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South Dakota Mines Appoints Ben Braaten as VP of Research

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  Published in Science and Technology on Sunday, March 15th 2026 at 18:42 GMT by KOTA TV
      Locales: South Dakota, UNITED STATES

Rapid City, SD - March 15, 2026 - The South Dakota School of Mines & Technology (SDM) has announced the appointment of Ben Braaten as its new Vice President of Research, effective tomorrow, March 16, 2026. This strategic appointment signals a heightened focus on research innovation and growth at the university, aiming to bolster its position as a leading STEM institution and economic driver for the state of South Dakota.

Braaten arrives at SDM from Montana State University, where he served as Associate Dean for Research. His extensive background encompasses all facets of research administration, from strategic planning and development to securing substantial funding and fostering impactful collaborations. This experience is considered crucial as SDM aims to expand its research portfolio and national recognition.

A Rising Tide of Research at South Dakota Mines

South Dakota Mines has been steadily increasing its research output in recent years, focusing on areas like advanced materials, sustainable energy, and robotics. The university's research is deeply tied to the needs of South Dakota's key industries, including mining, agriculture, and aerospace. Braaten's role will be pivotal in accelerating this momentum and diversifying the research landscape. He is tasked with not only maintaining existing research funding but also aggressively pursuing new opportunities, particularly in federally funded programs and private sector partnerships.

President Michele M. Flournoy highlighted the importance of this appointment, stating, "We are thrilled to welcome Ben to South Dakota Mines. His extensive experience and leadership skills will be invaluable as we continue to grow our research enterprise and make a positive impact on the state and the world." Flournoy emphasized that Braaten's leadership will be instrumental in attracting top-tier researchers and students to the university, further enhancing its reputation and fostering a vibrant research community.

Focus on Collaboration and Ecosystem Building

Braaten's vision extends beyond simply increasing research dollars. He plans to prioritize the creation of a collaborative research environment that encourages interdisciplinary projects and active participation from both faculty and students. "I'm excited to join the South Dakota Mines community and contribute to its ongoing success. I believe that research is essential for driving innovation and economic growth, and I'm committed to creating an environment that encourages both faculty and student involvement," Braaten stated.

He plans to implement initiatives to streamline research processes, provide enhanced support for grant writing, and establish stronger connections with industry partners. This includes fostering relationships with national laboratories, government agencies like the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation, and private companies seeking cutting-edge research solutions. The goal is to build a 'research ecosystem' where ideas can flourish and translate into real-world applications.

Braaten's Credentials and Expertise

Ben Braaten brings a solid academic foundation to his new role. He holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, a highly regarded engineering program. Before his tenure at Montana State, he held leadership positions at Purdue University and the University of Utah, demonstrating a consistent track record of success in research administration across diverse institutional settings. His background in mechanical engineering is particularly relevant to SDM's historical strengths in mining and materials science, but his experience spans multiple disciplines, indicating a capacity to foster innovation across the entire university.

Economic Impact and Future Growth

The appointment of a dedicated and experienced Vice President of Research is a clear indicator of South Dakota Mines' commitment to economic development within the state. Research activities at the university generate direct economic impact through job creation, technology transfer, and the attraction of external funding. Moreover, a robust research enterprise contributes to a highly skilled workforce, preparing students for leadership roles in STEM fields.

Looking ahead, SDM anticipates significant growth in research areas such as carbon capture technologies, advanced manufacturing, and the development of sustainable materials. Braaten's leadership will be crucial in navigating the increasingly competitive landscape of research funding and ensuring that South Dakota Mines remains at the forefront of innovation. He expressed his eagerness to work with the campus community, stating he is looking forward to "foster collaboration and build a stronger research ecosystem." This commitment suggests a collaborative leadership style focused on empowering faculty, staff, and students to achieve their research potential and contribute to a brighter future for South Dakota and beyond.