Montana Tech, Idaho National Laboratory sign landmark partnership to advance nuclear energy and critical materials research, education
Montana Technological University has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Battelle Energy Alliance LLC, the managing and operating contractor of the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), to expand collaboration in critical materials and nuclear energy research.
"Our longstanding partnership with the Idaho National Lab has helped Montana Tech faculty and students advance their research in meaningful ways,” Montana Tech Chancellor Johnny MacLean said. “This new MOU represents an important next step as we more intentionally align our efforts with national priorities. It's a wonderful example of how Montana Tech is once again rising to meet America's needs in partnership with government and industry."
The partnership establishes a framework for joint research, workforce development, and academic collaboration between Montana Tech and one of the nation’s leading energy laboratories.
Montana Tech and INL will pursue collaborative efforts in critical minerals and materials, including extraction technologies, mineral processing, and innovative methods for recovering valuable elements from mine waste and tailings. Additional areas of focus include economic geology, materials characterization, and site remediation and restoration.
“Combining Montana Tech’s exceptional applied hands-on expertise in critical materials and mining research with INL’s capabilities, allows us to accomplish things neither institution could achieve alone,” said Robert Podgorney, a subsurface science directorate fellow at INL. “Through joint research, faculty exchanges and internship opportunities, we’re extending the bench on some of the most consequential challenges facing our nation’s critical materials supply chain.”
The MOU also emphasizes expanding collaboration in nuclear energy, including developing educational pathways, enhancing curriculum and engaging with experts in emerging nuclear technologies.
The three-year agreement includes opportunities for faculty and staff exchanges, joint workshops and expanded industry engagement. Students will benefit from increased internship opportunities and access to graduate research experiences in collaboration with INL scientists and engineers.
“This partnership represents a significant step forward in advancing applied research at Montana Tech,” Vice Chancellor of Research and Dean of the Graduate School Katie Hailer said. “By aligning our strengths in critical materials and resource development with the world-class capabilities at the Idaho National Laboratory, we are creating new opportunities to move research from the laboratory toward real-world application. This collaboration will accelerate technologies in critical materials recovery while providing our students and faculty with direct access to one of the nation’s premier energy research environments.”
The agreement will play a critical role in Montana Tech’s establishment of an undergraduate certificate in nuclear energy, a Master of Science in Nuclear Energy, and a Ph.D. in Energy Engineering and Science with three specializations: Power Systems and Technologies; Energy Conversion and Application; and Petroleum and Subsurface Engineering. In March 2026, the Montana Board of Regents approved Montana Tech’s plans to launch the programs.
As it celebrates its 125th year, Montana Tech continues to expand its focus on energy systems and critical materials aligning with national priorities and industry needs. This partnership further supports the university’s purpose to rise to meet America’s emerging needs by preparing the next generation of STEM leaders.