Mineral Resources (MinRes) and Curtin University are joining forces to drive innovation in mining and prepare the next generation of talent for jobs of the future.
Mr Ellison and Professor Hayne said the partners shared a vision to keep Australia at the forefront of the critical minerals supply chain as global demand continues to grow.
MinRes, which operates two world-class lithium mines, has committed $2 million to a critical minerals research commercialisation hub being developed by Curtin University as part of the Trailblazer Universities Program.
A key focus is internship opportunities that provide Curtin University students with practical, hands-on mining industry experience and puts them on a path to excel in their careers.
Interns also solve digital challenges for industry through Curtin’s groundbreaking program at Innovation Central Perth.
Curtin interns currently on placement at MinRes’ Osborne Park headquarters are already contributing to the development of world-first autonomous road trains.
As part of clinical placement program requirements, Curtin psychology students will work alongside Chris Harris, MinRes’ corporate psychologist and Head of Mental Health.
The formal partnership also strengthens existing areas of collaboration that date back almost a decade.
MinRes provides funding to the Moorditj Yorga Scholarship program, which supports matureaged Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women through their studies at Curtin University.
The company has also funded research that uses environmental DNA to survey plant-animal interactions. Known as eDNA, the tool is revolutionising environmental monitoring.
MinRes Managing Director Chris Ellison said the partnership will bring together the brightest minds at MinRes and Curtin University to find solutions to real-world challenges in the mining industry
“Together, we will accelerate the cutting-edge innovation we’re both known for, which is a key ingredient of our shared successes.”