NSERC Industrial Research Chair for Colleges in Applied Mineralogy

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The mining industry in Newfoundland and Labrador is experiencing significant growth. Major investments are being made in new and on-going projects. Exploration activities are continuing at an expedited pace in a number of areas and for a range of minerals. This activity reflects the geological diversity and mineral potential of the province. The establishment of a NSERC Industrial Research Chair for Colleges in Applied Mineralogy, at College of the North Atlantic (CNA), will support this phenomenal growth in terms of R&D in mining sciences. As well, the chair will be a welcome addition to the research capacity of College of the North Atlantic and will work closely with the mining giant, Vale Newfoundland and Labrador (Vale NL) along with their team of HQPs and provincial research units. Vale is one of the world's largest mining companies operating in several countries. The company is willing to enter into a long term relationship with CNA through this new NSERC-IRCC program. In addition to a tangible in-kind contribution, including materials, logistics, technology and HQP, the company is offering a cash contribution to support the initiative. The chair will be engaged in multi stream research activities focusing on new process development and technology innovations in applied mineralogy, specifically dealing with the issues and challenges encountered by Vale NL in its current mining endeavors. The innovative approach in the Chair's research is to link the geology and characterization of the deposits directly with ore recovery processes. The chair nominee, Dr. Gary Thomson, a geochemist, is a faculty member at CNA. With an extensive background and experience in geochemical research, Dr. Thompson currently leads a research project in "Innovative Surficial and Mining Techniques" funded by the province's Research and Development Corporation (RDC). As well, Dr. Thompson has been working for Vale NL as a research consultant for several years. As an expert, he continues to enjoy the company's appreciation and unwavering commitment for a long term position as IRCC chair.