Exeter expert named among Top 100 most inspiring women in mining

One of the foremost experts in critical and green technology metals has been selected as one of the world’s most inspiring women in the field of mining. 

Dr Kate Moore, from the Camborne School of Mines, has been chosen for inclusion in the 2024 ‘100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining’ publication. The esteemed publication, produced biennially, highlights the wealth of female talent within the global mining industry. 

Produced by Women in Mining (UK), a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting and progressing the development of women in the mining and minerals sector, the book celebrates 100 women from around the world who go “above & beyond” and contribute so much to the industry and act as role models. 

Dr Moore is Senior Lecturer in Critical and Green Technology Metals at the Camborne School of Mines, based at the University of Exeter’s Penryn Campus in Cornwall. 

She investigates the sourcing and security of supply of the raw materials that are needed for the low carbon energy and transport transition, using geological and social earth science methodologies. 

She is an authority on the subject of technological small-scale mining. In 2023, she received the RCPS medal award in recognition of outstanding acheivements and contribution to Cornwall in the field of science and in 2019, she was a Futurium finalist for Women-led Innovation in the European Union.

Dr Moore said: “It is a real honour to receive recognition from Women in Mining, and to be a part of this community. It serves as inspiration and motivation to continue tackling globally-pressing challenges, and to keep striving for a more resilient, just and equitable future. I truly hope that more women will be empowered to work on, and bring their voice to, the extractive challenges that underpin modern society.”

Dr Moore is the third recipient from the Camborne School of Mines of the honour of being selected for the 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining list, joining Professor Frances Wall and Professor Karen Hudson-Edwards. 

For the 2024 edition of its 100 Global Inspirational Women in Mining” (WIM 100), the WIM UK team received 570 individual nominations and worked over six months to select the 100 finalists.

Professor Pat Foster, Head of Camborne School of Mines said: “I am absolutely delighted for Kate, and recognises not only her dedication to the mining industry, but also her pioneering research – particularly into the concept of ‘switch on-switch off’ mining.”

Gina Jardine, Chair of WIM UK said:“The 2024 edition of the WIM100 celebrates the trailblazing women who are breaking barriers and driving innovation in the mining industry during this pivotal shift to a low-carbon economy. As the global conversation on critical minerals intensifies, it’s crucial to recognise the people behind this transformation. 

“Women enrich the industry through diverse experiences that push forward sustainability, safety, and community engagement. While challenges remain, the achievements of these 100 inspirational women highlight why the mining sector must lead the way in prioritising diversity, equity, and inclusion to foster a resilient and innovative future.”