Lluka is a PhD student at ANU, working in collaboration with CSIRO and Lynas Rare Earth through CSIRO’s iPhD program. Their project examines carbonatite hosted Nb-Ta, looking at the Mt Weld carbonatite, Western Australia. Through characterisation of both magmatic/hydrothermal and supergene mineralisation, they hope to advance understanding of the key geological controls responsible for Nb-Ta ore formation and concentration in carbonatites.
Lluka holds a Bachelor of Science in Palaeontology & Geology and a First-Class Honours Degree in Geology, both from the University of Adelaide. Their honours research introduced them to the world of unusual rocks and critical minerals, describing the enigmatic alkaline rock, nundorite, enriched in Zr, Nb and REE. Lluka also brings industry experience, having worked in mining and exploration across multiple commodities and a range of geological settings. Through their work and studies Lluka has developed their field and technical skills in petrography, geochemistry and structural geology.
Lluka’s background has given them a well-rounded perspective of geology and balancing the needs of research and industry. They are passionate about pursuing their love of weird and wonderful rocks, while doing meaningful and practical research.
