Nicholas Vafeas
“Exploration Geologist & Critical Raw Materials Specialist Supporting responsible resource development from discovery to circularity.”
What I bring
I work at the intersection of exploration geology and critical raw materials strategy, helping organisations navigate both technical and sustainability challenges across the raw‑materials lifecycle.
With over a decade of global experience in exploration, research, policy advisory and the non‑profit sector, I bridge geology, energy transition and governance to turn complex resource data into clear, actionable insight.
Expertise
Exploration & Field Geology
Energy Transition & Sustainability Policy
Critical Minerals, Battery Metals & Circular Economy Strategy
Research, Data Analysis & Stakeholder Engagement
Background & Qualifications
Professional Experience
Scientific Project Officer - Research Ireland
Exploration Geologist - iCRAG - Research Centre for Applied Geosciences
Senior Policy Researcher - Oireachtas Library and Research Service
Policy Lead - Geothermal Association of Ireland (NGO)
Exploration Geologist - Eramet South Africa
Education
PhD, Geology (University of Johannesburg)
MSc, Geology (University of Johannesburg)
BSc, Geology and Environmental Science (University of Johannesburg)
Postgraduate Diploma, Public Science Communication (University College Dublin)
Advanced Certificate, Project Management (University College Dublin)
Who I Work With
