Balancing the Scales: Advancing Sustainable Mineral Processing for the Energy Transition

To mark International Women’s Day 2026, we spoke with Seher Ata, Professor in the School of Minerals and Energy Resources Engineering. A leader in mineral processing, particularly flotation and the separation of complex minerals, Professor Ata works closely with industry to develop science-based solutions that improve recovery, efficiency and sustainability. She reflects on the pivotal moment facing the resources sector, the importance of gender equity in technical disciplines, and how diverse perspectives strengthen research, industry practice and the global energy transition.

Can you briefly describe your research or area of work, and why it matters for the future of mining, energy or geoscience?

My research focuses on mineral processing, particularly flotation and the separation of complex minerals. I work closely with industry partners to develop science-based solutions that improve recovery, efficiency and sustainability. This work is critical as the industry faces declining ore grades, increasing complexity and growing demand for critical minerals essential for the global energy transition.

What excites you most about working in this field right now, particularly as these industries continue to evolve?

We are at a pivotal moment for the resources sector. The global drive toward decarbonisation and the growing demand for critical minerals are reshaping mining and mineral processing. There is strong momentum toward smarter, cleaner and more data-driven technologies that improve efficiency while reducing environmental impact. It is particularly exciting to contribute to solutions that directly enable the energy transition and to translate fundamental research into practical outcomes implemented in industry.

From your experience, what strengths or perspectives do women bring to research and practice in these disciplines

Women often bring collaborative leadership, strong communication skills and systems-level thinking. In complex technical fields like mining and mineral processing these strengths help bridge disciplines, connect research with industry practice, and foster inclusive team environments that support innovation.

How does greater gender equity strengthen research outcomes, industry practice and the communities these industries serve

Gender equity broadens perspectives and strengthens the quality of decision-making. Diverse teams ask more insightful questions and consider a wider range of impacts; technical, environmental and social. Greater equity fosters balanced leadership, a more inclusive workplace culture, and solutions that are better aligned with the needs of the communities these industries serve.

What message would you like to share with female students or early-career researchers who may be considering, or questioning, a career in minerals, energy or geoscience

These fields offer the opportunity to solve real-world problems that truly matter. Do not be discouraged by stereotypes or doubts; your perspective is valuable. Seek mentors, build strong networks, and remember that confidence grows through experience. The industry needs your ideas and leadership.