Research Assistant in Acid Mine Drainage

Job Summary

We seek an hourly Research Assistant to work on a funded project studying the potential recovery of rare Earth elements from acid mine and acid rock drainage streams in the Colorado Rocky Mountains.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

As the University's oldest institute, INSTAAR has a long history of responding to pressing environmental issues including climate change. Our traditional focus has been on alpine, Arctic, and Antarctic regions, where effects of global change are especially pronounced. In recent decades, our research has broadened to include environmental challenges that span local, regional, and global scales. INSTAAR’s research activities integrate field studies, state-of-the-art laboratory experiments, sample analysis, and numerical and laboratory modeling.

Our field sites are located across all seven continents and the world's oceans.

Our expertise across disciplines helps us generate influential science that can inform public and policy decisions and move us toward a more sustainable society. INSTAAR's national and international research leadership is augmented by exceptional strength in graduate education and bringing undergraduates into the research process.

Field collection of stream data (pH, temperature, conductivity, oxygen, etc.) and water samples for dissolved metal analysis. Assistance with trace metal measurement by ICP-MS, and anion measurement by ion chromatography. Interpretation of data.

This is a temporary position during the summer of 2026.

$36/hour - $37/hour

Temporary positions at the University of Colorado are not benefits-eligible; however, all positions are eligible for paid sick leave.

Bachelor's degree in Earth or environmental science.

Experience with field methods related to stream waters, and laboratory methods related to water chemistry.

Familiarity or experience with acid mine drainage.

Please apply by 6/29/2026 for consideration.

Note:

Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.

Posting Contact Name:
Boulder Campus Human Resources

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