Patrick Zhang obtained his Ph.D. degree in metallurgical engineering from University of Nevada, Reno, USA. He has over 30 years of experience in phosphate research and 12 years of research lead in recovery of rare earths from phosphate processing as a project lead under Critical Materials Innovation (CMI) Hub. Since 1993, he has served as a Research Director with the Florida Industrial and Phosphate Research (FIPR) Institute, Florida Polytechnic University. In this post, he led the Institute’s mineral processing program to global prominence by conducting more than 20 in-house projects, managing over 80 research contracts, chairing 9 international conferences, editing 8 books on phosphate processing, authoring numerous technical papers and book chapters, and delivering keynote/plenary speeches at various conferences.

Dr. HagenGunther Jung is an environmental geochemist looking back to twenty five years in mining, in the nuclear industry, in academia and in regulatory authorities. He held responsible positions with a focus on radioactive waste and NORM. Since years Hagen has been supporting also the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Hagen specializes on mining & processing of NORM-affected raw materials and through his capabilities e.g. in environmental safety, decontamination, waste treatment/disposal, decommissioning, site remediation etc. he can provide essential support to projects and operations. Moreover, his regulatory experiences enable him to identify feasible solutions to get permitted and operate efficiently.

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Dr. Hagen Gunther Jung is an environmental geochemist looking back to twenty five years in mining, in the nuclear industry, in academia and in regulatory authorities. He held responsible positions with a focus on radioactive waste and NORM. Since years Hagen has been supporting also the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Hagen specializes on mining & processing of NORM-affected raw materials and through his capabilities e.g. in environmental safety, decontamination, waste treatment/disposal, decommissioning, site remediation etc. he can provide essential support to projects and operations. Moreover, his regulatory experiences enable him to identify feasible solutions to get permitted and operate efficiently.

Nedyalka Valcheva earned a Master’s degree in 1990 in "Technology of Vegetable, Food and Flavor Products" from the University of Food Technologies, Plovdiv, Bulgaria. From 1990 to 2016, they served as a teacher at the Vocational High School of Chemical and Food Technologies "Prof. Asen Zlatarov" in Dimitrovgrad. In 2014, they completed a Ph.D. with a dissertation on the microflora of healing and spring waters in the Haskovo and Stara Zagora regions. Since 2016, they have worked as a senior expert and organizer in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Physics at Trakia University, Stara Zagora. In 2023, they obtained a DSc. from the Institute of Cryobiology and Food Technologies, Sofia, for research on the physical, chemical, and microbiological characteristics of water sources in Bulgaria. As of 2024, they resumed teaching at "Prof. Asen Zlatarov" High School, with a research focus on microorganisms from water sources across Europe and Asia.

Sara Mosallanejad is a Development Metallurgist working within Draslovka Mining Process Solutions Innovation Centre, specializing in the research and development of Glycine Leaching Technology—an environmentally sustainable hydrometallurgical solution for the recovery of base and precious metals in the mining industry. She has extensive expertise in hydrometallurgy, heterogeneous reactions, mineral carbonation (CCS and CCUS), bi-reforming of methane, molecular dynamics, and electrochemistry. With six years of research experience at the University of Newcastle and Murdoch University, along with two years at Curtin University’s Materials and Corrosion Laboratory within Faculty of Science and Engineering, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the development group. Dr. Mosallanejad is highly motivated, well organized who prioritizes tasks, and fostering effective communication within teams, allowing her to contribute meaningfully solutions to both research and operational settings.

Dr Vesna Conić is Metallurgical Engineer and Ph.D. on Technical Science. She has over 20 years of experience in metallurgy sector and hydrometallurgical processes. She has experience in previous HORIZON 2020 “INTMET” project where she working 2016-2019 on developing bioleaching processes for the treatment of polymetallic ore. She was managed a project funded by Ministry of Science Republic of Serbia under the name “Development of environmentally and energy efficiently technologies for the production of non-ferrous and precious metals by bioleaching, solvent extraction and electrolytic refining-TR34004. Currently working on the project: HORIZON EUROPE "Novel Domestic Battery Grade Lithium Carbonate Value Chain For Green Life", under the acronym "Li4life, 2024-2027. She is also currently working as Project Manager: HORIZON EUROPE "Sustainable and circular production of critical mineral raw materials", under the acronym SCIMIN-CRM, 2024-2028. Other activities where she is involved are solid waste treatment, leaching and solvent extraction processes.

