Dr. Zhou recieves an NSERC Grant!
Congratulations to Dr. Zhenhao Zhou on his NSERC Grant!
Awarded: Discovery Grant for $175,000
Project: A five-year study entitled, “Temporal evolution of plutonic-volcanic systems from magmatic to post-magmatic stages: implications for rare-earth-elements mineralization”
Why this research matters: The migration of magma and fluids in Earth’s crust redistributes heat and mass and, in some systems, concentrates elements into ore deposits mined since ancient times. This program investigates how granite-based magma systems form rare earth element (REE) deposits, which are critical for technologies such as electric vehicles and renewable energy. By tracking the timing of magma emplacement, cooling, mineral formation, and volcanic activity, the project aims to better understand how these deposits develop. Additionally, this research project will help train the next generation of Canadian petrologists working in critical mineral exploration and development.