McGill University
Research Associate
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Hiring Unit
Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences
Position Summary
Conduct independent research on the hydrothermal mobility, transport, deposition, fractionation, and concentration of critical metals, with emphasis on rare earth elements and high-field-strength elements in natural ore-forming systems.
- Design, execute, troubleshoot, and interpret high-temperature and high-pressure experiments using in situ spectroscopic, autoclave solubility, and cold-seal experimental techniques.
- Develop thermodynamic models for critical-metal-bearing fluid–mineral systems and use these models to identify the mechanisms controlling metal mobilization, fractionation, and enrichment in hydrothermal environments.
- Translate fundamental experimental and modelling results into applied concepts for cleaner hydrometallurgical extraction, separation, and concentration of critical metals.
- Prepare peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, research proposals, presentations, and data packages; contribute to the scientific direction of the project and communicate results to academic, government, and industry collaborators.
- Provide technical guidance and training to graduate students, research assistants, and technical staff in experimental design, laboratory safety, data analysis, and thermodynamic modelling.
Qualifications
- Demonstrated peer-reviewed publication record in high-temperature experimental geochemistry, hydrothermal ore-forming systems, and/or critical-metal transport and deposition.
- Advanced hands-on expertise with high-temperature and high-pressure experimental methods, including in situ spectroscopy, autoclave solubility experiments, and cold-seal pressure-vessel techniques.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and apply thermodynamic models for fluid–mineral systems relevant to critical-metal mobility, fractionation, and concentration.
- Experience developing applied research concepts related to hydrometallurgical extraction, separation, or concentration of rare earth elements or other critical metals.
- Excellent English-language written and oral communication skills, including the ability to write scientific manuscripts, technical reports, proposals, and to communicate complex research results to multidisciplinary collaborators.
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Experience and Education
- Ph.D. in geochemistry, geology, Earth sciences, experimental mineralogy, or a closely related field.
- Extensive professional research experience in experimental hydrothermal geochemistry, critical-metal geochemistry, or thermodynamics of fluid–mineral systems.
- Proven ability to conduct independent research, develop, lead, and manage complex experimental programs and multidisciplinary projects, and contribute to the supervision and training of junior researchers.
Before Applying
Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based/located.
Knowledge of English
McGill University is an English-language university where most teaching and research activities are conducted in the English language, thereby requiring English communication both verbally and in writing. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at Level 3 on a scale of 0–4.
Job Details
- Hourly Salary: $50.00
- Hours per Week: 40 (Full time)
- Location: Adams Building
- Supervisor: Professor
- Position Start Date: 2026-06-30
- Position End Date: 2027-02-12
- Deadline to Apply: 2026-07-15
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Additional Information
This position is covered by the Association of McGill University Research Employees (AMURE) collective agreement. McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify.
Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, accessibilityrequest.hr@mcgill.ca.
About McGill University
Located in one of the world’s great multicultural and multilingual cities, McGill University is internationally recognized for its excellence as a leading institution of higher education and research. For nearly 200 years, through the work of dedicated people, McGill has been breaking ground in diverse fields and contributing solutions to some of the world’s most significant issues. McGillians are proud to be part of a community that is both global and local, inspired by challenge and committed to shaping a better future. McGill received a Platinum STARS rating in sustainability, is among Canada’s greenest employers, and is a top Montreal Employer.
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