Dragana Božić is a Doctor of Technical Sciences, Science field: Metallurgical Engineering. In this moment she works at Mining and Metallurgy Institute Bor (MMI Bor), Department for Science. Her occupation is focused on: Adsorption, Recycling technology of wastes, Hydrometallurgy processes, Environmental protection, Wastewater Purification processes. She participated in 4 International Projects from HORIZON, EIT HEI Initiative, Interreg programs, SATREPS programs. She was a guest speaker in the EU Green Week “Be Water our Friends!” event held on June 6, 2024, in Huelva, Spain, under the HEI Initiative HEI4S3-RM project of the EIT. In the last two years, the Ministry of Science, Technological Development and Innovation has ranked her in the top 20% of top researchers in her field.

Jenq-Gong Duh is an Honorary Emeritus Professor at the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan. He received his Ph.D. in Materials Engineering from Purdue University, USA. His research focuses on multifunctional coatings, surface modification, solder joint reliability in microelectronic packaging, Li-ion battery electrode materials, and electron microscopy analysis. Dr. Duh has served as the Convener of the Materials Engineering Program at the National Science Council and as President of the Taiwan Association for Coatings and Thin Films Technology. He is currently Co-Editor-in-Chief of the Elsevier journal Materials Chemistry and Physics. Over his academic career, he has published more than 497 SCI papers and holds 25 patents. His current interest lies in applying plasma technology for advanced coatings and energy materials development. Dr. Duh continues to contribute actively to the materials science community through research, leadership, and international collaboration.

Dr. Carter earned his PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Ottawa (Canada) and has been a Research Scientist at CanmetMINING, part of Natural Resources Canada, since 2020. Dr. Carter’s current research focuses on advancing sustainable technologies in pyrometallurgy. He is working to elevate the technological readiness level (TRL) of the Direct Reduction of Chromite process, which is transitioning from TRL 6 to TRL 7, bringing it closer to industrial implementation. Additionally, he is exploring flux-assisted pyrometallurgical processes as innovative alternatives to traditional smelting and investigating the utilization of hydrogen and bio-carbons as reductants to reduce carbon emissions in these processes. Passionate about innovation, Dr. Carter is dedicated to developing novel solutions that address critical challenges in metallurgical industries. His work aims to enhance process efficiency, reduce energy demands, and contribute to significant reductions in the global carbon footprint. Dr. Carter is looking forward to collaborating with peers and sharing insights at the Metallurgy 2025 Conference in Frankfurt, Germany.

Ali Kalkanlı professor in Metallurgy and Materials science at Middle East Technical University Ankara Türkiye, currently serving as head of the department. He specializes in there search development and processing of metal matrix composites based on the matrix alloys such 7000 and 6000 aluminum alloy series with SiC, B4C and Al2O3 particle reinforcements. He is currently working in a EU Smart Project on Micro alloyed steel forging with collaborating with Mondragon University in Spain , Germany, Czech Republic and Teknorot in Türkiye. He has experience with low pressure and high-pressure A201 aluminum alloy engine casting projects, solidification simulation and characterization. Squeeze casting melt in filtration of ceramic preforms are main research interest of him. He is also an expert on metal powder atomization and rapid solidification processes such as melt over flow. Ferrous and nonferrous metal castings by thermal analysis is another interest field for him. He has many published international and national papers and conducted master and Ph.d theses at METU.

Ljiljana Avramović, Research Associate, is employed at the Mining and Metallurgy Institute Bor, at the Center for Development Technologies in Metallurgy, currently serving as the Head of the Center. She specializes in the research, development, and application of new technologies in the field of hydrometallurgical treatment of gold-bearing ores and concentrates; the extraction, refining, and recovery of precious metals from primary and secondary raw materials; and the development of technologies for copper recovery from mining waste. She is also a participant in national, IPA, and international projects focused on environmental protection. Dr. Avramović is the author or co-author of numerous national and international papers

MohammadAli Baghbanzadeh is a research Engineer at CanmetMINING, Natural Resources Canada, specializing in water treatment and critical mineral recovery from secondary sources. With over a decade of experience across academia and industry, his work focuses on innovative separation technologies, including electrochemical and membrane processes. Dr. Baghbanzadeh has led and collaborated on national and international projects related to critical minerals recovery, water treatment, and sustainable brine management.

Sami Ibrahim Jafar Al-Rubaiey is a distinguished Professor of Metallurgical Engineering at the University of Technology – Baghdad, serving since 1993. He holds a B.Sc. in Metallurgical Engineering (1983) and an M.Sc. in Corrosion Engineering and Surface Protection (1986) from the same university, along with a Ph.D. in Corrosion and Surface Protection Engineering from the Moscow Institute of Steel and Alloys (1992). With over 100 publications in high-ranking journals indexed in Clarivate and Scopus, he has also authored three textbooks and contributed to more than 50 international conferences and 60 scientific symposia and workshops. He is a member of several professional bodies, including the Iraqi Engineers Association, Arab Engineers Union, and Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials Society. Recognized among the Top 10 Distinguished Personalities in 2023 and 2024, one of his studies on silicon extraction was listed among the Top 10 Global Research Studies by the American Journal of Materials Engineering and Technology in 2022.

