Research
Advancing Technology for Responsible Mining
The U of A School of Mining Engineering & Mineral Resources is the home of forward-thinking research focused on improving the industry and meeting our society’s vital mineral demands. Faculty and students collaborate with researchers around the globe to ensure a better world for future generations.
Join SMEMR to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of today. Design better ways to conserve water in mining, optimize AI techniques for safety, investigate novel chemical extraction processes, devise methods for mining asteroids, and invent high-tech optical sensors.
Interdisciplinary Research Focus Areas
Tailor your efforts to meet your interests in focus areas including:
- Economic geology and mineral discovery
- Geophysical sensing techniques
- Mine health and safety
- Mineral and chemical characterization
- Mineral processing, geometallurgy and extractive metallurgy
- Mining law and policy
- Operations technology, AI and automation
- Rock strength, fracturing and excavation
- Responsible mining and development
- Tailings management, revegetation, and valorization
The school heavily emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, as SMEMR researchers work with experts in an array of other fields, including business, law, humanities, engineering and science.
Collaborative Research Centers & Facilities
The University of Arizona and the School of Mining Engineering & Mineral Resources boast highly-funded research centers and facilities that push the boundaries of industry technology.
Work with global leaders in the field to help design the future of mining at research hubs including the Lowell Institute for Mineral Resources, the Geotechnical Center of Excellence, the Center for Excellence in Mine Safety, and the Center for Environmentally Sustainable Mining.
Learn and train with industry-standard equipment in SMEMR’s San Xavier Mine, a one-of-a-kind student-operated laboratory. Or hone your skills in advanced laboratories using simulation software and virtual reality gear for digitally-enabled mining operations.
Featured Videos
How Minerals Built Our World
Isabel Barton, associate professor
Break The Ice Lunar Challenge
Wildcat Moon Miners - Aqua Blue
Get More Information
Become a UA Engineering Wildcat. Get more information to start you on your path.