Wei Hong

Dr. Wei Hong is a Research Fellow in Critical Minerals Characterisation at the Centre for Ore Deposit and Earth Sciences (CODES), School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania. He has held this position since November 2022, following his role as an embedded MinEx CRC researcher at the University of Adelaide and visiting researcher at the Geological Survey of South Australia from 2019 to 2022. His research focuses on applying geochronology, mineral chemistry, and isotopes to understand magmatic-hydrothermal ore deposits, with particular emphasis on tin mineralization systems in Tasmania.

• PhD in Earth Sciences, University of Tasmania (2013-2017)

Dr. Hong's research spans resource geoscience, geochronology, mineralogy and crystallography, exploration geochemistry, and isotope geochemistry. He specializes in using mineral chemistry and isotopic signatures to unravel the complex processes involved in ore formation, particularly for critical minerals. His work on tourmaline mineral chemistry has provided valuable tools for mineral exploration, while his studies of quartz textures and trace elements in Tasmanian granites have advanced understanding of tin mineralization processes. His research bridges fundamental geological science with practical applications for mineral exploration.

Analysis of Dr. Hong's publications reveals consistent focus on porphyry and skarn deposit systems, with particular emphasis on tin, tungsten, copper, and molybdenum mineralization. His work frequently employs zircon U-Pb dating, mineral chemistry analysis, and stable isotope studies. A significant portion addresses Tasmanian geology, particularly Sn-mineralized systems in western Tasmania, while also extending to deposits in South China and South Australia. His integrated approach combines field observations, mineralogical analysis, and geochemical characterization to address fundamental questions in ore deposit genesis.

• Building capacity in Regional Australia to enhance Australia's Economy through research, training, and environmentally sustainable production of critical metals (Department of Education, Skills and Employment, 2022-2027; $3,537,047)
• Magmatic-hydrothermal volatile exsolution and mineralisation in Tasmanian Sn granites (Society of Economic Geologists Foundation Inc, 2015-2016; $5,705)

Dr. Hong currently supervises three doctoral students working on projects related to skarn-type deposits and nickel mineralization in Tasmania. His supervision portfolio includes the 'Characterisation of Skarn-type Deposits,' 'Atypical Nickel Mineralization in Metasomatic Rocks — The Avebury Ni deposit, Western Tasmania,' and 'Characterisation of skarn-type deposits: Renison Bell Sn deposit.' His research is supported by significant funding, including a major $3.5 million grant focused on critical metals research in regional Australia, demonstrating the applied relevance of his work to Australia's resource sector and sustainable development goals.

As a member of CODES at the University of Tasmania, Dr. Hong collaborates with a multidisciplinary team of researchers focused on ore deposit studies. His work intersects with various research groups specializing in mineral characterization, geochronology, and exploration geochemistry. He maintains strong industry connections through projects like the MinEx CRC collaboration and works closely with government agencies including the Geological Survey of South Australia. His international collaborations, particularly with researchers in China, reflect the global significance of his work on comparative deposit studies.