Dr Laura Miller is a Research Fellow at the Research School of Earth Sciences, Australian National University (ANU). She holds a PhD (2020) and MSci (2015) in Geology. Her research focuses on geochemical processes in magmatic and metamorphic systems, particularly using experimental petrology and spectroscopic techniques. Key areas include silicate melt oxidation states, carbonatite magmatism, and cratonic stability mechanisms. Employment History: ANU Research Fellow (2023–), Monash University Research Fellow (2020–2022) Her work integrates X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), isotopic analysis, and experimental methods to study mineral-melt interactions, oxybarometry in magmas, and tectonic evolution of ancient continental crust. Recent studies explore the role of pressure in zircon crystallization thermometry and redox controls in extraterrestrial materials. Publications highlight advancements in understanding magmatic processes, including monazite saturation in carbonatites, titanium oxidation in melts, and craton stability linked to lithospheric thickness. Miller has contributed to methodological reviews in redox analytical techniques and pioneered experimental studies at ANU and international facilities like Diamond Light Source. Awards: Clement le Neve Foster Prize (2015) Current research projects involve experimental characterization of rare earth elements in carbonate melts, funded through ANU initiatives. Miller collaborates extensively on global geodynamic studies and early Earth processes, with fieldwork in Western Australia and theoretical modeling of tectonomagmatic regimes.
Célia Dalou is a CNRS Researcher at the Centre de Recherches Pétrographiques et Géochimiques (CRPG), affiliated with the University of Lorraine. Her work focuses on experimental petrology and isotopic geochemistry to study volatile element behavior during planetary differentiation. Education: PhD in Experimental Petrology (2011), Université Blaise Pascal (Clermont-Ferrand). Research Themes: Isotopic fractionation of H, C, N, S, and halogens during core formation and magma ocean processes; volatile element mobility in planetary mantles; experimental constraints on early Earth and Mars differentiation. Projects: Principal investigator for the ANR CSI Planet project (2023–2027) studying carbon and sulfur isotopic fractionation during planetary differentiation. Teaching: Courses on planetary habitability and experimental petrology at the University of Lorraine's Master's program. Collaborations: Affiliated with CRPG's high-pressure experimental lab; collaborates with institutions like Carnegie Institution and University of Minnesota.
Linda Young is an Argonne Distinguished Fellow and Professor in the Department of Physics and James Franck Institute at the University of Chicago. She is a leader in atomic, molecular, and optical physics, with a focus on fundamental X-ray interactions, nonlinear spectroscopy, and ultrafast probes of nonequilibrium systems. Her work bridges theoretical and experimental approaches, leveraging facilities like Argonne's Advanced Photon Source and SLAC's Linac Coherent Light Source. She holds a S.B. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1976) and a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley (1981). Her research explores intense X-ray-matter interactions, nonlinear X-ray spectroscopy, and coherent ultrafast X-ray methods. Key interests include developing novel probes for atomic and molecular dynamics, advancing free-electron laser applications, and studying photon-induced processes in extreme conditions. Her publications emphasize X-ray free-electron lasers, ultrafast chemical processes, and theoretical modeling of ionization dynamics, reflecting a consistent focus on pushing the boundaries of time-resolved X-ray science. Awards and honors include: Honorary Doctorate, Uppsala University (2023) Helmholtz International Fellowship (2017) Argonne Distinguished Fellow (2007) University of Chicago Distinguished Performance Award (2007) Fellow, American Physical Society (2000) She actively contributes to synchrotron and XFEL facilities worldwide, serving on advisory boards for institutions like the Paul Scherrer Institute and European XFEL. Her leadership includes chairing the Division of Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics at the American Physical Society.
