Shawan Dogramaci

Shawan Dogramaci is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the School of Biological Sciences at The University of Western Australia, with extensive expertise in hydrogeology, water management, and environmental impact assessments across Australia, the Middle East, and Africa. Currently serving as Manager of Hydrogeology at De Grey Mining (2023-Present), Dogramaci maintains active academic roles while leading complex water management projects for major mining interests. Their career spans government, international organizations, and industry, with significant contributions to hydrogeological science and practice.

Education:

• PhD in Isotope Hydrology, University of Adelaide (1993-1997)
• Master of Science in Hydrogeological Engineering (Distinction), Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
• Bachelor of Science in Geology, University of Baghdad, Iraq

Dogramaci's research focuses on the intersection of hydrogeology, hydrochemistry, and isotope hydrology, with particular emphasis on practical applications in mining and environmental contexts. As one of the world's few experts bridging theoretical isotope hydrology with applied field work, their research addresses critical challenges in groundwater management in arid regions, mine water management, and environmental impact assessment. Their work integrates sophisticated analytical techniques with practical field applications to solve complex water resource problems.

Recent research demonstrates a strong focus on practical hydrogeological challenges in mining contexts, particularly examining groundwater recharge mechanisms in semi-arid environments, the evolution of pit lakes after mine closure, and hydrological frameworks for water systems in non-perennial rivers. This research integrates environmental tracers, isotope analysis, and mathematical modeling to address water management challenges in resource extraction industries, with significant implications for sustainable mining practices and environmental protection.

Professional Accomplishments:

• Secured and managed six Australian Research Council grants totaling approximately $8M for water management projects
• Selected for Rio Tinto's prestigious RioExcel program (one of ~100 globally out of 50K employees)
• Technical lead for major international workshops including Australasian Groundwater and IsoEcol Conferences
• Developed the Atlas of Isotope Hydrology - Africa while working with IAEA
• Over 150 publications related to water modeling and environmental science

Dogramaci has extensive experience mentoring and advising students and professionals, having supervised post-graduate and post-doctoral fellows at both Flinders University and The University of Western Australia. Their grant management expertise includes securing significant funding for critical water management research in Western Australia. Dogramaci has led multidisciplinary teams across various organizations including Rio Tinto, where they coordinated hydrologists, geologists, GIS analysts, and other specialists on multibillion-dollar mining projects, demonstrating exceptional leadership in complex technical environments.

As a Principal Advisor in Environment and Water, Dogramaci has directed complex hydrogeological projects across multiple continents, integrating scientific research with practical applications in water management. Their work with government agencies, research institutions, and industry partners has established them as a leading expert in addressing critical water resource challenges in arid and semi-arid regions, particularly in the context of mining operations and environmental sustainability.