Researcher at Vienna University, Austria
The nominee is a highly accomplished geologist and researcher specializing in economic geology, with a robust foundation in ore deposit exploration and geochemistry. Currently serving as a visiting researcher at the University of Vienna, they have made significant contributions to understanding magmatic and hydrothermal ore-forming systems in the Urumieh–Dokhtar Magmatic Arc. Their professional experience spans over a decade, during which they have served as a CEO, project manager, and senior geologist in various mining and exploration companies in Iran. Their research integrates advanced geochemical techniques and isotope studies to unravel ore genesis processes, and they are actively involved in international academic collaboration. Their commitment to both field-based geological investigation and laboratory-based analytical methods distinguishes them as a well-rounded, globally engaged geoscientist.
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Education
The nominee is currently pursuing a PhD in Economic Geology at Lorestan University, focusing on the “Eocene Magmatism and Ore Forming Processes of Copper at Mamuniyeh Area (Central Iran),” with expected completion in 2024. They also hold a Master of Science in Economic Geology from the same university, having completed a thesis on uranium ore genesis in eastern Bam, Iran, in 2015. Their academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Geology from PNU University, completed in 2011. Supplementing their formal education, they have undertaken technical training in geochronology, GIS, remote sensing, and feasibility studies at prominent institutions, including the University of Vienna and the Iranian Mining Engineering System Organization.
Experience
Their professional experience is both extensive and diverse, including leadership roles such as CEO of two geological exploration consulting firms and multiple positions as project manager and senior geologist. They have directed exploration projects for copper, gold, uranium, and polymetallic deposits across Iran and collaborated with public and private organizations on national-scale resource development. Their responsibilities have ranged from detailed field mapping and geochemical surveys to isotopic analyses and reserve estimation. Additionally, they have held key technical roles in uranium exploration with the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran and managed large-scale exploration for the Iran Mines Development and Renovation Organization. Their industry impact is underscored by over 20 years of cumulative project oversight across strategic mineral sectors.
Research Interests
The nominee’s core research interests lie in the genesis of magmatic-hydrothermal ore deposits, particularly focusing on copper and uranium systems. They are dedicated to applying modern analytical techniques—such as zircon U-Pb dating, Lu-Hf isotope geochemistry, fluid inclusion microthermometry, and magnetite chemistry—to decipher complex ore-forming environments. Their ongoing work at the University of Vienna incorporates regional tectonic and petrologic analysis to refine metallogenic models for the Urumieh-Dokhtar arc and analogous geological settings. They are also passionate about integrating environmental considerations into resource exploration, including assessing airborne particulate exposure in urban geochemistry.
Awards
The nominee has been recognized nationally and internationally for their scientific contributions. They received first place at the First National Festival of Young Geologists of Iran in 2021, honoring early-career excellence. In the 2023–2024 academic year, they were named Outstanding Research Student at Lorestan University. Furthermore, they were awarded a competitive research grant by the Iranian Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology to conduct their PhD research in Austria. They also hold a Level 2 Professional License from the Iranian Organization of Mining Engineering, reflecting their recognized technical competence and leadership in the field.
Publications
The nominee has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, contributing to the broader understanding of ore-forming processes in magmatic environments. Selected recent publications include:
Goudarzi et al. (2025), Minerals, “Unraveling the Protracted Magmatic Evolution in the Central Urumieh–Dokhtar Magmatic Arc,” cited in studies on arc magmatism.
Goudarzi et al. (2025), Scientific Quarterly Journal of Geosciences, “Geochemistry and Tectono-Magmatic Setting of Hypabyssal Intrusive Rocks,” cited in regional tectonics research.
Goudarzi et al. (2025), Journal of Economic Geology, “Constraining Ore-Forming Processes Using Magnetite-Titanomagnetite Chemistry,” cited in ore mineralogy works.
Goudarzi et al. (2024), Ore Geology Reviews, “Genesis of the Mamuniyeh Copper Deposit,” cited in fluid inclusion and isotope geochemistry studies.
Goudarzi et al. (2024), Scientific Quarterly Journal of Geosciences, “Copper Mineralization Pattern in the South of Mamuniyeh,” cited in alteration and mineralogical pattern analysis.
Ullah et al. (2025), Geoscience Frontiers, “Geochemical and Geochronological Diversities of Pre-Collisional Magmatism,” with international citations in subduction dynamics studies.
Goudarzi et al. (2020), Journal of Earth Science Research, “Statistical Analysis of Uranium Geochemical Data,” cited in uranium exploration research.
Conclusion
Dr. Mohammad Goudarzi embodies the qualities of an exemplary researcher—intellectual rigor, scientific creativity, international collaboration, and practical impact. His publication record, field experience, leadership roles, and recognition in the global geoscientific community make him an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His research not only advances scientific understanding but also contributes meaningfully to societal and industrial development.