Kristoffer Szilas is an Associate Professor and Curator of Petrology at the Natural History Museum of Denmark, University of Copenhagen. Previously, he served as an Associate Professor in the Department of Geosciences (2021-2025) and as a Tenure-track Assistant Professor (2018-2021) at the same institution. His academic journey includes postdoctoral research at Stanford University (2014-2016) and Columbia University (2012-2014), culminating in a PhD from the University of Copenhagen in 2012. His educational background includes: PhD in Geology, University of Copenhagen (2012) MSc in Geology, University of Copenhagen (2008) BSc in Geology, University of Copenhagen (2006) Szilas's research centers on the petrology and geochemistry of Archaean rocks from Greenland, where he has conducted annual fieldwork for fifteen years. His work focuses on modeling relationships between ultramafic and mafic-andesitic rock associations to understand the evolution of the North Atlantic Craton. Current projects include investigating Archaean anorthosite complexes to test whether they formed through dry magma decompression rather than subduction processes, supported by a DFF Sapere Aude Grant (2021-2025). Another major project examines the 1.8-billion-year-old Nagssugtoqidian mountain chain to understand fundamental shifts in Earth's tectonic mode, funded by a Villum Foundation Young Investigator Plus Grant (2023-2026). His research portfolio reveals a progression from studying ancient peridotite enclaves and Earth's oldest rocks to exploring practical applications like mineral carbonation using Greenlandic olivine for carbon capture. His publications span high-impact journals including Nature Communications, Journal of Petrology, and Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta, demonstrating expertise across petrology, geochemistry, and tectonics with particular emphasis on Archaean and Proterozoic geological processes. His scientific achievements have been recognized through numerous prestigious awards: DFF Sapere Aude Research Leader Grant (2021) Carlsbergfondet Distinguished Fellowship (2018) Villum Fonden Young Investigator Grant (2018) Villum Fonden Young Investigator Plus (2023) Communicator of the Year 2021 at his department Szilas actively mentors the next generation of geoscientists, currently supervising three PhD students (Benjamin Eskesen, Benjamin Linnebjerg, and Lingyu Zhang) as primary supervisor, and has previously supervised numerous PhD students including Jiawei Wang and Ikuya Nishio. He has secured substantial research funding totaling over 30 million DKK from organizations including the Independent Research Fund Denmark, Villum Foundation, and Carlsberg Foundation. His leadership extends to directing the geochemistry research group at the University of Copenhagen, representing four other professors. He leads a dynamic research team utilizing advanced analytical techniques including Bruker Tornado M4 micro-XRF, powder-XRD, electron microprobe analysis, and Renishaw Raman microscopy to investigate ancient rocks. His laboratory work complements extensive field campaigns across Greenland's most geologically significant regions, from the Isua Supracrustal Belt to the Nagssugtoqidian orogen.
René Ziegenrücker is a Researcher at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) , working in the Accelerator Mass Spectrometry and Isotope Research (FWIR) department. His role focuses on technical aspects of (Super-)SIMS instrumentation. He contributes to advancements in accelerator-based analytical techniques and material characterization. Contact: Email , Phone: +49 351 260 2338. Research interests include accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) , isotope analysis , and ion beam applications , with emphasis on materials science, geochemistry, and surface analysis. He plays a key role in the DREAMS facility, advancing super-SIMS technology for precise isotope measurements. His work spans applications in geochronology, material surface modification, and nuclear forensics. Publications highlight innovations in instrumentation (e.g., PIXE/SLcam imaging), ion implantation, and analytical methods for trace elements and cosmogenic nuclides. He collaborates on projects like ferromanganese crust dating and steel quality control through 55Fe detection. No scientific awards or grants are explicitly mentioned. He advises no students, though his technical expertise supports collaborative research teams. Based in Dresden, his lab focuses on cutting-edge analytical tools for interdisciplinary research, contributing to fields from environmental science to materials engineering.
