Funded
Research
We are co-creating programmes of work around grand challenges that allow us to rethink how to discover, extract, use and reuse materials. We are looking for radical and impactful science, bold and transdisciplinary ideas and deep and inclusive collaboration.
Grand Challenge 1
Delivering future materials for the energy transition with integrity: The Cu challenge.
project 1
Biomining
Developing next-gen biomining tools that use microbes to recover copper sustainably—cutting waste, energy, and emissions while unlocking resources from low-grade ores and mine waste.
project 2
Post waste
Transforming mine waste into a valuable copper resource by developing integrated biological and material systems that recover metals, reduce environmental harm, and create circular, site-adaptable solutions for the future.
project 3
CuBrine
CuBrine explores how copper-rich brines deep underground could be tapped using closed-loop, geothermal-inspired systems – offering a low-impact, low-carbon alternative to traditional mining.
project 4
First nations research agenda
Building strong, collaborative foundations with First Nations communities to ensure Indigenous knowledge, rights and priorities shape future research on copper, energy transitions and sustainable resource development.
project 5
The Cu Observatory
The Cu Observatory is building a secure, intelligent data platform to drive transparency, efficiency, and innovation across the copper value chain. From real-time monitoring to predictive modelling and visualisation, it’s laying the digital foundation for climate resilience, circularity, and equity in copper systems.
project 6
Knowledge review and mapping
Building the first global, transdisciplinary map of copper across geology, supply chains, governance and culture. This work identifies gaps and overlooked perspectives to guide future innovation, policy and sustainable practice.
project 7
Frameworks and methods for social-technological interaction
Developing systems-based approaches that bring together technical, social and ecological perspectives from the start. This work enables responsible innovation on materials challenges that is both equitable and sustainable.
Grand Challenge 2
Coming soon…
impact
Our impact
million US dollars invested into pioneering research to find better ways to provide the materials the world needs.
groundbreaking projects invested in so far to tackle global challenges faced by the mining industry and beyond.
leading researchers from top global institutions collaborating to drive innovation and influence policy.
strategic pillars
Our four pillars
Our strategic pillars guide everything we do. Radical research that shapes policy, fuels innovation and gives a voice to the next generation of leaders.
A powerful framework of system thinking to achieve lasting impact for science, industry and society.
Global thought leadership
Research
Innovation
Next generation leaders
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