Research & Technology Transfer

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, and 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