Breaking Ground with Dr. Elham Hosseinzadehsabeti: A Journey of Resilience
Our International Women's Day Series Ambassador, Dr. Elham Hosseinzadehsabeti (aka Ellie), shares her extraordinary journey unfolding from her roots in Iran to her current role in Australia.
Overcoming biases, pursuing a PhD in the USA, and boldly relocating over 10,000km from home, Ellie's empowering story serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring women in science and mining. Watch video below.
The Early Sparks of Curiosity
Ellie's passion for science ignited during her early years in Iran. She shares, "The wonders of the natural world captured my curiosity through simple observations." During camping trips, she spent hours collecting rocks, arranging them into colour-coded piles, and consistently questioning their origins. Her parents were supportive, nurturing a keen interest in earth sciences that would ultimately shape her future.
"The rocks and minerals I have collected over my career hold more than just memories; they are a profound source of motivation and inspiration for me."
Education and Determination
Completing her bachelor's and master's degrees in mining engineering and mineral exploration marked only the beginning for Ellie. Driven by an unyielding thirst for knowledge, she expressed, "I felt an urge to know more about the earth systems and how they work and interact." This passion led her to pursue a PhD in the USA, facing the challenges of a new country with little support.
"Moving to a whole new country, far away from family and friends, with zero support—yeah, that was a rollercoaster of challenges. But I was fully committed to hitting my goals and making my dreams come true. And, it totally paid off!”
Global Recognition and Harvard Experience
Ellie's academic achievements reached new heights as she received global accolades during her PhD journey. "I won several national and international awards and research grants during my PhD." Collaborating with top-tier scientists in the US, she worked as a visiting scholar at Harvard University's Mineralogical and Geological Museum, contributing to a project cataloguing Critical and Type minerals.
A Bold Move to Australia
Australia's commitment to safety and innovation within the mining industry captured Ellie’s attention. “What I deeply admire about Australia is its robust commitment to safety and the well-being of individuals in the mining sector." This profound appreciation played a pivotal role in Ellie's decision to make Australia her new home.
Ellie's journey to Australia was not merely a career move; it represented a significant step for personal and professional development. She was awarded Australia's Global Talent Independent visa, a prestigious recognition reserved for exceptional individuals capable of enhancing Australia's reputation in their respective fields. This recognition not only highlights Ellie's accomplishments but also positioned her to drive innovation within the mining sector
Furthermore, Ellie valued Veracio's support in her decision to move to Australia and advance her career in mining innovation.
Expertise in Mining Value Chain Optimisation
In her role as an Orebody Knowledge Solutions Specialist at Veracio, Ellie excels in mining value chain optimisation. "My area of expertise is orebody intelligence, which includes real-time data collection, rapid orebody modeling, and geometallurgy." She actively collaborates with various mining companies, introducing advanced technologies and digital solutions to enhance efficiency, innovation, and excellence in mining operations.
"I am actively involved in cross-functional collaborations with various teams. At Veracio, we are committed to providing comprehensive end-to-end solutions for the mining industry."
In her work, Ellie emphasises the practical application of advanced technologies to address dynamic challenges within the mining sector. "My goal is to help these companies achieve greater efficiency and excellence in their operations and ensure they are always at the forefront of innovation and performance."
Ellie’s hands-on approach involves closely monitoring the operational needs of mining companies and introducing tailored technological solutions. "In my role, I work with various mining companies, closely monitoring their operational needs and introducing them to advanced technologies and digital solutions."
Her expertise extends to geometallurgy, a crucial field for optimising mineral processing based on ore characteristics. This specialised knowledge significantly contributes to the overall efficiency and sustainability of mining operations.
Empowering Advice for Women in Science
Ellie's journey comes full circle with her advice to women pursuing careers in science. "Embrace self-confidence and believe in your capabilities. Be authentic and true to yourself." She encourages finding joy in the journey and envisions a future with more women in leadership roles within the scientific field.
"In my role, I am actively involved in cross-functional collaborations with various teams. At Veracio, we are committed to providing comprehensive end-to-end solutions for the mining industry. My goal is to help these companies achieve greater efficiency and excellence in their operations and making sure they are always at the forefront of innovation and performance."
Veracio is a Signature Partner for AusIMM's International Women's Day Event Series. For more inspiring stories from our Series Ambassadors, follow AusIMM on social media using hashtag #CelebratingWomeninMining or catch up via our latest news!