Research summary
The deep sea is emerging as the next frontier for mining as we search for mineral resources that are more environmentally sustainable. Although massive deep-sea sulfide deposits rich in gold, silver, copper, zinc and lead were first discovered in the late 1970s, we still don’t fully understand the resource potential of the ocean floor. Dr. John Jamieson, Canada Research Chair in Marine Geology, aims to change that.
Jameison and his research team are trying to unlock many of the mysteries surrounding these deep-sea deposits, such as their size, composition and location. They are conducting expeditions using research vessels to sample and create images of the seafloor. They are also testing new technology for marine mapping and exploration with autonomous underwater vehicles to help shed light on some of the planet’s most fascinating geological processes.