Gregory Hancock

Gregory Hancock is an Associate Professor - Research in the School of Engineering (Earth Sciences) at the University of Newcastle, Australia. With over two decades of academic experience, he specializes in geomorphology, environmental modeling, and mine site rehabilitation. His research has significant implications for sustainable land management and post-mining landscape restoration, with extensive publication record and substantial research funding from both government and industry sources.

• PhD, University of Newcastle
• Bachelor of Science (Honours), University of Newcastle

Dr. Hancock's research spans three primary areas: mine and disturbed landscape rehabilitation, applied and theoretical geomorphology, and environmental modeling. His work focuses on understanding erosion processes, landscape evolution, and developing computer-based models to predict long-term geomorphic stability of rehabilitated landscapes. He has made significant contributions to the field of landscape evolution modeling, particularly through the application of the SIBERIA model to assess post-mining landforms. His research integrates field measurements with computer simulations to address practical environmental management challenges, with applications spanning from mine rehabilitation to soil carbon dynamics and erosion control.

Dr. Hancock's publication record demonstrates consistent productivity and increasing international collaboration. His recent work shows an expanding scope from pure geomorphology to broader environmental systems, particularly in soil organic carbon dynamics and erosion processes. The research shows strong practical applications, especially in mine rehabilitation projects, with notable collaborations on European projects like LIFE RIBERMINE. His work increasingly integrates multiple disciplines including hydrology, soil science, and carbon cycling, reflecting a holistic approach to environmental systems.

• ARC Discovery grants for carbon, nutrient and sediment dynamics
• ARC Linkage grants
• AINSE Grants for cosmogenic nuclide measurement
• Research consultancies with mining companies (XStrata Copper, Rio Tinto, Western Mining Corporation)
• Appointed Associate Editor for Journal of Geophysical Research-Earth Surface
• Appointed as an International Expert by the IAEA

Dr. Hancock supervises honours, Masters, and PhD students in geomorphology and environmental modeling topics. His grant history is extensive, including leadership of the National Airborne Field Experiment (NAFE) and multiple projects related to mine site rehabilitation and erosion prediction. He has coordinated undergraduate courses and served on various university committees. His research demonstrates strong industry engagement, with numerous consultancies for mining companies to address practical environmental challenges at mine sites across Australia.

Dr. Hancock has been involved with the Centre of Environmental Dynamics (COED) at the University of Newcastle. His research often involves interdisciplinary teams combining geomorphologists, soil scientists, hydrologists, and environmental engineers. He has collaborated extensively with international researchers, particularly through his work as Associate Editor for the Journal of Geophysical Research-Earth Surface. His recent work on the LIFE RIBERMINE project demonstrates his leadership in applying geomorphological principles to mine closure challenges across international contexts.