Sepehr Ghaderi

Hometown: East Azerbaijan, northeastern part of Iran

Undergraduate Degree: Extractive Metallurgy

Research Title: Energy-Relevant Elements Recovery from CO2-Reactive Minerals During Carbon Mineralization

Research Story: CO2-reactive minerals are not only perfect carbon sinks but also promising sources of energy-relevant elements. Combining energy-relevant element recovery with carbon mineralization will promote energy-relevant element production and harmful carbon emissions. The primary objective of this project is to develop an innovative carbon mineralization/metal extraction technology (CMME) that enables the recovery of energy-relevant elements, specifically Ni and Co, during direct and indirect carbon mineralization processes.

Why did you choose the Mining and Minerals Engineering Department at Virginia Tech?

In my research field, there are only a few universities in the entire U.S., and Virginia Tech is one of the pioneers that I can aspire to my professional goals alongside elite advisors and peers.

How did you get interested in mining?

“That is FASCINATING!” That’s what I said when I listened to the department head when he started to talk about the mining and minerals processing major. I drove 500 miles to attend a conference where most of the engineering majors were being introduced. When I got there, I was exhausted and almost slept the whole conference except when the head of the mining department started to talk.

What are your career aspirations after completing your degree?

I would love to be a supervisor in the R&D sections to keep researching in industrial environments.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

I read novels when I’m free. Sometimes, I have to listen to audiobooks because finding Persian books in Blacksburg is hard.

What's your favorite meal to eat or cook?

I love Ghormeh Sabzi, a traditional Iranian meal that my wife cooks perfectly.

What's your favorite thing about Virginia Tech?

My favorite thing about VT is the excellent community. Everyone wants to help each other and have a fantastic experience living in Blacksburg.