The Harquail School of Earth Sciences (HES) at Laurentian University recently welcomed Lisa Gibson as the new director of its MSc Geology – Applied Mineral Exploration program.
In this new role, Gibson will co-ordinate the school’s efforts to build capacity and expand the master’s program.
Her goal is to ensure that this globally recognized and unique course-based master’s program continues to deliver the extensive knowledge and skills required by graduates to succeed and lead in the mineral exploration industry for years to come, said a press release.
Gibson has already initiated her work at Harquail, which involves program and course evaluation, as well as growth and development strategies, with support from the university administration, industry partners and other academic institutions.
Program development will consider bridging gaps with other disciplines relevant to the entire mining cycle (such as engineering, business, and environmental remediation).
She will also take a hands-on role in the classroom, delivering and co-ordinating graduate courses in the MSc Geology – Applied Mineral Exploration program.
Gibson brings 29 years of experience in the minerals industry, working for junior to major companies in diverse settings from remote field camps to underground drifts.
Her areas of specialization include nickel sulphide deposits, 3D modelling and exploration targeting, as well as project and team management.
Gibson is also experienced in geostatistics, working with multidisciplinary teams to define resources and reserves.
As exploration manager and principal geologist at Vale in Sudbury, Gibson collaborated on projects with university researchers at Harquail and Laurentian University’s Mineral Exploration Research Centre (MERC).
She also worked with researchers and students at other academic institutions, co-authoring papers and reviewing graduate-level thesis projects.
A press release said Gibson is pleased to take on the director position because it will allow her to use her expertise to optimize a program that prepares graduates for roles in an ever-evolving field.
She is also looking forward to opportunities to mentor emerging geoscientists, expand her own knowledge, and enhance the program’s global impact through collaborations and partnerships.
