Job Title: Research Project Specialist 3: NRRI Chemistry and Materials Science Program Leader

Transcription

1 Job Title: Research Project Specialist 3: NRRI Chemistry and Materials Science Program Leader Job Opening ID #: Location: Duluth, Minnesota Full/Part Time: Full Time Regular/Temporary: Regular Qualifications Required Qualifications BA/BS Degree in a relevant area of chemistry, materials science, or closely related discipline from a regionally accredited college or university with at least 10 years of relevant industrial experience or advanced degree (M.S. or greater) plus 8 years of experience Successful research and publication record (journals, patents, trade information, as appropriate to candidate's career). Demonstrated supervisory experience Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate and work effectively in a diverse and multidisciplinary team environment Demonstrated ability to lead complex research efforts, execute research program objectives, write reports, train, mentor and manage direct reports Demonstrated ability to find and manage funding for large research projects, including but not limited to federal, state, and industry grants and contracts Excellent written communication skills; demonstrated skills in technical writing, editing and organization of data Preferred Qualifications Terminal degree in a relevant area of chemistry, materials science, or closely related discipline with substantial research and publication record Materials experience; such as additive manufacturing, polymer composites, testing and test method development Experience with intellectual property development, management, and technology transfer

2 Experience with advanced analytical laboratory instrumentation relevant to materials science and chemistry Experience communicating research findings to a variety of technical and non-technical audiences Experience working within a quality management system Ability to manage project budgets Detail-oriented, self-motivated and possessing strong organizational skills and excellent interpersonal skills Ability to apply sound judgment in strategic decisions on the basis of organizational mission and input from peers and organizational leaders Clear verbal communication skills in the English language About the Job This position develops and leads an Institute research group focused on developing bio-based chemicals, polymers, materials, additive manufacturing technology, and fuels from regionally relevant natural resources. This includes leading a natural products extraction and analyses research group. Existing programs of this group include development of derivatives from natural sources for broad applications, production of water resistant binders for solid biofuel briquettes, and development of lignin-based polymers. As a group leader this position will also collaborate with the wood products and materials testing laboratory, NRRl's additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping lab, and the University of Minnesota Duluth's Chemistry and Advanced Materials Science (CAMS) program. The position will be located at the Duluth Miller Trunk Highway facility. The position will engage and work closely with NRRI research, information, and financial managers, NRRI researchers, University of Minnesota departments and personnel, public and private sector groups, federal, state and county agencies, as well as industry and business communities. The position will have both direct and indirect supervisory responsibilities. Regional travel will be required. The program leader will demonstrate a commitment to working with diverse individuals in industry, agencies and from the public. We are committed to attracting candidates from diverse cultures and communities because we believe that diversity enriches the research experience and specifically will lead to a better connection between research result s and implementation. Job Duties: a. (40%) Develop a comprehensive program in materials that leads to new technologies and products that utilize natural resources to promote the future economic vitality of the region. This program would

3 incorporate existing research into natural products extractives, wood and wood composite materials, textiles, biopolymers, and composites comprised of organic and mineral constituents. b. (20%) Coordinate additive manufacturing and chemical analysis labs, which provide services for other units within NRRI as well as external clientele. c. (20%) Identify future technology trends and market opportunities and build collaborative alliances - internal (NRRI, UMD, UMN) and external (industry, government, academia) - to pursue research and development responding to those trends. d. (5%) Identify and pursue funding sources to support program activities. e. (5%) Identify required science and engineering skill sets and develop succession plans that allow program to evolve and meet future societal demands. f. (5%) Collaborate with the University of Minnesota Office of Technology Commercialization to secure and commercialize intellectual property developed through program research and development. Operational Role The Chemistry and Materials Science Program Leader organizes research group programs and deliverables consistent with Institute mission and goals. The Leader will engage with Institute senior leadership to influence direction and operation of the Institute and is responsible for long-term assembly and development of the research teams, including developing sustainable funding through grants, gifts, sales, and licensing. The leader will coordinate and assure quality of both written and oral communications of research teams and be responsible for group safety and compliance with University, state and federal safety regulations. Scope of Measurable Impact Key short-term measurable impact will be the formation of a coherent materials research team with suitable, consistent funding. Longer-term impacts include generation of intellectual property, industrial, public, and academic recognition of NRRl's bioeconomy program, consistent delivery of results within budget and timeline, and attraction and retention of key internal and external collaborators. Independence and Decision-Making The Chemistry and Materials Science Program Leader primarily works independently in accordance with agreed-upon objectives; is responsible for keeping research moving in a productive direction, and looks for Initiative Director approval when changes to process steps are considered and when additional resources for task completion are required.

4 Complexity and Problem Solving The Chemistry and Materials Science Program Leader must demonstrate sufficient intellectual breadth, flexibility, and creativity to incorporate multiple perspectives from industrial, regulatory, government, and academic stakeholders, to adapt the research program to the needs of society, as well as to incorporate future technology advances. Supervision Has the authority to hire, transfer, promote, discharge, suspend, assign work, reward, discipline, and direct the work of both full-time and part-time University employees. Diversity The University is interested in an individual whose record of achievement has been enhanced by exposure to diverse ideas, opinions and people. We are seeking candidates who can demonstrate the ability to respond effectively to the growing diversity of the Universities students, staff and faculty, to work with tribal governments, agencies and their staff, local and federal agencies, industry, and entrepreneurs. About the Department The Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) at the University of Minnesota Duluth is an applied research organization whose charter is "To deliver research solutions to balance our economy, resources and environment for resilient communities". As a non-academic unit of the University of Minnesota system, NRRI engages in collaborative, applied research to deliver excellence in science, engineering and economic analysis in support of natural resource use and management decisions. Institute research programs are managed through six integrated initiatives; Economic Development, Forest and Land, Renewable Energy, Water, Mining Minerals & Metallurgy, and Wood Products & Bioeconomy. Research programs are relevant to more than one of the six initiatives. How To Apply Job open date: May 29, 2018 Job closing date: Open until filled

5 Review of complete applications will begin July 9, 2018, and will continue until the position is filled. Applications must be submitted online. To apply for this position, go to and search for job opening Complete applications must include: A letter expressing interest, availability, experience, and strengths as they relate to the position A current resume/curriculum vitae Contact information for three professional references (will wait for permission before contacting). Statement of research interests (up to two pages). Applicants may also include the following optional documents: A statement of philosophy regarding commitment to diversity and equal opportunity The cover letter and CV/resume will be attached during the application process. First submit the application and then return to the My Activities page to attach the additional documents. Please send any inquiries to Patrice Hell, phell@d.umn.edu or How to Apply: Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume. Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Activities" page and uploading documents there. To request an accommodation during the application process, please employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-UOHR (8647). Please Note: If you have started receiving retirement annuity payments from the Minnesota State Retirement System (MSRS) or Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA) your eligibility for this position may be impacted. Please contact U of M Benefits at for any eligibility limitations. Diversity

6 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: Background Check Information 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.