Katy Evans

Professor Katy Evans is a prominent academic in the School of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Curtin University, part of the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Her research focuses on fluid-rock interaction processes in diverse environments, including contaminated mine waters and deep Earth melt formation. She leads or co-leads projects totaling over $28 million since 2017, managing multiple initiatives such as the MRIWA-funded project and the Murujuga Rock Art Monitoring Project. As facility leader of the Curtin Experimental Geochemistry laboratory, she drives advanced geochemical research. Her expertise spans subduction zone geochemistry, metamorphic petrology, and ore deposit formation. Professional activities include editorial roles and international collaborations.

Research Interests: Fluid-rock interaction, serpentinization, subduction zone geochemistry, metamorphic processes, ore deposit formation, isotope geochemistry, and experimental geochemistry. Her work bridges field observations, laboratory experiments, and theoretical modeling to understand Earth’s dynamic systems.

Recent Trends in Publications: Prof. Evans' recent studies emphasize thermodynamic modeling of subduction zone processes, laser-based analytical techniques (e.g., atom probe tomography), and the role of colloids in gold transport. Her work on bio-mediated nitrogen cycling in serpentinites explores links between geochemistry and early life origins. Collaborative projects with institutions globally address pressing challenges in environmental geochemistry and resource exploration.

Grants & Projects: Lead CI on MRIWA project 470a ($1.02 million), Australian Research Council grants, and industry partnerships. Projects often integrate experimental facilities like the Curtin lab to address real-world applications such as mine water contamination and geothermal energy.

Lab/Team: Leads the Curtin Experimental Geochemistry lab, fostering interdisciplinary research in mineral chemistry, fluid dynamics, and isotope systems. The lab supports both fundamental and applied geochemical studies.