Mr. Igor Ashchepkov | Mantle Petrology | Best Academic Researcher Award 

Mr. Igor Ashchepkov | Mantle Petrology | Senior Researcher at Institute of Geology and Mineralogy SD RAS | Russia

Mr. Igor Ashchepkov is a distinguished geologist and petrologist widely recognized for his pioneering research on the Earth’s mantle, kimberlites, and diamondiferous provinces. Over the course of his career, he has combined rigorous academic research with applied mineral exploration, producing groundbreaking insights into mantle xenoliths, magmatic processes, and the conditions that govern diamond formation. His work has significantly advanced the understanding of the geochemistry and petrology of deep-seated magmas, while also contributing practical applications to the exploration of mineral resources. With a remarkable record of scientific publications, editorial contributions, and international collaborations, Mr. Igor Ashchepkov has established himself as a global authority in the field of geosciences.

Academic Profile

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Education

Mr. Igor Ashchepkov completed his higher education in geochemistry, where he developed a strong foundation in mineralogy, petrology, and geological processes of the Earth’s interior. His academic training culminated in the defense of his doctoral dissertation, which focused on mantle xenoliths from alkaline basalts, laying the groundwork for a lifelong research career in mantle geochemistry. This specialized education provided him with advanced expertise in structural geology, thermobarometry, and geochemical modeling, which has since guided his innovative contributions to the study of deep Earth systems.

Experience

Mr. Igor Ashchepkov has accumulated extensive experience through his positions at leading scientific institutes and his participation in global research projects. His academic career includes long-standing research appointments at the Institute of Geology and Mineralogy of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, where he carried out fundamental studies on mantle processes. Beyond academia, he has collaborated with major industry partners, conducting mineral analyses on dozens of kimberlite pipes in Siberia and extending his expertise to diamondiferous regions in Africa and North America. His role as a scientific leader has also included serving as a convener of sessions at the European Geoscience Union, guiding research discussions on mantle petrology and geochemistry. In addition, he has acted as editor and guest editor for special issues of internationally recognized journals, ensuring that cutting-edge research is disseminated to the wider scientific community.

Research Interest

The research interests of Mr. Igor Ashchepkov lie at the intersection of mantle geochemistry, petrology, and diamond exploration. He is particularly focused on mantle xenoliths, superplume magmatism, and the mineralogical and geochemical processes that determine the fertility of kimberlites. His work applies advanced thermobarometric methods to reconstruct mantle lithosphere structure and composition, offering new perspectives on how diamonds and associated minerals form. By integrating field studies, laboratory analyses, and geochemical modeling, his research has expanded knowledge of mantle dynamics, contributing to both theoretical geoscience and practical mineral exploration. His investigations into mantle amphiboles, pyrope compositions, and superplume activity continue to provide essential frameworks for understanding large-scale tectonic and magmatic events.

Award

Mr. Igor Ashchepkov has been recognized with prestigious awards, research grants, and professional honors that underline his leadership in geoscience. His role as principal investigator on multiple funded projects has advanced mantle petrology research and strengthened international collaboration in Earth sciences. He has also been honored through his editorial contributions, where he has shaped global discussions on mantle geochemistry and ensured the publication of high-quality research in leading international journals. These recognitions highlight his dedication to advancing both scientific discovery and professional service.

Selected Publications

• “Mantle amphiboles from the lithospheric keel of the Siberian Craton: Reconstructions using new thermobarometry and geochemistry.” Geosystems and Geoenvironment. Citations: 24.

• “Late Permian–Early Triassic Kamensky dyke belt, NW margin of Siberian platform: Two stages of the Siberian superplume event.” Geosystems and Geoenvironment. Citations: 19.

• “Bulkur phreato-magmatic diamond deposits – new insights from geochemistry and thermobarometry.” EGUsphere Preprint. Citations: 11.

• “Ca, Mn, Na admixtures in pyropes as indicators of diamond grade in kimberlites.” EGUsphere Preprint. Citations: 15.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mr. Igor Ashchepkov is a globally respected geoscientist whose contributions to mantle petrology, kimberlite studies, and diamond exploration have significantly advanced Earth sciences. His innovative research has provided new methods for reconstructing mantle lithosphere structures and assessing diamond potential, offering both academic insights and practical applications for mineral exploration. His strong record of publications, international collaborations, and editorial leadership reflects his enduring impact on the scientific community. With continued commitment to expanding knowledge of mantle processes, Mr. Igor Ashchepkov stands as a deserving candidate for prestigious international awards, embodying excellence in both research and global scientific leadership.