Nico Müller is a Researcher at the Geochemistry and Mineral Geology Department of Friedrich-Alexander University, Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU), affiliated with the GeoZentrum Nordbayern. His research focuses on fluid-rock interaction in oceanic crust, specifically modeling sulfur transport and origin in Iceland’s hydrothermal systems. Methods: Electron microprobe (EPMA), LA-ICP-MS, SIMS, PhreeqC, Leapfrog Courses: Ore microscopy exercise (Master's program), Harz field exercise, Field exercise Iceland His work distinguishes between hydrothermal systems fed by seawater and meteoric water using mass balance calculations to determine sulfur flux rates in Iceland’s rift zones.
apl. Prof. Dr. habil. Bernhard Schulz is an Associate Professor for Petrology at the Chair of Mineral Deposits and Petrology, Institute of Mineralogy, Faculty of Geosciences, Geotechnology and Mining at Freiberg University of Mining and Technology (TU Bergakademie Freiberg) in Germany. He has held this position since 2005, following previous academic roles at the Universities of Würzburg, Erlangen-Nuremberg, and earlier appointments as a lecturer and research fellow. His scholarly work spans metamorphic petrology, geochronology, and mineral deposit studies with particular expertise in electron microprobe monazite dating and SEM-based automated mineralogy techniques. Professor Schulz's research focuses on metamorphic rocks and petrochronology, employing methods including geothermobarometry, EPMA-Th-U-Pb-monazite dating, microstructure analysis, and geochemistry to reconstruct geodynamic processes and mineral deposit formation. His work covers regions including the Eastern Alps, Saxony, Armorican Massif, and South America. He also investigates ores and processed ores using SEM-based automated mineralogy methods (MLA) for characterizing metal ores, technical mineral processing, and recycling processes. His analytical expertise includes SEM automated mineralogy with MLA and EPMA electron probe microanalysis for silicates and Th-U-Pb-CHIME dating of monazite. Analysis of his recent publications reveals strong trends in metamorphic petrology, geochronology (particularly monazite dating), ore deposit geology, and SEM-based mineralogy applications. His work spans diverse geological settings from the Variscan orogeny in Europe to Precambrian terranes in Africa and South America. The research demonstrates consistent methodological innovation, particularly in electron microprobe techniques for dating and characterizing metamorphic events and ore formation processes across different geological timescales. Hermann-Credner-Preis 1990 der Deutschen Geologischen Gesellschaft (1990) Korrespondent der Geologischen Bundesanstalt in Wien (2001) Ernennung zum Professor apl. an der Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (2003) Professor Schulz has served on multiple review committees including the Scientific Priority Program (SPP) 1144 'From Mantle to Ocean: Energy, Material and Life Cycles at Spreading Axes' and SPP 1158 'Antarctica Research' (both Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft). He has received research fellowships from the German Research Foundation (DFG) and maintains active international collaborations, particularly with institutions in France, Switzerland, Austria, and the United States. His current research involves extensive fieldwork in metamorphic terranes across Europe, Africa, and South America, with a strong emphasis on methodological development in geochronology and mineral characterization. Professor Schulz works within the Institute of Mineralogy at Freiberg University, where he leads research on metamorphic petrology and mineral deposits. His team utilizes state-of-the-art analytical facilities including a Quanta 600 FEG SEM for automated mineralogy and a JEOL electron microprobe for EPMA analysis. He collaborates closely with Dr. Joachim Krause at the Helmholtz Institute Freiberg for Resource Technology, sharing access to advanced JEOL-JXA-8530-FEG instrumentation. His research group maintains strong connections with international laboratories including Géosciences Rennes and Université Paris Jussieu in France.
Anette von der Handt is a Researcher and Electron Microprobe Specialist at the University of British Columbia's Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, within the Faculty of Science. She previously held roles including Research Associate Professor and Lab Manager at the University of Minnesota and Assistant Professor (Akademische Rätin) at the University of Freiburg. Her expertise spans geochemistry, petrology, and advanced microscopy techniques. Education: PhD (Dr. rer. nat) in Geochemistry, Max-Planck Institute for Chemistry, Mainz (2008) Master's (Diplom-Geologin), Max-Planck Institute for Chemistry, Mainz (2003) Research Interests: Quantitative microanalysis of light elements (B, C, N, O, F) Electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) at low accelerating voltages Trace element analysis for thermobarometry Development of reference materials and novel analytical methods Applications in mantle processes and metamorphic petrology Key Contributions: Her work focuses on improving analytical precision in EPMA and SXES, with notable contributions to understanding melt-rock interactions in oceanic ridges and metamorphic processes. She developed the Probelab ReImager software for electron microscopy workflows and co-authored influential studies in Nature and Geology . Labs/Teams: Leads the Electron Microprobe Lab at UBC and collaborates globally on projects involving oceanic crust, mantle dynamics, and mineralogical analysis.
