Assistant Professor - Rare Earths and Critical Minerals

North Carolina State University; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Retirement plans

PTO & holidays

Tuition assistance

Childcare benefits

Job summary

North Carolina State University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in the broadly-defined area of chemistry for Rare Earths and Critical Minerals, located in Raleigh, NC. The role encompasses research, teaching, and mentorship within the Department of Chemistry.

Candidates should address fundamental science of rare-earth elements, critical minerals, and related materials throughout their life cycle, and develop an externally funded program while contributing to

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution.
• Preferred: at least one year of postdoctoral experience.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work in teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead an independent research program and develop externally funded initiatives.
• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses and mentor students.
• Collaborate with researchers in NC State and the Research Triangle.
• Contribute to service and department activities.

Skills

Lead independent research

Mentorship

Teaching excellence

Education

PhD in Chemistry or closely related discipline

Job description

Posting Information

Posting Number: PG194980EP

Internal Recruitment: No

Working Title: Assistant Professor - Rare Earths and Critical Minerals

Anticipated Hiring Range: Commensurate with experience.

Work Schedule: Varies based on teaching/research schedule.

Job Location: Raleigh, NC

Department: Department of Chemistry

About the Department

The Department of Chemistry at NC State University provides professional education for chemists at the undergraduate and graduate levels; teaches introductory chemistry courses, which are needed by students enrolled in other department programs; advances the discipline of chemistry by conducting research; serves the public by sharing information about chemistry through a variety of mechanisms and services; and commits to creating environments that are in alignment with our mission, vision and values. Our department is home to award-winning faculty and is one of NC State's top producers of patent and invention disclosures. More information about the department can be found at https://chemistry.sciences.ncsu.edu/. While working in this department, you will be expected to foster a supportive and welcoming environment.

NC State promotes an integrated approach to problem solving that transforms lives and provides leadership for social, economic, and technological development across North Carolina and around the world. NC State's land grant mission of teaching, research and service is dedicated to the service of North Carolina and its people. Applicants are encouraged to review the institution's mission, vision and strategic plan, and consider how their background, interest and experience would enable them to support the university.

Wolfpack Perks and Benefits

As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

What we offer:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retirement Programs
• Disability Plans
• Life Insurance
• Accident Plan
• Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
• 12 Holidays Each Year
• Tuition and Academic Assistance
• And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.

Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.

Essential Job Duties

The Department of Chemistry at North Carolina State University invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor in the broadly-defined area of Chemistry for Rare Earths and Critical Minerals.

We seek candidates addressing the fundamental science of rare-earth elements, critical minerals, and strategically important materials across their life cycle - from separations, recovery, and molecular recognition to characterization, transformation, materials synthesis, recycling and reuse. The theme is intentionally broad to recruit an outstanding chemist from any major chemistry subdiscipline: analytical chemistry (for example, topics include elemental speciation, identification, sensing, and process monitoring); organic chemistry (selective ligands, receptors, extractants, membranes, and functional materials); physical chemistry/spectroscopy (electronic structure, photophysics, magnetism, interfaces, and mechanisms); inorganic chemistry (coordination, extraction, and critical-element compounds); and materials chemistry (magnets, catalysts, phosphors, semiconductors, and energy materials).

Key Responsibilities

• Lead an independent research program and engage in collaborative research at North Carolina State University and the Research Triangle.
• Develop a robust, externally funded research program.
• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses at NC State, demonstrating a commitment to excellence in education and mentorship.
• Mentor graduate students and other trainees and scholars.

Other Responsibilities

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience: Candidates must possess a PhD in Chemistry or a closely related discipline to be considered for this position. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Other Required Qualifications

N/A

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated record of research accomplishments, evidenced by publications and presentations at leading conferences.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including contributions to scientific teams.
• Commitment to excellence in teaching at the undergraduate and graduate level.
• Commitment to excellence in mentorship of graduate students and other scientists.
• At least one year of postdoctoral experience is strongly desired.

Required License(s) or Certification(s)

N/A

Valid NC Driver's License required

No

Commercial Driver's License required

No

Recruitment Dates

Job Open Date: 10/21/2026

Anticipated Close Date: 11/17/2026 (If the posting is still active after this date, applications are still being accepted and will be reviewed.)

Position Details

Position Number: 00112400

Position Type: Tenured/Tenure-Track Faculty

Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week): 1.0

Appointment: 9 Month Recurring

Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather: Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather

Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events: Non Mandatory - Emergency Event

Department ID: 170701 - Chemistry

EEO

NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at [phone] or [e-mail].

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.