Founder in Residence, Critical Minerals (Mining / Refining / Geology)

Founder: Critical Minerals Mining, Refining, Geology

About Marble: Marble is a climate tech venture studio that aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create a better future. They partner with scientists, engineers, and operators to develop deep technology companies that solve climate and industrial emission problems. They focus on removing carbon from the atmosphere and reshaping multi-billion-dollar industries. Marble is backed by leading climate investors in Europe and the US.

Closing the Critical Minerals Supply Gap: To achieve net-zero emissions by mid-century, the world needs to shift to clean energy technologies at an unprecedented speed. However, the supply of critical minerals, such as copper, lithium, graphite, and rare earth elements, is insufficient to meet the growing demand for batteries, renewables, and the power grid. Marble aims to close this supply gap sustainably and quickly by exploring novel approaches, minimizing environmental impacts, and diversifying supply chains geographically.

The Opportunity: Marble is interested in various opportunities along the critical minerals value chain, with a primary focus on copper and rare earth elements. They also consider opportunities in lithium, nickel, graphite, and the battery supply chain. Some examples of potential opportunities include exploration, mining, processing, refining, recycling, and substitution of critical minerals. Marble is looking for Founders in Residence to join their next cohort in March 2024 to explore these opportunities and create scalable companies that bridge the supply gap.

Skills Profile: Marble is looking for entrepreneurial scientists with deep technical expertise in critical minerals. Relevant backgrounds include mining engineering, metallurgy, chemistry, environmental engineering, geochemistry, microbiology, enzyme engineering, biotechnology, and other related fields. Experience in the critical minerals value chain, including mining, refining, recycling, and applications, is desirable. Techno-economic modeling and life cycle analysis skills are also beneficial.

What They Offer: As a Founder in Residence, Marble offers a monthly allowance during the program and a pre-seed investment if successful. Founders and their teams will own 80% of the company at the pre-seed stage. Marble provides full-stack support in their venture creation program, including mentorship, technology and market research, IP strategy, and team building. Founders will have access to a network of industry experts, investors, mentors, and suppliers. Additional support includes seed fundraising assistance, introductions to seed investors, and founder visa sponsorship for relocation to France.

How to Apply: Applications for the March 2024 cohort are currently being accepted through their website. Marble encourages a diverse group of applicants, including women and people of color. They recognize that underrepresented candidates may not apply unless they meet all qualifications, and they are committed to building a diverse and inclusive cohort. Remote participation is possible, preferably from Europe with regular in-person meetings.