Rare Earth Exchanges

Summary of the Position: Research Professional I – Critical Mineral/Rare Earth Element Extraction & Separation

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Highlights

  • Full-time research role at University of Wyoming’s School of Energy Resources
  • Focus on extracting rare earth elements and critical minerals from Wyoming’s waste streams
  • Offers competitive salary range of $65,000-$90,000
  • Opportunities to advance U.S. domestic mineral production
  • Aims to reduce foreign supply chain dependencies
  • Requires minimum bachelor’s degree in relevant field
  • Preference for chemical engineering background
  • Lab experience in extraction processes is preferred

University of Wyoming | Laramie, WY. This full-time, on-site research position focuses on the extraction and separation of rare earth elements (REEs) and critical minerals from sources such as coal waste streams, overburden, and under burden in Wyoming. The researcher will work under the School of Energy Resources (SER) to support applied energy research aimed at economic development and commercialization of Wyoming’s mineral resources.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct laboratory experiments on rare earth and critical mineral extraction.
  • Develop and optimize separation processes for extracted materials.
  • Analyze experimental data and troubleshoot process inefficiencies.
  • Collaborate on commercial-scale implementation of successful extraction methods.

    Participate intechnoeconomic and life-cycle analysis for industrial applications.* Assist in grant proposal development and implementation.

  • Present research findings through reports, presentations, and publications.
  • Ensure safety protocols and maintain laboratory functionality.

Qualifications:

Minimum:

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Physics, Geochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Data Science, etc.).
  • Valid driver’s license (for travel needs).

Preferred:

  • MS in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
  • 1-3 years of lab experience in extraction and separation processes.
  • Familiarity with Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA).
  • Industry experience in mineral processing and process commercialization.
  • Experience with grant-funded programs and interdisciplinary research.

Compensation & Work Environment:

  • Salary Range: $65,000–$90,000 per year.
  • Work Schedule: 40 hours per week, 25% travel expected.
  • Location: Laramie, Wyoming – offering proximity to energy research facilities and the Rocky Mountain region.

Why This Matters:

This role is crucial for advancing U.S. domestic rare earth element production, reducing dependence on foreign supply chains, and developing Wyoming’suntapped mineral resources. The researcher will play a key role in bridging lab-scale innovations with industrial commercialization, a critical step in securing a stable and sustainable supply of rare earth materials for the U.S. economy.

Interested candidates can apply here (opens in a new tab).

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