Dr. Andrew Grosvenor is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Saskatchewan. His research focuses on understanding how structural and compositional changes affect the electronic structure of rare-earth and transition-metal oxides, silicates, and pnictides using X-ray spectroscopy. He specializes in developing materials for nuclear waste sequestration, examining pyrochlore, zirconolite, and monazite structures. Education: B.Sc. (2003), M.Sc. (2005) from University of Western Ontario, Ph.D. (2008) from University of Alberta Research Facilities: Utilizes Canadian Light Source (CLS) and Advanced Photon Source (APS) for synchrotron-based X-ray spectroscopy His group synthesizes and characterizes materials for actinide immobilization, employing techniques like X-ray diffraction and photoelectron spectroscopy. Recent work includes nuclear wasteform corrosion studies , luminescent rare-earth compounds , and radiation damage effects on phosphate ceramics. Collaborations span Advanced Photon Source and Canadian Light Source . Teaching roles include undergraduate courses in General Chemistry (Chem 112) and graduate-level Materials Chemistry Research (Chem 801). Supervision of both undergraduate and graduate students is a core aspect of his academic contributions.
Dr. Julien Allaz is a Lecturer at ETH Zurich's Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences (D-EAPS). His research focuses on geochemistry, petrology, and mineralogy, with expertise in microanalytical techniques and magmatic processes. He leads the Electron Microprobe laboratory and develops tools like the De-MA.ch database for microanalysis. His work includes studies on rare earth element (REE) mineralization, metamorphic evolution, and volcanic processes. Education and Affiliations: Holds a PhD in Geosciences, with postdoctoral experience in geochemical analysis. Associated with ETH Zurich's Institute of Geochemistry and Petrology. Research Interests: REE mineralization mechanisms, melt immiscibility, microanalytical standards, and volcanic eruption dynamics. Active in teaching courses on electron microscopy and analytical methods. Publications: Over 20 peer-reviewed articles, including key contributions to Mineralium Deposita, Geochemistry, and Microscopy and Microanalysis. Focuses on advancing microprobe analysis and understanding magmatic-hydrothermal systems.
Dr. Stamatis Flemetakis is a Lecturer at the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at ETH Zurich, affiliated with the Institute of Geochemistry and Petrology (GeoPetro). His research focuses on experimental geochemistry, mantle dynamics, and volatile cycles, particularly investigating processes in subduction zones, mantle metasomatism, and the behavior of halogens and isotopes in magmatic systems. His work combines experimental petrology with analytical techniques to understand Earth's deep processes. Key research areas include: Thermal stability of minerals (e.g., phlogopite, antigorite) in mantle environments Halogen partitioning in melts and minerals Chlorine isotope behavior in subduction zones Geochemical tracers for mantle source characterization He teaches courses such as Composition and Evolution of the Earth and Planets and has published extensively on topics like volatile cycling, experimental mineral stability, and magmatic processes. His experimental work often involves high-pressure/high-temperature conditions to simulate mantle and subduction zone environments. Laboratory affiliations include the Institute of Geochemistry and Petrology at ETH Zurich, where he utilizes advanced analytical facilities for microprobe analysis and geochemical experimentation.
Dr. Razvan-Gabriel Popa is a Lecturer at the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, ETH Zurich. He specializes in volcanology, geochemistry, and petrology, with a focus on magma processes, eruption dynamics, and geotourism potential analysis. His recent research explores caldera cycles, magma storage conditions, and the interplay between volatile content and eruption styles. He teaches courses such as 'Microscopy of Magmatic Rocks' and 'Seminar I: Heat and Mass Transfers in Magmatology.' His work combines field studies with analytical techniques like isotopic dating and spectroscopic methods to understand volcanic systems and their environmental impacts. Notable contributions include studies on Nisyros-Yali and Aso volcanoes, emphasizing magma chamber dynamics and eruption triggers. Dr. Popa also investigates interdisciplinary topics like geotourism development in Romania's Buzău region.
