Our research is focussed on 3 main packages of work, with additional cross-cutting themes of; biodiversity net gain, green finance, social science and the future of work.
Transdisciplinary Work Package 1 (TWP1)
Led by Dr. Rob Fitzpatrick, Prof Robin Shail and Prof Julian Ortiz with Innovation Fellow Dr Lebogang Babedi, focusing on developing new analytical protocols and geometallurgy models for critical minerals such as lithium, tin, and tungsten in Southwest England. In collaboration with Petrolab and other partners, the work addresses challenges posed by novel ores to optimise mineral processing, reduce waste, and support nature-positive mining. Using cutting-edge equipment and data modelling, the team integrates geoscience, circular economy, ecology, and community perspectives. Outputs will benefit regional exploration companies and inform global best practices, particularly in hard rock lithium extraction and sustainable mine development.
In collaboration with
Work area led by
Transdisciplinary Work Package 2 (TWP2)
Led by Dr Eva Marquis, working with Cornwall Resources Limited and Cornish Lithium and supported by Professor Karen Hudson-Edwards, TWP2 evaluates the potential of legacy mine waste for economic, environmental, and social uplift. By mapping and sampling mine waste, the team aims to create a mine waste map for Cornwall and West Devon, optimizing resource estimation and biodiversity plans to attract green finance and inform commercial strategies.
In collaboration with
Work area led by
Transdisciplinary Work Package 3 (TWP3)
Led by consultancy Geolorn and academic lead Dr. Matthew Eyre and Innovation Fellow Dr Lesego Senjoba, TWP3 focuses on exploration and extraction technologies for highly populated areas. Collaborating with Cornish Lithium, Geothermal Engineering Ltd, and Eden Geothermal, the team evaluates combined metals/heat/power extraction, reducing environmental impacts and operational footprint. The project also addresses community acceptance and industrial relations, promoting ESG targets and sustainable practices.
Transdisciplinary Work Package 4 (TWP4)
Coordinated by Professor Frances Wall, Carol Pettit, and Professor Karen Hudson-Edwards, TWP4 facilitates smaller aligned projects with companies supported by the innovation fellows, that look towards building future TWP-sized projects. These initial collaborations include projects for developing a strategy for mining communities, translating green finance lessons to critical minerals projects, improving social acceptance of minerals planning, and enhancing skills and training. Civic and government partners support policy and strategy, ensuring comprehensive and sustainable development. TWP4 includes a Civic Forum, as well as regular events with companies and organisations interested in the Centre’s activities.
