Lily Quirke is a PhD candidate at The Australian National University under the supervision of Professor Greg Yaxley and Professor Andrew Berry. Her research will investigate the magmatic–hydrothermal transition in carbonatite systems and the factors controlling rare earth element (REE) and critical metal (CM) enrichment.
Lily’s work will focus on how carbonatite magmas evolve and fractionate as they transition into highly evolved liquids, including melts and brines, and how these processes govern the transport, partitioning, and concentration of critical metals. She will combine high-pressure experimental petrology — using cold-seal and piston-cylinder techniques — with advanced synchrotron-based spectroscopic methods, including X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS), X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure (XANES), and Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS). These approaches will enable her to directly interrogate metal behaviour and speciation under realistic geological conditions.
Prior to commencing her PhD, Lily completed a Bachelor of Science (Advanced) (Honours) in Geological and Earth Sciences at ANU. She has also worked as a Technical Officer and Technical Assistant within the Research School of Earth Sciences, supporting high-pressure capsule experiments in experimental petrology laboratories.
Through her research, Lily will aim to improve understanding of the processes responsible for REE and critical metal enrichment in carbonatites. Her findings will contribute to refined exploration models and more effective strategies for upgrading REE mineralisation to economically viable concentrations, supporting Australia’s leadership in the global critical minerals sector.
