David Leach

David Leach is a Research Professor in the Department of Geology and Geological Engineering at the Colorado School of Mines. His work focuses on sediment-hosted base metal ores, evaporite-related mineralization systems, and secular variations in Earth history. He has conducted extensive research on Mississippi Valley-type (MVT) deposits worldwide, including studies in China, Peru, Poland, and North Africa.

His research integrates geochemical analysis (e.g., sulfur/carbon/oxygen isotopes), structural geology, and basin modeling to understand ore genesis mechanisms. Key contributions include advancing understanding of evaporite diapir-related mineralization, fluid-rock interactions during ore formation, and the temporal distribution of MVT deposits through Earth history.

• Key Projects: Age dating of MVT deposits using paleomagnetism and Re-Os geochronology
• Regional Focus: Ore systems in China, Peru, Morocco, Tunisia, and the Rocky Mountains
• Technical Expertise: Isotope geochemistry, fluid inclusion studies, 3D deposit modeling

Dr. Leach's work has significantly influenced exploration strategies for sediment-hosted deposits, particularly in salt diapir provinces. He has pioneered methods for characterizing hydrothermal fluid evolution and its environmental impacts, such as soil contamination around ore districts.

Recipient of the RAF Penrose Gold Medal (2010) for his contributions to economic geology. His publications bridge fundamental geoscience with applied mineral exploration, emphasizing the interplay between tectonics, sedimentology, and metallogeny.