- Supported research drives innovation in sustainable mineral production, reinforcing Western Australia's position as a global leader in the minerals industry
- Minerals sector is strengthened through MRIWA's 2025 PhD scholarships and student placements, fostering innovative research and industry advancement
- Strategic research into critical minerals and exploration technologies strengthens supply chain stability, ensuring long-term economic benefits for Western Australia
The Cook Government is continuing its commitment to supporting research and innovation in the Western Australia's powerhouse minerals sector by announcing the 2025 cohort for the Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia's (MRIWA) 2025 PhD scholarships and student placements scheme.
The Government and MRIWA welcomes Kenneth Akiti, Yasamin Hamidian, and Farid Ullah as the 2025 PhD Scholarship cohort, each tackling critical challenges in the minerals industry.
- Kenneth Akiti has been awarded the prestigious Odwyn Jones PhD Scholarship for his research into the responsible management of retired mining vehicle batteries, addressing environmental and economic challenges;
- Yasamin Hamidian received the MRIWA PhD Scholarship for Women for her innovative work on developing a gas-assisted ion-selective membrane for lithium-ion extraction from tailings; and
- Farid Ullah was awarded the MRIWA PhD Scholarship for his research into advanced integration of electromagnetic data in the tomofast X inversion code to enhance mineral exploration.
These scholarships reflect the State Government's and MRIWA's dedication to fostering world-class research that supports WA's position as a global leader in sustainable mineral production.
MRIWA is proud to support students through the Trailblazer Universities Program, under Curtin University's Resource Technology and Critical Minerals Trailblazer Program.
This initiative partners with universities and businesses nationwide to strengthen Australia's critical minerals industry and safeguard against future supply chain disruptions.
Students Christofeel Wessels, Ahmed Ibrahim, Anvar Mammadi and Philipa Opuku, supervised by Dr George Barakos, have developed commodity overview statements for each critical mineral on Australia's critical minerals list, contributing to strategic industry planning and growth.
MRIWA also welcomes four new students to the Co-operative Education for Enterprise Development (CEED) program, delivered through the University of Western Australia.
Thi Bao Tram (Phoebe) Tran, Sarah Scott, Nikhil Nair Sunil Kumar, and Keely Gausten will work on strategic research projects within the minerals sector, delivering direct benefits to WA.
These projects, sponsored by MRIWA, allow students to earn academic credit while gaining hands-on experience.
As stated by Mines and Petroleum Minister David Michael:
"Western Australia's minerals sector is a cornerstone of our economy, and these talented students are helping to drive the innovation needed to keep our State at the forefront of the global industry.
"Through MRIWA's PhD Scholarships, Trailblazer, and CEED programs, we are investing in the next generation of researchers to deliver sustainable, cutting-edge solutions for the challenges of tomorrow.
"We are excited to welcome this exceptional group of students whose research will contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous Western Australian minerals industry."
