About
Leading critical minerals research
The Institute for Critical and Strategic Minerals (ICSM) at the University of Utah brings together leading multidisciplinary expertise to solve one of today’s most urgent challenges: securing a sustainable, domestic supply of critical minerals and rare earth elements.
Through leading interdisciplinary research, workforce development and strong partnerships with industry and government leaders, ICSM advances solutions across the full lifecycle—exploration, responsible mining, processing, recycling and supply chain integration.
Backed by more than a century of leadership in mining and metallurgy, the University of Utah offers a uniquely integrated approach: combining geology, mining engineering and metallurgical engineering together with other engineering, science, business, law, social science, policy and broad disciplines in one ecosystem.
ICSM serves as a hub for research, education and real-world application—translating discovery into impact and positioning Utah as a national leader in critical mineral research, production and processing.
Mission
The Institute for Critical and Strategic Minerals (ICSM) advances the discovery, development and translation of critical mineral resources and technologies across the full lifecycle—resource characterization, processing, recycling and advanced materials—to strengthen domestic, sustainable supply chains, accelerate innovation and build a skilled workforce for energy, technology and national security.
Vision
A secure, resilient and sustainable critical minerals ecosystem, powered by interdisciplinary research and real-world application.