Postdoctoral Researcher in LCA: The Desert Research Institute’s (DRI’s) Division of Atmospheric Sciences is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) to investigate the energy and environmental impacts of various systems and processes. This full-time position is based in Reno, NV, and offers opportunities for collaboration across multiple research divisions and institutions.
Postdoctoral Researcher, Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA)
Designation: Postdoctoral Researcher
Research Area: Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) of energy and environmental impacts, with a focus on the lithium lifecycle in Nevada.
Location: Desert Research Institute, Northern Nevada Science Center, Reno, NV
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Ph.D. from an accredited institution in Environmental Science and Engineering, Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mining and Metallurgical Engineering, Industrial Ecology, or a related field.
- Familiarity with common LCA software (e.g., SimaPro, GaBi, OpenLCA) and databases.
- Experience with modern programming and data analysis languages (e.g., Python, R, or Matlab).
- Demonstrated experience in conducting LCA research.
- Potential to publish research in high-impact journals related to LCA and sustainability.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Ability to analyze and report research findings effectively.
- Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively in diverse research teams.
- Ability to develop research proposals and participate in grant writing.
- Commitment to academic integrity and ethics.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Existing research network within the mining and mineral industry.
- Experience with environmental impact assessment, battery materials production and manufacturing, resource efficiency, and sustainability metrics.
- Familiarity with the unique environmental challenges and opportunities in arid regions such as Nevada.
- Potential to contribute to grant writing efforts to secure research funding.
- Willingness to engage in community outreach and institutional service activities.
Job Description:
The successful candidate will contribute to an existing research project investigating the environmental issues related to lithium in Nevada. The position involves using LCA tools to assess energy and environmental impacts at various stages of the lithium lifecycle, including mining, processing, manufacturing, and recycling. The candidate will be expected to conduct independent and collaborative research projects, potentially evolving the position into a regular research faculty role upon satisfactory performance and funding generation.
How to Apply:
Qualified individuals must apply online and upload the following documents:
- A cover letter detailing research experience, career goals, and potential funding avenues.
- A current curriculum vitae.
- Contact information for three professional references.
Please submit applications through the Workday system, referencing job requisition ID R0143110. For assistance, contact Human Resources at (775) 673-7431 or recruit@dri.edu.
Last Date for Apply:
Applications will be reviewed immediately and continue until the position is filled. Recruitment may close without notice once a sufficient number of applications are received or a hiring decision is made.
For more information about DRI, visit www.dri.edu.
