IOM3 Applied Earth Sciences Group welcomes new Chair

IOM3 is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Robert Bowell MRSC EurGeol FIMMM as the new Chair of the Applied Earth Sciences Group.

We are delighted to announce that the IOM3 Executive Board accepted the Nomination's Committee recommendation, for Dr Robert Bowell MRSC EurGeol FIMMM to be appointed the new Chair of the Applied Earth Sciences Group.

Dr Bowell has been working as a geochemist for the past 29 years, applying mineralogy and geochemistry to solving engineering problems in mining and processing. He has obtained a BSc from Manchester and PhD from Southampton universities in the UK. His background in the mining industry first began in coal in the UK, then moved to include base metals and gold in Namibia, Ghana, South Africa, Tanzania and USA, and tin-tungsten in Portugal.

He has been an IMM member since 1996 and a Fellow since 2014. Dr Bowell is a Fellow of the Society of Economic Geology, Geological Society of London, and Association of Applied Geochemists where he held office of Councillor, Vice President, President and past President. He is also a member and charted chemist through Royal Society of Chemistry, a Member of Mineralogical Society of Great Britain and the International Mine Water Association. He is also a registered professional geoscientist in Europe, Canada and Namibia.

In his own words, 'During my tenure as Chair of the Applied Earth Science Group I would like to see Earth Sciences raise awareness of benefits at university level and engage with young geoscientists globally to raise benefits of IOM3 membership. As part of this I would like to explore initiatives with short courses, publications and workshops through IOM3, by which gaps in university curriculum in economic, exploration and mining geology can be bridged, by IOM3 members, particularly more senior members who can contribute knowledge and wisdom to such endeavours. I would like to explore possibility of recognition for geoscientists through accreditation, either by strengthening the purpose of CSci or looking at other possible routes. In addition, I would like to spread awareness of IOM3 particularly in countries where similar institutes are yet to be established. I look forward to working with all members and prospective members in accomplishing this.'

Dr Bowell an adjunct professorship at Queens University, Ontario in Canada with research interests in supergene oxidation of sulfide deposits, solution mining and hydrogeochemistry. When he is not working, he enjoys Tai Chi, hiking, walking an elderly dog, gardening and mineral collecting.

Please join us in congratulating Rob on his appointment.