Alex McCoy-West

Alex McCoy-West is a Senior Lecturer in Geochemistry at James Cook University, specializing in radiogenic and stable isotope systems (Sr-Nd-Hf-Pb-Os, Fe, Zn, Mo) to investigate planetary formation, continental evolution, and ore deposit genesis. His groundbreaking work includes using Mo isotopes to reveal rapid early Earth crustal growth and pioneering double-spike Nd stable isotope techniques.

• PhD in Geochemistry (Australian National University, 2014)
• MSc in Geology (Victoria University of Wellington, 2009)

Research Interests:
Focuses on continental emergence, mantle heterogeneity, and non-traditional stable isotopes to study planetary differentiation, hydrothermal systems, and mineralization. Projects include isotopic analysis of Banded Iron Formations to track early ocean chemistry and sustainable REE extraction technologies.

Scientific Awards:

• Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (2021)
• Postdoctoral Paper Medal (2018)
• Faculty of Science Award for Research Excellence (Finalist, 2020)

Current Projects:
• Linking continental emergence to climatic evolution
• Sustainable REE extraction from Australian ores
• Advanced geophysical ore body modeling for critical minerals
• Development of in situ Sr isotope analysis in shark vertebrae