Biography
I am currently a post-doctoral researcher at iCRAG working under the supervision of Dr. Murray Hitzman at University College Dublin. My primary research interest is isotope geochemistry with a specialization in Re-Os isotopes for use in geochronology and isotopic tracing. I also enjoy teaching and science outreach and do my best to take advantage of the opportunities iCRAG provides. I also maintain an active life outside the university sphere through my hobbies (e.g. hiking, climbing, sports, games).
Project title: Re-Os Geochronology of Sulphide Ores
My research is focused on figuring out the age of rocks and determining how they formed. At iCRAG I am interested in helping us understand why certain materials (e.g. metals, gold) are found where they are. For example, Ireland is a world renowned producer of zinc, which is important for steel and is increasingly used in batteries. However, we do not exactly know what age of rocks we can expect to find economic quantities of zinc. Knowing how old known zinc mineralization is will allow for better predictions on where new zinc deposits will be found.
Technical description
My current role at iCRAG is to develop a world-class rhenium-osmium (Re-Os) geochronology laboratory for the National Centre for Isotope Geochemistry (NCIG) at UCD. Once fully operational (2021) I will be dedicating my time to numerous projects that will attempt to date the mineralization of ore deposits in Ireland, mainland Europe, and Africa. Geochronology research is supplemented by petrography, in-situ trace element maps (e.g. LA-ICP-MS), and stable isotope measurements. I am also interested in applying the Os isotope system to environmental tracing studies (e.g. surface and groundwater tracing/monitoring). I am more than happy to collaborate with interested parties for research, or share my knowledge gathered about producing high quality, precise, and accurate, isotope data.
Role
- Postdoctoral Researcher
Institution
- UCD
Research Area
- Earth Resources
Expertise
- Mineral Exploration
