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Areas of interest
Dr. Xu is an economic geologist specializing in the geochemistry of critical metals and ore-forming processes. Her research investigates high-temperature melts and fluids involved in mineralization within crustal environments, including porphyry, skarn, iron oxide鈥揳patite (IOA), carbonatite, and pegmatite systems. She uses fluid and melt inclusion analysis to examine the transport, enrichment, and deposition of metals. Dr. Xu鈥檚 work has redefined the origins of skarn and IOA deposits and introduced salt melts as a distinct type of geologic fluid. Her current research focuses on the geological processes responsible for the formation of critical mineral resources in Canada, particularly in British Columbia.
Education
- BSc., Anhui University of Science and Technology, China, 2018
- Ph.D., Hefei University of Technology, China, 2022
Courses
Spring 2027
Future courses may be subject to change.
Publications
Research Opportunities: Geochemistry & Economic Geology
Our new research group is seeking highly motivated MSc and PhD students to join us starting in 2026 Spring/Fall. We explore fundamental processes of metal transport and concentration in magmatic-hydrothermal systems. The group will be equipped with a new, state-of-the-art experimental and analytical facility, including a confocal Raman spectrometer and specialized apparatus for melt-fluid inclusion studies and high-PT experiments.
Our work primarily focuses on:
路 Ore-Forming Fluids: Unraveling the evolution and metal enrichment mechanisms in systems such as porphyry, skarn, and iron-oxide apatite (IOA) deposits.
路 Critical Metal Geochemistry: Investigating the petrogenesis and mineralization processes of rare earth elements (REE) and rare metals in alkaline-carbonatite and pegmatite systems.
路 Experimental Petrology: Conducting high-pressure-temperature experiments to simulate melt properties and metal partitioning behavior.
What We Offer:
路 Full financial support.
路 The opportunity to be a founding member of a new lab and help shape its culture.
路 Training in advanced experimental and analytical techniques.
路 A collaborative research environment involving international teams from diverse backgrounds, including academia, government agencies, and industry.
路 The vibrant and livable city of Vancouver, offering a stunning natural environment and a high quality of life.
Desired Qualifications:
路 A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geology, Geochemistry, or a closely related field.
路 Strong self-motivation, curiosity, and a passion for hands-on laboratory research.
路 Meet the admission requirements of the 911吃瓜 Faculty of Graduate Studies.
路 Prior research experience in petrology, mineralogy, or geochemistry is a strong asset.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates are encouraged to email Dr. Xinyue Xu directly at xinyuex@sfu.ca. Please attach your CV (including contact information for 2-3 references), unofficial transcripts, and a brief statement (1-page) explaining your research interests and why you are interested in our group. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an online interview.