UQ has been named Australia’s leading research institution for Metallurgy by The Australian’s Research Magazine, recognising decades of pioneering work developing technologies and expertise that helps transform Australia’s resources into mineral and metal commodities. By providing metals and advanced materials essential to modern life, metallurgy underpins technologies used in renewable energy, electric vehicles, as well as all electrical and electronic equipment.
The recognition of these achievements comes as the University celebrates the 75th anniversary of Mining and Metallurgical Engineering at UQ during MetFest. The event, hosted by AusIMM, brings together metallurgists, engineers, industry partners, and students for two days of technical exchange, networking, and showcasing innovation across the full metallurgy value chain. It is a chance to celebrate this milestone with the community that has helped shape and support UQ’s work.
Since 1950, UQ’s metallurgy programs have driven advances in minerals processing, pyrometallurgy and hydrometallurgy, laying the foundations for the establishment of the Julius Kruttschnitt Mineral Research Centre (JKMRC) and international leadership in metallurgical education and research.
In early 2000, the University expanded its minerals-related research capacity to address the wider social and sustainability challenges facing the global resource industry by establishing the Sustainable Minerals Institute (SMI) with additional focus on reducing environmental impacts, and strengthening social responsibility, safety, and community resilience. Collaborating with communities, industry, and governments SMI is assisting work towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Emeritus Professor of Metallurgical Engineering, Peter Hayes, from UQ School of Chemical Engineering reflects:
“…. To meet our sustainability goals, increased supply and recycling of critical metals, and further developments in metallurgical engineering, will be essential.”
As UQ celebrates 75 years of metallurgy, today’s MetFest highlights how the discipline continues to deliver innovation that benefits society, strengthens industry, and supports communities, together shaping a more sustainable future.
