Biography
Nick is a post-doctoral researcher in the iCRAG raw materials spoke. His research is focussed on the establishment of geochemical vectors for sulphide mineralisation. Prior to joining iCRAG, Nick worked as an exploration geologist in the Kalahari Manganese Field and obtained his PhD specialising in geochemical fluid modification of the Proterozoic manganese ore of the Kalahari Manganese Field from the University of Johannesburg, South Africa.
With improved globalisation, there is an ever-increasing need for base metals on an industrial scale. Having once supplied Europe with significant quantities of lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn), much of Ireland’s base metal resources potentially lie undiscovered. Nick’s work at iCRAG aims to improve our understanding of geochemical vectors within the hydrothermal breccia closely associated with sulphide mineralisation.
Technical description
Forming part of a niche team focused on the Irish Ore Field, Nick’s research at iCRAG involves establishing petrographic and geochemical trends within the hydrothermal breccia or “black matrix breccia” that is hosted by the Waulsortian Formation and is typically associated with sulphide mineralisation.
Role
- Postdoctoral Researcher
Institution
- UCD
Research Area
- Supply of Raw Materials
Expertise
- Geochemistry, Economic Geology, Mineralogy , Chemical Vectoring, Raw Materials, SEM
