The University of Queensland continues to lead the way in mining research, with the appointment of an inaugural Professor of Mining Geoscience.
Andre van As, who has worked on geoscience issues relating to mass underground mining (caving) operations and projects for the past 30 years, has been appointed to the new position.
He will be based in the WH Bryan Mining Geology Research Centre (BRC), a component of the Sustainable Minerals Institute.
UQ Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Deborah Terry AO said the role was co-funded by The Bryan Foundation and UQ.
“I am very pleased we are partnering with The Bryan Foundation in an area of growing importance in mining education and research,” Professor Terry said.
Co-founder of The Bryan Foundation, Bob Bryan AM, said the objective would be to develop a Deep Mining Geology research group within the BRC.
“We aim to bring together the mass underground mining capabilities that currently exist within the Centre and beyond,” he said.
“We will also be developing a professional training program so as to be able to pass on the complex and unique skillsets required in mass underground mining, to current and future geologists.”
SMI Director Professor Neville Plint said as global demand for minerals continues to increase, many mining companies are going deeper underground to explore for mineral deposits.
“Conditions deep underground present new challenges and Andre will focus on developing solutions for companies operating in this environment,” Professor Plint said.
Andre Van As sits on several cave mining geotechnical review boards, was a recipient of a CSIRO medal in 2001 and has a consultancy focused on providing technical expertise to the cave mining industry.
He will take up the role in November.
Media: Gillian Ievers 0438 121757, g.ievers@uq.edu.au
