Monthly Mind - Dr. Christopher Spencer

I am an Associate Professor in the Department of Geological Sciences and Geological Engineering at Queen’s University, where I also serve as Co-Director of the Queen’s Facility for Isotope Research (QFIR). My research focuses on the formation and evolution of Earth’s continental crust, and I use geochemistry, petrology, and isotope geochronology to better understand the processes that shape our planet. 

At QFIR, I help direct one of the most comprehensive university-based geochemical facilities in Canada. What makes QFIR distinctive is its dual mission: advancing fundamental academic research while providing high-quality geochemical analyses to meet industry needs. We work closely with mining and mineral exploration companies, government surveys, and academic researchers to bridge the gap between discovery-driven science and applied problem-solving. This unique position allows us to contribute to major questions in Earth sciences—such as the secular evolution of the crust and the cycling of volatiles—while simultaneously supporting practical applications like mineral exploration, resource assessment, and environmental monitoring. 

My own career path has been shaped by a mix of academic and applied experiences. I began my studies at Brigham Young University, completed my PhD at the University of St Andrews in Scotland, and carried out postdoctoral training at the British Geological Survey. Each step gave me exposure to both cutting-edge research and applied geoscience, reinforcing the importance of maintaining strong connections between academia and industry. Since joining Queen’s, I have worked to continue that balance, ensuring our students and collaborators benefit from both rigorous fundamental science and direct engagement with societal and economic challenges. 

For me, science is most impactful when it reaches across boundaries, whether disciplinary, institutional, or international. The work we do at QFIR reflects that principle, and I hope to encourage students and early-career scientists to see value in careers that span traditional academic and industry divides.