Disciplines of Academic Specialization or Research Interests

• Risk simulation, uncertainty quantification, and management
• Experimental design for metallurgical laboratories
• Extractive metallurgy flowsheet development
• Geometallurgy, spatial data analytics, and metal accounting
• GeoData Science
• Mineral economics

Personal Attributes

Strategist | Data Analyst | Catalyst | Innovator | Numerical Modeller

Career Highlights

• 17+ years of working experience in the mining, consulting, and academic sectors.
• Worked at the forefront of research in multi-scale/variate predictive modelling.
• Published one book and currently working on a second hydrometallurgy and data analytics book.
• Written 6+ book chapters in economic geology and data-driven approaches.
• Published 70+ papers in international peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Published 40+ papers in international peer-reviewed conference proceedings.
• Published 70+ abstracts in non-peer-reviewed conference proceedings.
• Delivered 25+ invited keynote lectures/presentations at international conferences.
• Convened 5 sessions at international conferences.

Leadership, Mentorship, and Research

My work focuses on applying advanced GeoData Science techniques to improve resource extraction and promote sustainable mining practices.

I’m deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of geoscientists and engineers. As a professor, I strive to inspire students to think critically, innovate, and apply their knowledge to real-world challenges. My experience in both industry and academia has provided me with a unique perspective, and I’m passionate about sharing these insights with those who represent the future of the mining industry.

Reflecting on my journey, I see how the values my parents instilled in me—a respect for service, dedication, and professionalism—have influenced my career. Although I didn’t follow the traditional professions they envisioned (i.e., neurosurgeon), I’ve found my own way to contribute meaningfully to society through my work.

The mining industry has always been a part of my story, from my father’s early days in the goldfields to my current research in optimizing mining practices. I continue to push the boundaries of innovation in mining and sustainable resource management.

I’m especially grateful for the mentorship of Prof. David Reid, Prof. Megan Becker, Prof. Jochen Petersen (University of Cape Town), Prof. Hartwig Frimmel (University of Wuerzburg), Prof. Raymond Durrheim, Prof. Judith Kinnaird (University of the Witwatersrand), Dr. Richard Stewart, and Mr. Manie Keyser (Sibanye-Stillwater).