Currently a
Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department
of Earth Sciences, University of
Bristol. My research (funded by De Beers) focuses on understanding
the volcanic emplacement of diamondiferous kimberlite pipe and dyke
systems. My Ph.D. thesis entitled "Fluidisation and emplacement
processes in kimberlite eruptions" involved empirical and process-based
studies to understand the infill mechanisms of kimberlite pipes.
Most of my research is based on detailed mapping of kimberlite pipes
(Jwaneng and Orapa, Botswana; Venetia, South Africa). Currently,
I am working on the Snap Lake Diamond Mine, NW Territories, Canada.
Research involves underground mapping of the architecture and structure
of a kimberlite dyke system with a view of understanding the dyke
emplacement dynamics. To improve the productivity and efficiency
of the mining operation, it is necessary to better understand
the geology of the ore body through targeted studies, including
large- and small-scale field mapping, experiments and modelling.
Additional interests include: the dynamics of gas-fluidization;
the influence of container geometry on bubbling fluidization and
gas-particle segregation; processes affecting diamond distribution
and the economics of kimberlite deposits.
