Laurentian University recently announced the appointment of Dr. Stephen Hall to the position of president and CEO of the Mining Innovation, Rehabilitation and Applied Research Corporation (MIRARCO). He replaces Dr. Peter Kaiser, now founding director of the Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation (CEMI). In addition to his corporate responsibilities, Dr. Hall will also directly enhance the teaching/research capacity of the university through his appointment with the School of Engineering, said a news release.
"I have kicked around the mining world and experienced a number of exciting positions during my career, but when the opportunity arose to join a growing organization, fully committed to advancing the mining industry through excellence in research and innovation, it was a simple decision to make," said Hall, in a news release.
"Laurentian University is delighted with the appointment of Dr. Hall. His experience in academia and research and his knowledge of the mining industry are assets that will help MIRARCO further strengthen bridges between the university, researchers and industry, in pursuit of innovation and quality," said Dr. Judith Woodsworth, president of Laurentian University, in a news release.
Dr. Stephen Hall previously served as head of the School of Science and Engineering at the University of Ballarat in Victoria, Australia, where he was responsible for education and research in geology, metallurgy, food science, environmental management and engineering (mining, civil and mechanical). He also oversaw the success of the School's recognized postgraduate program in occupational health and safety. He is a member of the Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and an academician of the Russian Academy of Mining Sciences.
Dr. Hall holds a PhD from McGill University (Montreal), a master's degree from Australia (Western Australian School of Mines - now Curtin University) and a bachelor's degree in minerals engineering from Birmingham University (United Kingdom).
MIRARCO Board chair Mr. Brian Maynard, vice-president, Mining - Ontario Operations, Vale Inco, was pleased to welcome Dr. Hall to MIRARCO. "Our industry has always seen value in applied mining research. Returns on investment are an important part of research, and so is the creation of new knowledge in highly qualified people to help keep mining a safe, competitive business. Dr. Hall's varied expertise is a valuable asset to MIRARCO, one that we anticipate will yield new and productive linkages within the industry."
MIRARCO tackles real-world challenges, specializing in mining technology, geohazard assessment, virtual reality, and environmental management. MIRARCO's mandate is to foster economic prosperity and community development through innovative applied research, partnerships, and transferring new knowledge to industry.
