Postdoctoral Scholar Center Critical Minerals EMS Energy Institute

Position Overview

The Center for Critical Minerals (C2M) at EMS Energy Institute/Penn State invites applications for a full‑time Postdoctoral Scholar position to conduct cutting‑edge research in extracting critical minerals, including rare earth elements, from primary and secondary sources. This position will work on scaling up a three‑stage process developed by Penn State to process 10,000 gallons per day of acid mine drainage to extract critical minerals.

Successful candidates report to and work with the Center for Critical Minerals director.

• Conduct both applied and fundamental research involving mineral processing and hydro/pyrometallurgical processes; pilot‑scale research operations desirable.
• Assist in research proposals.
• Document research findings in reports and referred journals.

• Hold a Ph.D. in engineering or a related discipline by the start date.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to work in teams.

• Application cover letter highlighting relevant experience.
• Curriculum vitae with educational background, employment history, and a list of publications, research projects worked on, and role played.
• Contact information for three professional references.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees. For Postdoctoral benefits, please see the Postdoctoral Benefits page.

Contact:
Sarma Pisupati (sxp
17) for inquiries.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact .