Research Geochemist

Salary/Position Classification

• $64,800-$90,700 annual, Exempt
• 40 hours per week
• This position will work onsite the Grand Forks, ND campus.

Purpose of Position

Do you thrive in laboratory settings and want to apply your expertise to real-world energy and environmental challenges? Do you have a knack for chemical and geochemical analysis and a passion for research? We’re looking for a Research Geochemist to join our dynamic team at the Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC)!

Join the EERC, an international leader in energy and environmental research and a nonprofit branch of the University of North Dakota (UND), which gives our employees access to unbeatable benefits and tuition waivers. Learn more about the EERC at undeerc.org.

Be a part of cutting-edge research, engage with professionals who share your passion, and create work you can be proud of. As a Research Geochemist, you will contribute to the success of the organization by performing one or more of the following:

• Work in strong collaboration with EERC subject matter experts, principal investigators, and EERC leadership to conduct laboratory analyses and experiments and interpret laboratory data to support research activities related to energy development, carbon management and development of natural resources.    
• Work as part of a diverse, multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers to ensure that laboratory work is successfully completed on time, on budget, and within client expectations.
• Perform analytical research focused on chemical and geochemical evaluation of critical minerals, various combustion fuels and by-products, catalysts, water, oil, rocks, and other natural and man-made materials.
• Ensure that laboratory data and results are of excellent quality and integrated with the theoretical, modeling, and field components of related EERC research efforts.
• Adhere to laboratory safety protocols and assist in regular reviews and updates of laboratory safety plans. 
• Work closely with senior staff, project managers, and laboratory staff to develop and expand the research-based efforts in the laboratories.
• Provide technical assistance on projects related to critical minerals and rare earth element analysis, extraction, separation, and purification; geologic materials characterization; and/or the evaluation of geochemical reactions between fluids/gases and geologic formations, cements, metals, and/or other man-made materials.
• Travel as necessary.

The EERC is recognized as a global leader in developing clean, efficient energy solutions. With a dedicated team, we collaboratively develop innovative technologies to power the world efficiently while safeguarding our air, water, and soil. Trusted by over 1300 clients in 53 countries, our mission is to provide practical, pioneering solutions to the world’s energy and environmental challenges. 

Required Competencies

• Experience working on applied scientific research projects in the field of geochemistry
• Hands-on experience with analytical instrumentation maintenance and light repair/modifications
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated laboratory experience focused on geochemistry
• Strong self-directed work approach and 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 with attention to detail
• Experience preparing proposals, technical reports, and documents and preparing and delivering technical presentations

Minimum 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, adherence to and implementation of laboratory safety, and quality assurance/quality control protocols
• Demonstrated experience in one or more of the following areas: critical minerals analysis, extraction, separation, and purification; the analysis and evaluation of subsurface media and/or fluids as they pertain 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
• Cover letter and resume/CV
• Successful completion of a Criminal History Background Check

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the US and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. This position does not support visa sponsorship for continued employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in analytical chemistry, geochemistry, chemical engineering
• At least 5 years of scientific research experience working in the energy or mining industry, at a research facility, a national laboratory, or a commercial laboratory
• Demonstrated experience cultivating, developing, proposing, and executing topically 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 with one or more of the following: experimental design, analytical methods development, gas chromatography and hydrocarbon analysis, or geochemistry
• Author or coauthor on papers published in peer-reviewed journals and/or international conference proceedings

To Apply

To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by October 29, 2026.