The University of Queensland’s Sustainable Minerals Institute (SMI) recently celebrated the accomplishments of its latest cohort of Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students through two major events: the SMI Next Gen HDR Student Conference 2025 and a ceremony for the July 2025 HDR graduates.
The SMI Next Gen HDR Student Conference 2025 had a packed two days (16 – 17 July 2025), with over 60 participants; three keynote speakers; a panel discussion and dozens of presentations from students speaking passionately about their research projects.
HDR students run a successful conference
Keynote speaker and geoscientist Evelyn Mervine spoke about carbon considerations in environmental management and rehabilitation at mine sites; Head of Sustainability at MMG Limited Fiona Sartain spoke about her experiences working in social responsibility and governance in Las Bambas, Peru; and senior metallurgist Roxanne O'Donnell spoke about safe and sustainable mineral exploration, extraction and processing.
An industry panel featured Helen Degeling, Evelyn Mervine, Roxanne O'Donnell and Alan Levett, who shared their personal journeys. The consensus was that interpersonal communication skills are key for those looking for careers in industry. There was also a placement information session as well as student presentations showing the passion and depth of expertise of the SMI HDR cohort.
SMI celebrates the latest round of HDR graduations
On Friday 18 July, friends, family, supervisors and colleagues gathered at The University of Queensland's Sustainable Minerals Institute to celebrate the July 2025 HDR graduates. SMI director Professor Rick Valenta personally presented a plaque to each graduate: Batbayar Batkhuu, Kathryn Kochan, Nikky LaBranche, Loren Nicholls, Joyce Siong, Phill McKenna and Roneel Narayan. Joni Parmenter also graduated.