Prof. Dr. Fuat Yavuz is a Professor in the Department of Geological Engineering at Istanbul Technical University (ITU), specializing in Mineral Deposits and Geochemistry. His research focuses on mineral classification systems, geochemical processes in ore deposits, and computational tools for mineralogy. He has been affiliated with ITU since 2006 and holds a PhD in Geological Engineering from ITU (1992). Education: PhD in Geological Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (1990–1992) MSc in Mining Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (1985–1987) BSc in Mining Engineering, Hacettepe University (1979–1983) Research Interests: Development of Windows-based software for mineral classification (e.g., WinCrtclas, WinClbclas), geochemical studies of mineral deposits (e.g., fluorite, Pb-Zn-Cu-U), and hydrothermal alteration processes. His work bridges mineralogy with computational methods, contributing to both theoretical and applied aspects of geology. Publications & Software: Over 50 peer-reviewed articles, with recent emphasis on mineral supergroup classifications and geothermobarometric tools. His software programs are widely used in mineralogical research and education. Editorial Roles: Editor for Turkish Journal of Earth Sciences and Türkiye Geology Bulletin . Advising: Supervised theses on topics like opal formations, biogeochemical sulfide oxidation, and sedimentary magnesite deposits. Currently teaches courses in Geostatistics and Computer Applications in Geology at ITU. Key Projects: Studies on Central Turkey mineral deposits, Iranian porphyry copper systems, and Neogene huntite sediments. His work addresses both fundamental mineralogical questions and applied resource exploration challenges.
Maude JIMENEZ is a Professor at the University of Lille, affiliated with the National School of Chemistry of Lille and the Materials and Transformations Unit (UMET, CNRS UMR 8207). She leads the C7-microprobe room and is a team leader within the 'Processes at Interfaces and Materials Hygiene' and 'Recycling and Functionalization Processes (PReF)' research groups. Her work bridges materials science, polymer engineering, and industrial applications in fire safety and hygiene. Her research focuses on advanced functional materials, particularly fire-retardant coatings , anti-fouling surfaces , and biomimetic designs . She specializes in plasma-based surface treatments, self-stratifying coatings, and nanocomposite development for applications in construction, food processing, and medical devices. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates polymer chemistry, materials engineering, and process optimization. The trends in her recent publications highlight a strong emphasis on sustainable and eco-efficient materials , including fluorine-free hydrophobic coatings, self-healing systems, and bio-based intumescent paints. She frequently investigates industrial fouling and cleaning mechanisms, particularly in the food sector, and develops innovative solutions to enhance fire resistance in polymers and composites. She has supervised numerous PhD theses, many co-directed with colleagues such as Serge Bourbigot, Mathilde Casetta, and Yannick Coffinier. Her research has been supported through ANR, ERC, and Interreg projects, and has led to several patents, particularly in plasma-treated fireproof materials. She also contributes to national and international scientific seminars and conferences, especially in fire science and surface engineering. She leads a dynamic research team and collaborates extensively within UMET and with external partners in industry and academia. Her lab is equipped with advanced facilities including electron microscopy, plasma platforms, and fire testing systems.
Gregory Dumond is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geosciences at the University of Arkansas , specializing in tectonics, structural geology, petrology, and geochronology. His research investigates the evolution of continental crust through metamorphism, partial melting, strain partitioning, and crustal flow, with fieldwork conducted in the American Southwest, Canadian Shield, Rocky Mountains, and Scandinavian Caledonides. His work focuses on: Deep continental crust dynamics beneath orogenic plateaus Genetic links between deformation, metamorphism, and magmatism Geochronological dating using monazite and zircon Collaborative applications of SEM, electron probe microanalysis, and isotope geology Recent publications highlight studies of monazite deformation, lower crustal flow, and Archean-Proterozoic tectonics across multiple continents. Awards include NSF fellowships, a Fulbright Fellowship, and multiple Sigma Gamma Epsilon Faculty of the Year honors. Teaching interests include structural geology, tectonics, metamorphic petrology, and field-based education at the University of Arkansas.
