Careers at Virginia Tech

The Department of Mining & Minerals Engineering at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) is currently accepting applications for a senior research associate position. The Senior Research Associate will work in Dr. Aaron Noble’s laboratory and support ongoing and new research in the broad area of critical mineral processing and production. This position offers an exciting and challenging opportunity to develop and advance our department’s research, while advancing one’s own professional development and scholarly profile. Specific areas of focus include material characterization and analysis, laboratory testing and process development, process modeling and simulation, techno-economic analysis, and life cycle analysis.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be expected to:
* Participate in ongoing sponsored research projects, particularly in the broad realm of rare earth element recovery from unconventional resources, specific focus areas will be identified based on the candidates interest and aptitude.
* While working under the direction of a senior faculty, provide input and participate in project ideation, including the design and initiation of research projects, stakeholder interaction, and goal/milestone setting.
* While working under the direction of a senior faculty, provide input and participate in research project management and execution including setting priorities, monitoring budgets, measuring progress, and facilitating project budget and scope modifications.
* Conduct laboratory experiments, field work, and/or computational studies, using both standard and on-standard procedures, while ensuring adherence to rigorous scientific standards and safety protocols.
* Lead the development of sponsor required reports as well as scholarly manuscripts detailing research findings for publication in high-quality journals.
* Deliver presentations at technical forums and conferences to disseminate research findings and foster collaboration within the scientific community.
* Collaborate in the development of new proposals for sponsored research projects, demonstrating innovative thinking and a thorough understanding of the research landscape.
* Provide supervision, mentorship, and guidance to graduate and undergraduate researchers, fostering a collaborative and supportive research environment.
* Independently pursue additional research projects and publications in alignment with career goals and research interests.

* A Doctorate or terminal degree in engineering, with at least one degree in mining engineering, minerals engineering, metallurgical engineering, chemical engineering, or a related field.
* Demonstrated experience in a relevant industrial, academic, or government position.
* Demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to effectively manage and collaborate with diverse team members.
* Proficiency in communication, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts effectively.
* Strong work ethic, exceptional time management skills, and a keen eye for detail.
* A steadfast commitment to upholding safety standards in laboratory and field settings.
* Willingness to travel occasionally to attend conferences and meetings.

* Practical experience and expertise in mineral processing and/or hydrometallurgical operations.
* Advanced knowledge in the areas of critical mineral characterization and analysis, process development, process modeling and simulation, techno-economic analysis, and/or life cycle analysis.
* Experience in research project design and initiation, including project conception, stakeholder interaction, and/or goal/milestone setting
* Experience in research project management, including budget preparation and monitoring, progress reporting, and scope management
* Professional Engineer (PE) or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) designation.

Restricted

Commensurate with experience up to budget maximum

40

April 8, 2025

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.