The University of Arizona’s School of Mining and Mineral Resources recently hosted the Mining Social License Summit, bringing together voices from academia, industry, government, and the nonprofit sector for two days of dialogue on the future of mining.

After earning multiple degrees from the University of Arizona, Caelen Burand has wasted no time charting a successful path in the mining industry. From contributing to the early development of the School of Mining & Mineral Resources (SMMR) to securing international roles with major mining companies, Caelen’s journey reflects the power of mentorship, hands-on learning, and seizing opportunities.

Dr. Hee-Jeong Kim, an assistant professor at the University of Arizona's Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering and Mechanics, specializes in the multi-scale chemo-mechanical characterization of advanced materials in civil engineering. Dr. Kim is dedicated to improving the sustainability and resilience of civil infrastructure, utilizing digital fabrication techniques, including large-scale printing, to develop and apply new construction methodologies

A group led by the University of Arizona has advanced past the first round of a National Science Foundation grant funding competition that could bring up to $160 million. The NSF’s Regional Innovation Engines Development Awards program focuses on creating partnerships to accelerate technology development and spur economic growth through grants for projects spanning up to 10 years.

Dr. Lianyang Zhang, a joint faculty member at the University of Arizona’s School of Mining and Mineral Resources, brings a wealth of expertise in rock mechanics, sustainable construction materials, waste recycling, and ecofriendly dust control. Learn more about him here!

The award from the institute, part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, will fund the research of six U of A graduate students for the next five years.
"With this award, we are able to train graduate students in important areas and generate cutting-edge research that not only adds to the body of knowledge, but also contributes to the mining industry," said associate professor Angelina Anani.

The Sustainable Mineral Resources minor highlights the interconnected issues surrounding the production and use of non-renewable mineral resources and is open to students from any major or discipline. Students enrolled in the minor also have an opportunity to earn a $2,000 scholarship. Learn more here!

Hervé Rezeau, a joint faculty member at the University of Arizona School of Mining & Mineral Resources, brings a dynamic perspective to the study of economic geology. With a passion for uncovering the processes behind mineral deposit formation and a commitment to preparing the next generation of geoscientists, Dr. Rezeau is poised to make a significant impact on both research and education.

The mining and mineral resources industry is diverse, offering career opportunities across multiple disciplines. Here are 20 degrees at the University of Arizona that align with mining, highlighting their relation to the field, career outlook, salary, and student characteristics.