Sumit Chakraborty

Prof. Sumit Chakraborty is a Professor of Physico-chemical Mineralogy at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany. He leads the Materials Research Department and directs the RUBION facility, specializing in ion-beam and materials analysis. His research focuses on applying physical chemistry to geochemical processes, including high-pressure/temperature experiments and diffusion chronometry. He holds significant roles such as President of the Geochemical Society and has received major awards like the Dana Medal (2016).

Education:

• Ph.D. 1990 (University of Arizona, U.S.A.)
• Habilitation 1997 (University of Cologne, Germany)
• M.Sc. 1983 (Calcutta University, India)
• B.Sc. 1980 (Presidency College, Calcutta University, India)

Research Interests: Prof. Chakraborty investigates atomistic mechanisms of silicate flow, diffusion-controlled processes in materials science, and field studies in Himalayan metamorphism, Archean geology, and volcanic systems. His experimental work uses advanced facilities like pulsed laser deposition (PLD), RUBION ion beams, and phase-field modeling.

Key Contributions: His work bridges theory and experiment, advancing diffusion chronometry, magma dynamics, and tectonic evolution. Notable projects include studying cooling rates in oceanic crust, Himalayan tectonics, and the evolution of continental crust through collisional processes.

Awards & Offices:

• 2022–present: President, Geochemical Society
• 2020: Co-Chair, Goldschmidt Conference (Honolulu)
• 2016: Dana Medal (MSA)
• 2013: MSA Fellow

Labs & Collaborations: Leads the RUBION facility and collaborates globally with institutions in the U.S., India, Switzerland, and others. Active in field projects in the Himalayas, Oman ophiolites, and volcanic regions like Etna and Campi Flegrei.