Evandro Gomes dos Santos holds a degree in Mining Technology (2014), a postgraduate specialization in Applied Geology and Geophysics (2016), and a Master’s degree in Mineral Technology (2018), all from the Federal University of Pampa (Unipampa), Brazil. Has eight years of professional experience in the limestone mining industry, working in mine planning, mineral processing, and environmental management. As a researcher, he works in the fields of Engineering and Geosciences, with a focus on Mineral Technology, especially in the areas of pre-concentration, sensor-based sorting (ore sorting), mineral processing, and environmental management. He is currently a PhD student in Mining, Metallurgical, and Materials Engineering at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil, and is conducting a research internship (sandwich PhD) at Gustave Eiffel University, France.

Lasisi Salami Lawal Associate Professor and Acting General Manager in Satellite Operations & Applications, he brings over 24 years of experience in Space Systems Engineering. He holds a PhD in Satellite Engineering from the University of Sussex (2014), following an MSc with Distinction in Satellite Communications (2011). A top trainee of China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) in 2007, he has received numerous accolades, including the 2023 IET Global Impact-in-Society Award for work in assisted living and robotics leveraging satellite systems and emerging technologies. He serves on several boards, including IEMA, I4CT, AJETM, and COREN, where he chairs the Aerospace & Aviation Sector. With degrees spanning engineering and business, he bridges academia and industry, promoting innovations in GNSS, space sustainability, satellite applications, and more. His multidisciplinary expertise enables him to tackle complex global challenges, connecting technology with real-world impact through evidence-based, sustainable solutions.

Anthony Yaw Mensah is a Senior Metallurgical Analyst with experience in gold processing, process optimization, and metallurgical test work. He has worked with leading mining companies, including Newmont and Gold Fields Ghana Limited, specializing in plant performance improvement, data-driven process optimization, and compliance with industry standards. Holds a B.Sc. in Mineral Engineering from the University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa, he is also a Six Sigma Master Black Belt with expertise in metallurgical modeling, data analytics, and continuous process improvement. His research interests focus on geometallurgy, comminution and data analysis. An active member of SME, and WAIMM, Anthony is passionate about driving innovation in mineral processing and extractive metallurgy.

Mohammad Hasan Golpayegani is a researcher and senior process engineer specializing in hydrometallurgy, mineral processing, and industrial plant optimization. He earned his Ph.D. from Amirkabir University of Technology, where his research advanced predictive modeling for grinding media dynamics, enhancing efficiency in mineral processing plants. With extensive experience in metal recovery, sustainable extraction, and process scale-up, he has contributed to the design, optimization, and implementation of metallurgical processes, boosting resource efficiency and environmental sustainability. His work merges academic research with industrial applications, resulting in improved energy consumption, throughput, and operational performance. Dr. Golpayegani has published multiple ISI-indexed papers and collaborates with industry partners to develop innovative solutions for metallurgical and materials processing. He is dedicated to bridging research and industry to create sustainable, high-performance extraction technologies.

Sandra Magagula is a Group Metallurgist for Genet Mineral Processing (GMP). Her role entails overseeing all Metallurgical processes in the business. GMP has both dense medium separating plants and air plants in the region of Witbank, South Africa. Sandra is immensely involved in the Metallurgical strategy of acquiring clients and new technologies through research and development. Sandra joined the coal processing industry in 2011 as a Metallurgical Graduate for the BHP Billiton company. She holds a Chemical Engineering degree from the University of Johannesburg. She has since then advanced into the departments of long- and short-term planning for life of mine. Sandra has worked as a Business Improvement Specialist, Superintendent at South32 South Africa with a green belt qualification in Lean Six Sigma. She joined OIM Consulting in 2022 as Business Improvement Consultant, a role that inspires change, continuous improvement, supervisory training and coaching. She represents GMP in the Coal tech Steering Committee forums. She is an active member of the SACPS organization and actively contributing to the solutions and technology advancements of coal mineral processing in South Africa. She recently holds a Women in Leadership qualification from the University of North-West. She has passion in development of the upcoming engineers and women in the mining sector.

