Research Scientist III

Posting Details

Posting Details

Logo Institution South Dakota Mines Working Title Research Scientist III Posting Number NFE03158P Department SDSMT-Chemistry, Biology, and Health Sciences Physical Location of Position (City) Rapid City Posting Text

Position Information:

South Dakota Mines invites applications for a Research Scientist III within the Chemistry, Biology, and Health Sciences department. This is a regular, full-time, benefited position. The successful candidate is expected to lead research in carbon-based nanomaterials, secure external funding, conduct advanced materials research, and disseminate findings through publications and presentations. The role also includes mentoring students, providing technical leadership, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to advance research goals.

Required Qualifications:

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Nanoscience and Nanoengineering or related field with 3 to 10 years of experience in research and technology development after receiving PhD.
• Demonstrated experience conducting independent research in nanomaterials, advanced materials, or related fields.
• Strong record of scientific achievement, including peer-reviewed publications and technical contributions.
• Project leadership experience, including planning, coordinating, and executing research projects.
• Experience preparing technical reports, scientific publications, and research proposals.
• Ability to supervise and mentor students or junior research personnel.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in collaborative, multidisciplinary research environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in carbon-based nanomaterials research, particularly for thermal management, thermal interface materials, heat-transfer applications, and/or lubrication technologies.
• Experience in the development and characterization of polymer nanocomposites and related functional materials.
• Demonstrated success in proposal development and securing external research funding.
• Experience serving in leadership roles on multidisciplinary research projects.

To Apply:

Applications must be made online at https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu. South Dakota Mines is committed to recruiting and retaining a talented workforce and offers an excellent comprehensive benefits package for employees, spouses and dependents; retirement plans; paid holidays; and a generous vacation and sick day allowance. Human Resources can provide accommodation to the online application process and may be reached at (605) 394-1203 or hr@sdsmt.edu. Review of applications will begin August 17, 2026. Employment is contingent upon completion of a satisfactory background investigation.

Please attach a cover letter, CV, and a list of three professional references (include name, mailing and email address for each reference). The cover letter should briefly describe your interest in the position and summarize the qualifications and experience that make you a strong candidate.

Posting Date 08/03/2026 Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes First Consideration Date 08/17/2026 Advertised Salary $71,179 - $79,590 depending on education and experience Duration of the Term 12 months If Other, describe duration Appointment Percent 100 Work Hours Typical Hours Worked Per Week Appointment Type Regular Faculty Status No Scope of Search External (includes Internal) If internal, define scope of search This position requires Valid Drivers License If other, please indicate Department Description and Cultural Expectations

Founded in 1885, South Dakota Mines is the premier destination for ambitious students seeking bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees in STEM fields. Our vibrant community of supportive faculty, tenacious students, and passionate alumni fosters a culture of ingenuity, collaboration, and lifelong success. South Dakota Mines is recognized frequently for its rigorous curriculum, groundbreaking research, and return on investment.

Rapid City, the home of the Hardrockers, is the state's second-largest city with an MSA population of nearly 160,000. The city is nestled next to the beautiful Black Hills, a region boasting breathtaking scenery, hundreds of miles of trails for outdoor enthusiasts, and attractions ranging from complex cave systems to historic towns and massive monuments.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

South Dakota Mines is an Equal Opportunity Employer. South Dakota Mines and the Board of Regents ensure that all employment practices are free of discrimination.

Contact Information

Working Conditions

Cognitive Requirements

Please check the appropriate response that describe the cognitive requirements for this position. Analyzing, Comprehend, Memory, Multiple Priorities, Reading, Reasoning, Verbal Communication, Written Communication

Protective Clothing/Equipment

Please check the appropriate response for this position's use of the following protective clothing or equipment. Eye Protection, Latex Gloves, Other If other protection is used please identify

Physical Requirements

Please designate the physical requirements of this position Fine Finger Manipulation (keyboarding, pipefitting, bench work, etc), Sitting for sustained periods of time, Standing for sustained periods of time, Walking Describe any of the conditions selected

Sensory Requirements

Please check the appropriate response that describe the sensory requirements for this position. Hearing, Speaking, Vision (With and without corrective lenses)

Working Conditions & Exposures

Working Conditions or Exposures (or potential exposures) that this position may encounter during the course of the work day. Chemical Hazards Please describe, in more detail, any of the conditions checked above

Working Environment

Check the appropriate box(es) that best describes the environment in which the primary function of the position is performed. Lab Environment, Office Environment If you have indicated Other Environment, if work tasks involve one or more of the above, or if further explanation is necessary, please use the space provided.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• • How did you hear about this employment opportunity?

• Public Job Posting

• Internal Job Posting

• Agency Referral

• Advertisement/Publication

• Personal Referral

• Website

• Other

• Please attach a cover letter, CV, and a list of three professional references (include name, mailing and email address for each reference). The cover letter should briefly describe your interest in the position and summarize the qualifications and experience that make you a strong candidate.

(Open Ended Question)

Documents Needed to Apply

Required Documents

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Reference List

Optional Documents