Researcher- Brengman Lab

University of Minnesota; Duluth (MN); On-site; USD 39,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Minnesota, Duluth, is seeking a candidate to study economic geology by evaluating mineral and energy resources through detailed sample analysis. Responsibilities include preparing drill core samples for advanced characterization and interpreting results within a geological framework.

Minimum qualifications include an MS in petrology or geochemistry and experience with SEM, EPMA, TEM, and core logging of igneous and sedimentary materials.

Qualifications

• MS degree in petrology or geochemistry.
• Experience with micro-scale analytical tools (SEM, EPMA, TEM).
• Experience with core logging of igneous and sedimentary materials.
• Two years of research related to geologic hydrogen.
• Ability to manage a project with key deliverables and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate mineral and energy resources by analyzing samples at multiple scales.
• Prepare drill core samples for detailed textural and mineralogical characterization.
• Analyze and interpret results within a geologic context and report findings.

Skills

Core logging

Data interpretation

Education

MS degree in petrology or geochemistry

Tools

SEM

EPMA

TEM

Job description

About the Job

The candidate's daily duties relate to economic geology through evaluating mineral and energy resources by analyzing samples at multiple scales to determine mineral composition and paragenesis. Data collection and reporting responsibilities include preparation of drill core samples for detailed textural and mineralogical characterization, analysis and written data interpretation of results within a larger formational context. The candidate must be familiar with methodologies and data collection and analysis associated with characterizing source rocks for geologic hydrogen energy and mineral resource potential and must be trained on required analytical instruments and sample preparation techniques.

Timeframe: October 5th - December 18th.

Qualifications

Required qualifications:

• MS degree in petrology or geochemistry.
• Experience working with micro-scale analytical tools (SEM, EPMA, and TEM).
• Experience with core logging of both igneous and sedimentary materials.

Preferred qualifications

• Two years of research experience related to geologic hydrogen.
• Ability to manage a project with key deliverables and deadlines.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $30.00 per hour.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota

University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.

Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university. A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.