My work uniquely bridges fundamental geoscience with its practical application in sustainable resource management. As an Assistant Professor in the Department of Earth Sciences at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, I focus on Economic Geology with the goal of addressing pressing societal challenges—particularly resource scarcity and the security of critical raw materials (CRMs) supply. My research spans both the fundamental genesis of mineral deposits and the economic dimensions of metal commodities.
In my fundamental research, I specialize in mineral geochemistry—examining major and trace element compositions—and petrography to investigate the formation of metal deposits, with a focus on base metal deposits such as copper, cobalt, lead, and zinc, with particular interest in associated by-products such as germanium. Case studies include mineral deposits in NE China, Ireland, and Central African Copper Belt. I also explore hydrothermal and metasomatic processes and their role in forming rare earth element (REE) deposits, particularly in Sweden.
I also employ mineralogical and geochemical tools as fundamental methods to assess the economic viability of unconventional resource types, such as mine waste and deep-sea mineral resources. These non-traditional sources are becoming increasingly important in the context of resource sustainability and circular economy strategies. Through detailed mineral characterization, trace element analysis, and process-oriented studies, I evaluate the potential for recovering critical raw materials from mining by-products, tailings, and seafloor mineralization. This work supports both the revalorization of historical mine waste—turning environmental liabilities into potential assets—and the responsible exploration of deep-sea resources, contributing to a more diversified and resilient raw material supply chain.
Beyond the study of mineral systems themselves, I actively research the entire value chain of critical raw materials. My aim is to integrate geological insights into understanding how value is created and maintained through mineral exploration, extraction, processing, and supply networks—contributing to the resilience of CRM supply chains.
