Bern Klein

Bern Klein is a Professor at the University of British Columbia's Faculty of Applied Science, specifically within the Norman B. Keevil Institute of Mining Engineering. His career spans over three decades, beginning with extensive industry experience from 1990 to 1998, followed by his academic role at UBC since 1997. He has held leadership positions including Graduate Advisor (1999-2008) and Department Head (2008-2014), and has been instrumental in establishing research centers like the Centre for Industrial Minerals Innovations and the Canadian International Resources and Development Institute.

Education:

• PhD in Mineral Process Engineering, University of British Columbia (1992)
• BASc in Mining and Mineral Process Engineering, University of British Columbia (1985)

Research Interests:

Professor Klein's research is centered on mineral processing technologies, with a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability in mining operations. His work encompasses:

• Comminution processes and energy optimization
• Rheology of mineral suspensions
• Sensor-based ore sorting technologies
• Water and energy conservation in mining
• Development of innovative mineral processing flowsheets

His research has led to the creation of Mine Sense Technologies Ltd, a startup company that has developed novel sensor-based sorting systems for the mining industry.

Scientific Awards:

• Institute of Mining and Metallurgy Transactions Best Paper Award (2008)
• Canadian Institute of Mining Distinguished Lecturer Award (2011)
• CEEC Medal for Best Paper (2013, 2016)
• CEEC Honorable Mention for Best Paper (2022)
• Mitacs Award for Exceptional Leadership for a Professor (2023)

Teaching and Supervision:

Professor Klein teaches courses including MINE 201 Mineral Resources Engineering II, MINE 434/524 Processing of Precious Metal Ores, MINE 508 Integrated Mining and Processing Systems, and MINE 579 Rheology of Mineral Suspensions. He has supervised numerous graduate students, with Uuganbadrakh Oyunkhishig being one of his Master's students.

Research Teams and Labs:

His research involves interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly through the Quantum Matter Institute and the Centre for Industrial Minerals Innovations. He is open to collaborations with undergraduate students and other researchers, fostering a collaborative research environment.