We are delighted to share that the 2025 Brian J. Skinner Award has been awarded to Robert (Bob) Loucks (right), along with co-authors Gonzalo J. Henríquez and Marco L. Fiorentini, for their outstanding paper published in Economic Geology:
(Economic Geology, Vol. 119, No. 3, May 2024, pp. 511–523).
This prestigious award, presented annually, recognises the most innovative and original paper published in Economic Geology appearing in any of the eight issues of a single volume of the journal. Judged on technical excellence, innovation, and impact on the science of economic geology, the winner is selected by the journal’s Editorial Board and ratified by the SEG Council.
About the Winner:
Dr. Bob Loucks earned his PhD in geochemistry/metallogeny from Harvard University in 1984 and held academic positions at Purdue University and the Australian National University before joining the Centre for Exploration Targeting in 2009. Throughout his career, he has made significant contributions to the study of arc magmatism, metallogeny, and mineral exploration.
The awarded paper presents an innovative approach to identifying copper fertility in arc magmas by analysing zircon and whole-rock trace elements. The study links specific trace elements—such as cerium, uranium, titanium, europium, and ytterbium—to the oxidation and hydration states of magmas, enabling the distinction between ore-forming and barren systems. Significantly, the method could be applied to detrital zircons in stream sediments, offering a powerful tool for early-stage exploration.
Editor David R. Cooke commended the study’s impact:
“Your contribution bridges basic and applied research, offering real-world applications for mineral exploration. Given the importance of copper in the global energy transition, this work will play a vital role in helping companies identify new porphyry systems.”
The award will be formally presented at an upcoming SEG awards function. We extend our warmest congratulations to Bob and his co-authors on this exceptional achievement.
CONGRATULATIONS BOB!