Research at Mines

Leading the Way

Welcome to the world of Mines Research and Technology Transfer. Research at Colorado School of Mines has always been inspired by the changing needs of society and has driven the creation of new technologies to address those needs.

Because of our historical roots in gold and silver mining, Mines is widely known for our geological and earth resource-related work, but the reality today is far greater. Our motto, “Earth, Energy, Environment” does not constrain the type of research we do; rather, it highlights the types of problems – highly complex, often under-determined, and dynamic – that we like to solve. The earth, energy and environmental challenges on earth (and beyond) will increasingly demand everything from quantum computation to new mathematics, as well as a “no atom left behind” approach to managing our resources, and Mines research today encompasses all of these and more. The collective talent of our faculty and students, combined with a culture of use-inspired and transdisciplinary research, are at the core of Mines’ success and enable a host of strong alliances with industry, with other universities, and with government institutions – many focused on discovery, extraction and recycling of mineral, energy or water resources. In particular, a history of transitioning new technologies to our industry partners keeps our eyes on our mission: research for the benefit of society. I am confident you will find on our website a sense of the vitality, diversity and problem-focused philosophy of Mines research, from discovery to invention to solutions.

Stefanie Tompkins
Vice President for Research and Technology Transfer