About
Dr. Andrew Frierdich is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Earth, Atmosphere & Environment at Monash University, Australia. He joined the university in June 2015. Prior to this, he was a National Science Foundation Division of Earth Sciences Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Iowa (2014–2015) and a Postdoctoral Research Scholar at the University of Wisconsin, Madison (2012–2014). He holds a PhD in Earth and Planetary Sciences from Washington University (2012), an MSc in Environmental Science in Civil Engineering from UIUC (2008), and a BSc in Chemistry with Highest Distinction from UIUC (2006).
Research Interests: His work focuses on isotope geochemistry, environmental geochemistry, ore processing, and synchrotron geosciences. He leads the Monash Environmental Geochemistry and Geochemical Analysis (MEGGA) Group, advancing research in mineral-microbe interactions and environmental remediation. Recent projects include studying cobalt mobilization in mine tailings, carbon-neutral copper production, and CO₂ sequestration via artificial laterites.
Research Outputs: His recent publications (2020–2024) explore trace metal cycling in iron oxides, iron isotope fractionation in acid mine drainage, and copper speciation in soils. These studies emphasize mineralogical transformations and their environmental impacts. Projects funded by AINSE and other institutes aim to enhance critical metal recovery and sustainable resource management.
Awards & Grants: While no specific awards are listed, his involvement in numerous grants underscores his research impact. Current projects include $1M+ initiatives on metal sequestration and laterite formation.
Advising & Teams: He supervises Honours and PhD students in geochemistry and environmental science. Collaborations span global institutions, focusing on UN Sustainable Development Goals related to climate action and responsible consumption of resources.
