Research Scientist II

Role details

Working Title

Research Scientist II

Posting Number

NFE03230P

Department

SDSMT-Chemistry, Biology, and Health Sciences 1

Physical Location of Position (City)

Rapid City

Posting Text

South Dakota Mines is seeking a Research Scientist II. This is a full-time benefited position. The Research Scientist II will conduct advanced and independent research in solid-state battery technology, with an emphasis on the development, fabrication, and optimization of electrode and solid-electrolyte films for solid-state pouch cells.

The researcher will design and conduct experiments related to battery materials and components, develop and optimize material formulations, slurry compositions, coating conditions, and film-processing procedures, and investigate the effects of processing parameters on film uniformity, mechanical stability, interfacial contact, and electrochemical performance. The researcher will develop methods for scaling film fabrication from laboratory-scale cells to solid-state pouch-cell configurations and will assemble and evaluate solid-state battery cells and pouch cells using appropriate electrochemical testing methods.

The position will involve characterization of battery materials, fabricated films, and electrode/solid-electrolyte interfaces, as well as analysis and interpretation of experimental data to understand relationships among material composition, processing conditions, interfacial properties, and battery performance. The researcher will identify scientific and technical challenges and develop experimental strategies to improve materials, film-processing methods, interfaces, and overall cell performance.

The Research Scientist II will also contribute to the development of new research directions and externally funded projects in solid-state battery technology. Responsibilities will include developing research concepts, preparing and contributing to research proposals for submission to federal agencies and other funding organizations, when appropriate and permitted by institutional and sponsor policies. The researcher will contribute to defining project objectives, technical approaches, milestones, and deliverables and will participate in the scientific and technical management of funded projects.

Additional responsibilities will include collaboration with faculty, research staff, students, and external partners; providing scientific and technical guidance to students and other researchers; preparing technical reports, scientific presentations, and peer-reviewed manuscripts; and maintaining current knowledge of advances in solid-state battery materials, processing, and pouch-cell technology. Furthermore, the candidate will be responsible for maintenance of the lab equipment and purchasing requests.

The workforce development effort must involve technical advising of K-12 students from the Black Hills area and SD Mines B.S. students interested in materials and processes relevant to energy storage.

Required Qualifications: A Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Materials Science and Engineering, a closely related scientific or engineering field is required. The position requires advanced knowledge of solid-state batteries, electrochemistry, battery materials, materials processing, and materials characterization, as well as demonstrated experience in independent experimental research.

The successful candidate must be able to design and execute research activities, analyze and interpret complex scientific data, contribute to research proposal development, communicate research findings effectively, and work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary research teams.

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 [email protected]. Review of applications will begin November 6, 2026. Employment is contingent upon completion of a satisfactory background investigation.

Please attach a cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional references (include name and email address for each reference).

Posting Date

10/30/2026

Closing Date

Open Until Filled

Yes

First Consideration Date

11/06/2026

Advertised Salary

$61,894 - $65,000 depending on education and experience

Duration of the Term

12 months

If Other, describe duration

Appointment Percent

100

Work Hours

9:00am-5:00pm

Typical Hours Worked Per Week

Appointment Type

Regular

Faculty Status

Yes

Scope of Search

External (includes Internal)

If internal, define scope of search

This position requires

No Requirement

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. The South Dakota Mines Strategic Plan can be found here.

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.