Igor Ashchepkov | Mantle Petrology | Best Academic Researcher Award

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

Google Scholar | Scopus | Orcid

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.

 

Pedro Correia | Paleontologia | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Pedro Correia | Paleontologia | Best Researcher Award

Center of Geosciences | University of Coimbra | Portugal

Pedro Correia, a distinguished geologist and paleontologist, is affiliated with the Geosciences Center at the University of Coimbra, Portugal. His expertise lies in paleobotany, paleoclimatology, and the evolutionary study of fossil flora and fauna from the Carboniferous period. His work focuses on understanding the paleoenvironmental and paleogeographic implications of ancient ecosystems, with numerous significant contributions to the study of the Douro and Buçaco Carboniferous Basins. Beyond research, he has mentored students, contributed to academic curriculum development, and served as a jury member in thesis examinations and recruitment processes.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Pedro Correia holds a Ph.D. in Geology from the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Porto (2016). His dissertation contributed to the knowledge of fossil flora and fauna from the Douro Carboniferous Basin, shedding light on the paleoecological and paleogeographic aspects of the region. He earned his undergraduate degree in 2007 from the same institution, where he completed an internship on the zonation of floristic species in the São Pedro da Cova sector of the Douro Basin.

Experience

Pedro has served as a postdoctoral researcher (2021–2024) at the Geosciences Center of the University of Coimbra, focusing on the paleontological and paleoenvironmental characterization of the Buçaco Carboniferous Basin. His teaching roles include lecturing paleontology at the University of Coimbra and delivering online lessons for master’s students at the University of Lisbon. Additionally, he has guided several students in their academic research, advancing knowledge in paleobotany and taxonomy.

Research Interests

Pedro Correia’s research centers on the evolutionary, paleogeographic, and paleoenvironmental aspects of Carboniferous fossil assemblages. His interests extend to understanding biodiversity patterns, paleoclimate reconstructions, and the taxonomy of ancient flora and fauna. He emphasizes the importance of integrating paleobotanical findings with geohistorical narratives to enhance our understanding of Earth’s evolutionary history.

Awards

Pedro Correia’s contributions to geosciences have earned him recognition within academic and professional circles. He has been a jury member for recruitment processes and academic thesis evaluations, demonstrating his expertise and standing in the field. His scientific contributions to paleobotany and paleontology continue to be celebrated through citations and academic collaborations.

Selected Publications

  1. Correia, P. et al. (2025). A new species of Acitheca with exceptionally preserved sporangia from the Buçaco Carboniferous Basin. Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology, 334. Cited by 12 articles.
  2. Börjesson, L., Correia, P., et al. (2024). Discovery of the rare drought-tolerant plant Lesleya. Historical Biology. Cited by 8 articles.
  3. Correia, P., et al. (2025). Megaglomerospora lealiae gen. nov., sp. nov. Geobios. Cited by 10 articles.
  4. Correia, P. et al. (2023). Florinanthus bussacensis sp. nov. Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology, 316. Cited by 7 articles.
  5. Góis-Marques, C.A., Correia, P. (2025). Palaeopteridium andrenelii sp. nov. Geological Magazine. Cited by 5 articles.
  6. Domingos, R., Correia, P., et al. (2022). Devonian fossil association revisited. Comunicações Geológicas. Cited by 6 articles.
  7. Correia, P., et al. (2020). History of herbivory on sphenophytes. International Journal of Plant Sciences, 181. Cited by 15 articles.

Conclusion

Pedro Correia’s career exemplifies a profound commitment to advancing geosciences and paleontology. His interdisciplinary research and dedication to education have enriched the understanding of Earth’s history and inspired future generations of geologists and paleontologists. Through his publications, mentorship, and academic contributions, he continues to leave a lasting impact on the scientific community.