Souad Ayadi is an Assistant Professor at Badji Mokhtar University - Annaba. She holds a State Engineer degree in Materials Science and Engineering, as well as a Master’s degree in Surface Engineering, both obtained from the Higher School of Mining and Metallurgy in Annaba. She later pursued a PhD in Foundry. Her research focuses mainly on the tribology of metallic materials, the optimization of foundry alloys, and the improvement of mechanical and tribological properties through the addition of alloying elements, as well as heat and surface treatments. She is also interested in innovative metal forming processes and their impact on in-service performance. She has published several scientific articles in international journals and has participated in various conferences specializing in metallurgy and tribology. She also collaborates with research laboratories in Algeria and internationally.

Vanja Trifunović has a Master of Technology Engineering degree, and is currently at the very end of her PhD studies. She is employed at the Mining and Metallurgy Institute Bor, at the Center for Development Technologies in Metallurgy, in the Department of Precious Metals Refining. She is engaged in the hydrometallurgical treatment of raw materials containing precious metals (mainly Au, Ag, Pt, Pd and Rh) and their extraction. Also, she is involved in research, development and application of new technologies for the valorization of useful components from hazardous industrial waste and other types of waste, the development of technologies for wastewater treatment, as well as the preparation of research projects. Vanja Trifunović is the author and co-author of scientific papers published in international and national journals, as well as a large number of studies (expertises), and achieved investigating results has presented at conferences of international and national importance.

Program Manager, Mineral Processing (MinProc) – Amira Global As a Program Manager, Mineral Processing (MinProc) at Amira Global, I lead and manage multiple projects aimed at advancing innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in the mining and mineral processing industry. My role involves overseeing strategic research initiatives, engaging with industry sponsors, and ensuring the successful execution of programs that drive technological advancements and process optimization. Professional Experience & Expertise: Project Leadership & Industry Collaboration: I work closely with mining companies, research institutions, and technology providers to develop and implement cutting-edge mineral processing solutions. Technical Expertise in Mineral Processing & Seismic Hazard Programs: I manage key Amira research projects, including mineral processing optimization and mining seismic hazard programs, ensuring alignment with industry needs and best practices. Prior Experience in Tailings Storage Facilities (TSF): Before joining Amira, I worked as a TSF Technical Support at Fraser Alexander, providing engineering and operational support to tailings storage facilities operations, ensuring stability and compliance with industry regulations. Research & Publications: I have contributed to materials science and engineering research, particularly in the strengthening effects of minor element additions (rare-earth elements and alkali earth metals) on metallic materials. Additionally, I have conducted research on fungal biomass treatment of gold ores and its impact on downstream processes in mineral processing. Passion & Commitment: I am deeply passionate about leveraging my expertise to solve complex industry challenges and create sustainable, innovative solutions in the mining, metals, and minerals sector. Through research, collaboration, and strategic project execution, I strive to drive meaningful impact in the industry.

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Elves Matiolo holds a degree in Mining Engineering from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (2003), Master (2005) and a PhD in Mineral Processing and Extractive Metallurgy from UFRGS (2008). He worked as Process Engineer between 2007 and 2011 at Bunge Fertilizers and Vale Fertilizers in Araxá (Barreiro Mine, Brazil) and also at Vale (Mineral Development Center (CDM) in Santa Luzia (MG) between 2011 and 2013. He is currently Titular Researcher at the Center for Mineral Technology (CETEM), an Institute linked to the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI) of Brazil, located at Rio de Janeiro (RJ). He has experience in the area of Mineral Processing, with emphasis on the following topics: flotation of fine and ultrafine mineral particles; flotation of sulphides of copper, molybdenum, lead/zinc; phosphate ore; rare-earths ore; niobium and iron ores; column flotation; mini pilot plant; bench scale tests.

Philipa Amoakoa Opoku is currently pursuing a PhD in Mining and Metallurgical Engineering at Curtin University, where her research focuses on the coarse particle processing of lithium ores. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and a Master of Science in Energy and Sustainable Management from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. With three years of experience as an operations engineer at the Ghana National Gas Company, Philipa brings valuable insights into the energy industry. Passionate about sustainability, she aims to contribute to the development of innovative techniques that promote resource efficiency and minimize environmental impact. Through her academic and professional journey, Philipa is committed to driving positive change and advancing sustainability practices within the mining and energy sectors. Her vision is to create a more sustainable future by integrating cutting-edge research with practical industry experience.

Zain Abbas is a dedicated graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree in Materials Engineering at California State University, Northridge. With a passion for advancing research in biomaterials and nanomaterials, he strives to contribute to innovative solutions for healthcare challenges. His academic journey is marked by a successful project focused on osteoarthritis, where he explored advanced materials for therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Zain remains enthusiastic about pushing the boundaries of materials science to address pressing medical and technological needs.