CMI Highlight: CMI researcher moves from LLNL to Solcoa
CMI researchers at Case Western Reserve University and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory conducted the research for this highlight.
Overview
During four years at CMI (2022-2026), Eunjeong Kim advanced research supporting domestic neodymium (Nd) production through chloride-based molten salt electrolysis and model validation efforts. Kim also contributed to workforce development as a 2026 CMI Internship Program mentor and CMI Leadership Academy Cohort 6 member before joining Solcoa in September 2026.
Achievement
Through CMI, Kim refined her critical materials skills, knowledge, and abilities (SKAs). Now she will apply these SKAs at a rare earth startup.
Details and Next Steps
At Solcoa, Kim will work as a Research Engineer, applying her experience in molten salt electrolysis, materials characterization, experimental validation, and CMI leadership to the scale-up and commercialization of Nd production technology.
Hubs Target Addressed
Providing technical expertise and developing critical-materials talent to advance domestic production and strengthen U.S. supply chains.
