research-based laboratory efforts. Technical assistance may include critical mineral and rare earth element analysis, extraction, separation, and purification; geologic materials characterization; and evaluation of geochemical reactions involving fluids or gases and geologic formations, cements, metals, or other man-made materials. Travel may be required. The position is onsite at the Grand Forks, North Dakota campus, and is classified as exempt at 40 hours per week. Applications must be received by October 29, 2026, for full consideration.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, geochemistry, or chemical engineering, with strong fundamental knowledge of geochemistry.
At least 2 years of experience working in a laboratory environment, including data analysis and processing, laboratory safety adherence and implementation, and quality assurance/quality control protocols.
Experience in at least one of the following: critical minerals analysis, extraction, separation, and purification; analysis and evaluation of subsurface media and/or fluids related to oil and gas development or subsurface storage of CO2, hydrogen, natural gas, or natural gas liquids; corrosion analysis and evaluation; solid and liquid fuels analysis; or brine characterization.
Experience working on applied scientific research projects in geochemistry.
Hands-on experience maintaining analytical instrumentation and performing light repairs or modifications.
Demonstrated laboratory experience focused on geochemistry.
Excellent communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.
Self-directed approach and strong organizational skills.
Knowledge of and willingness to learn new technologies.
Adherence to and promotion of good safety practices in the workplace and field.
Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.
Experience preparing proposals, technical reports, and documents, and preparing and delivering technical presentations.
Cover letter and resume/CV required.
Successful completion of a Criminal History Background Check.
Must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States; the position does not support visa sponsorship for continued employment.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree in analytical chemistry, geochemistry, or chemical engineering.
At least 5 years of scientific research experience in the energy or mining industry, at a research facility, national laboratory, or commercial laboratory.
Experience cultivating, developing, proposing, and executing relevant research opportunities aligned with the EERC’s core research portfolio.
Experience with inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry or inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectroscopy analysis of trace metals, including rare earth elements and other critical minerals.
Experience with X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, and field emission scanning electron microscopy.
Proficiency and experience in one or more of experimental design, analytical methods development, gas chromatography and hydrocarbon analysis, or geochemistry.
Authorship or coauthorship of papers published in peer-reviewed journals and/or international conference proceedings.

Responsibilities

Conduct laboratory analyses and experiments and interpret laboratory data to support research in energy development, carbon management, and natural resource development.
Perform analytical research evaluating critical minerals, combustion fuels and by-products, catalysts, water, oil, rocks, and other natural and man-made materials.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to complete laboratory work on time, within budget, and in accordance with client expectations.
Ensure laboratory data and results are high quality and integrated with theoretical, modeling, and field components of EERC research.
Follow laboratory safety protocols and assist with regular reviews and updates of laboratory safety plans.
Work with senior staff, project managers, and laboratory staff to develop and expand research efforts in the laboratories.
Provide technical assistance on critical minerals and rare earth element analysis, extraction, separation, and purification; geologic materials characterization; and/or evaluation of geochemical reactions involving fluids or gases and geologic formations, cements, metals, or other man-made materials.
Travel as necessary.