Research Associate for Mineralogy (all genders)

Leoben | Full time

Your position

As Research Associate for Mineralogy at RHI Magnesita, you are motivated by the opportunity to address complex mineralogical and thermochemical challenges. Drawing upon your analytical expertise, you will contribute to the advancement of innovative materials and technologies. With a deep commitment to academic and intellectual growth, you are constantly exploring new knowledge and applying cutting-edge methodologies, including artificial intelligence, to achieve faster progress. As a collaborative team player, you are eager to grow in scientific project management, working closely with colleagues across departments and regions worldwide. You will have keen attention to detail while maintaining a strong focus on the larger strategic context.

Your tasks

• Conducting mineralogical investigations of raw materials and refractory products using OLM and SEM, integrating findings with complementary chemical and physical data
• Establishing an internal Competence Center for thermochemical simulation, assuming global responsibility and promoting knowledge sharing across the organization
• Identifying and exploring opportunities for new developments in mineralogical material characterization and thermochemical modelling
• Initiating and managing R&D projects focused on mineralogy, ensuring strong scientific direction and successful project execution
• Publishing R&D project outcomes in scientific journals and present findings at international conferences
• Supporting R&D teams, marketing, sales, QM, and operations with technical mineralogical expertise, while overseeing laboratory supervision and analytical instruments

Your profile

• Proactive and creative thinker, who brings fresh ideas, works persistently and in depth with strong knowledge-sharing skills
• Master’s and/or doctoral degree in Geoscience (Mineralogy, Petrology), Ceramics, or Materials Science
• Expertise in petrological and mineralogical analytical methods (e.g., OLM, SEM, EDX, WDX, Micro XRF, XRD, XRF)
• Passion and proficiency in thermochemical calculations using Gibbs free energy minimization software (e.g., FactSage)
• Strong petrographic interpretation skills, with the ability to analyze light microscopic images and correlate them with chemical and physical measurement data
• Proven ability to prepare technical and scientific reports, effectively communicating complex findings
• A few years of professional experience in impactful roles, including scientific project management, publication, and communication with key stakeholders

Languages: English – proficient/fluent

Nice to have: Additional language skills (e.g. German) and programming experience

Our offer

The annual gross salary for this full-time position starts at €57,000.00, with a competitive package based on qualifications, experience, and market values. 

Flexibility: Possibility of flexible home‑office in agreement with your manager, trust-based working hours 

Health: Sponsorship of sporting events, platform for mental & physical health (Mavie), discount at local gym 

Plus: Childcare facilities (Hilfswerk) on the company premises, canteen with daily meal allowance, free parking incl. 12 charging stations, corporate benefits platform  

In addition to these local benefits for Leoben, we also offer you many global benefits.  

Do you want to take the next step?

Please apply online in English, as applications by e-mail cannot be considered for data protection reasons. Here you can find all the details about our application process.

At RHI Magnesita, everyone is welcome! We embrace diversity in all forms and evaluate applications solely based on qualifications and experience. If you share our passion for shaping tomorrow’s world, we’d love to hear from you, even if you don’t meet all the requirements. We also actively encourage individuals with disabilities to submit their application.

Do you have more questions?

Nina Missethon (Head of Talent Acquisition - Europe & CIS)

E-Mail: talent.europe@rhimagnesita.com

Phone / WhatsApp: +43 699 1870 5465

About RHI Magnesita

As the global leader in refractories, we supply advanced products, technologies and services essential for high-temperature industrial processes in sectors such as steel, cement, and glass. With around 20,000 employees and production sites across the globe, we are committed to fostering innovation, sustainability, and market leadership. By leading the industry in reducing emissions and supporting our customers' transitions to greener solutions, we are shaping tomorrow’s world.

Find out more here:

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