Interested in AI-driven mineral process optimisation? Applications are open for a PhD opportunity in partnership with Deakin University and Molycop.
Key Facts
- Applications are open for a PhD student to conduct research on the topic ‘AI-driven mineral process optimisation’ in partnership with Deakin University and Molycop.
- The research will bridge cutting-edge academic work with Molycop’s digital and process optimisation efforts to enhance mining efficiency and sustainability.
- Molycop’s partnership with Deakin University reflects its long-standing commitment to innovation and supporting the next generation of mining leaders.
The partnership with Deakin University is proof that Molycop places value in promoting innovation and excellence. As the mining industry evolves, Molycop continues to invest in the ideas, people and partnerships that keep it ahead of the curve. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of artificial intelligence, process control and mining efficiency, contributing to research that has direct, real-world application across global operations.
We sat down with Daniel van der Spuy, Molycop’s Vice President – Technology, to understand why the partnership with Deakin University matters to Molycop and what the project represents.
Why is Molycop supporting this PhD project?
“Because it’s aligned with where mining is headed – and where we want to lead. Our customers are demanding cleaner, smarter, more efficient operations. That means rethinking how we manage mineral processing and applying technologies like AI and adaptive control to drive step-change improvement.“This PhD project is not theoretical. It’s grounded in the challenges our customers face every day. We’re looking to support research that delivers immediate insights and long-term impact.”
How does it connect with Molycop’s broader innovation strategy?
“It connects perfectly. Molycop’s Digital Services and Process Optimisation teams are focused on exactly these challenges – how to improve performance across the entire circuit. This PhD is an opportunity to go deeper, explore new modelling and optimisation techniques, and bring academic research directly into industrial settings.”
Why are partnerships with universities like Deakin so important to Molycop?
“Because they bring fresh thinking. We’ve worked with universities around the world for decades. These partnerships help us stay agile, identify new technologies early, and apply rigorous, evidence-based approaches to innovation.“The best results happen when academic research and industry knowledge come together – and that’s what this project is all about.”
