Project Scientist, Membrane-Based Mineral Recovery

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST); Gaithersburg (MD); On-site; USD 75,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

NIST is seeking a Critical Minerals Recovery Specialist to lead original research on functionalized polymeric membranes and sorbents used to recover critical minerals from acidic waste streams.

The role emphasizes independent design of instrumentation, advanced analytics, and collaboration with scientists across NIST and external partners to align measurement platforms with national mineral priorities.

Qualifications

• Degree in physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering with chemistry coursework and calculus, plus physics.
• Or combination of education and experience meeting the basic requirements.
• One year of specialized experience at GS-9 level or equivalent required.
• Specialized experience includes separations with polymer membranes and sorbents; characterization of ion-containing polymers; ITC measurements.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of measurement platforms for polymer membranes and sorbents in acidic leachates.
• Develop instrumentation, refine analytical methods, and evaluate binding mechanisms.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams across NIST and industry/stakeholders.
• Publish findings and contribute foundational data for membranes and sorbents.

Skills

Polymer membranes

Sorbents

Separation methods

Ion-containing polymers

ITC measurements

Education

Bachelor's degree in physical sciences, life sciences, or engineering

Master's degree or higher

Tools

Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC)

Job description

NIST is seeking a Critical Minerals Recovery Specialist to lead original research on functionalized polymeric membranes and sorbents used to recover critical minerals from acidic waste streams.

The role emphasizes independent design of instrumentation, advanced analytics, and collaboration with scientists across NIST and external partners to align measurement platforms with national mineral priorities.