Elizabeth Holley

Dr. Elizabeth Holley is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mining Engineering at the Colorado School of Mines, with a research focus spanning technical and socio-technical aspects of mineral exploration, mine development, and reclamation.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Geology (Economic Geology), Colorado School of Mines, 2012
• M.Sc. in Geochemistry (Mine Wastes), University of Otago, New Zealand, 2006
• B.A. in Geology (Metamorphic Petrology), Pomona College, California, 2004

Her research interests integrate mineral exploration vectors, Carlin-type gold deposit models, sulfide mineral behavior in mine waste, and public participation in mining policy. She pioneers pedagogical innovation in STEM education through case studies on contentious mining projects.

Her 15 most recent publications (2019-2015) demonstrate expertise across:

• Technical Mining Geology: Carlin-type deposit characterization, Fe-oxide thermochronology, microwave-induced rock fracturing
• Environmental Applications: Sulfide sequestration methods, heap leach geochemistry
• Socio-technical Analysis: Social license to operate, conflict risk modeling
• Education Research: Active learning in mining engineering

Awards:

• Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar to New Zealand (2005-2006)

As Education & Training Program Coordinator for the Society of Economic Geologists (2012-present), she has organized over 50 professional development courses. Current NSF-funded projects (PI/Co-PI) include:

• Fe-oxide dating in Carlin systems
• Artisanal gold mine geochemistry in Colombia/Peru
• Rock damage from thermal loading

Her interdisciplinary Mining Geology Research Group collaborates with anthropologists, environmental engineers, and policy-makers globally, addressing challenges like mercury-free processing and stakeholder engagement.