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Early career X-factor

Tracey Laight (left) with James Dendle, Paul Maliphant and Jenny Moss (right).

Could the two existing Early Careers Challenge Trophy awards attract one more (at least) and so become the regional heats of a national final?


Geoscientist 21.1 February 2011


Paul Maliphant (Southern Wales) writes: Thames Valley and then Southern Wales regional groups have pioneered competitions that challenge their early-career members to showcase their knowledge and expertise in competing for trophies named for their groups founders. It is therefore a curious coincidence that both groups were founded by geologists born in Trinidad - giving us the Richard Fox Shield and – the Paul Maliphant Trophy!

In 2010, the Southern Wales event attracted eight entries, shortlisted three for the final presentation evening:
  • James Dendle (Resource Geologist, SRK Consulting (UK) Ltd) – Tonkolili Iron Ore Project, Sierra Leone;
  • Tracey Laight (Resource Geologist, SRK Consulting (UK) Ltd) – The Marenica Uranium Deposit, Namibia;
  • Jenny Moss (Seismic Interpretation PhD Researcher, University of Cardiff) – Sub-seabed hydrocarbon fluid escape: an example of natural fluid blow-out from a reservoir, offshore Namibia.

Congratulations to Tracey, who was the deserving winner (picture), but also James and Jenny, her worthy opponents.

We are now seeking at least a third regional group to set up its own Early Careers competition. Then, winners could converge on Burlington House for a Regional Groups Early Careers Challenge Trophy - for which some sponsorship has already been secured!
  • The inaugural event is pencilled in for spring 2012; so any other regional group wishing to join in should contact Paul Maliphant ([email protected]).