DPhil Student
University of Oxford
Konstantin Nazarov is a DPhil researcher in Earth Sciences at the University of Oxford, specialising in the economic potential of saline geofluids and innovative approaches to critical mineral extraction. His work integrates geochemistry, engineering, and economic modelling to assess how oilfield brines can serve as commercially attractive sources of strategic elements. He collaborates closely with industry partners and funding bodies, translating complex scientific insights into practical pathways for technology deployment.
Konstantin previously served as Senior Advisor to a mining-focused VC fund, representing organisational interests at ministerial and vice-presidential levels across Central Asia and the Middle East. In this role he negotiated exploration frameworks, engaged in government relations, and communicated high-level technical and economic concepts to decision-makers.
He holds a First-Class BSc in Geology from the University of St Andrews, where he received multiple academic and fieldwork awards and developed a novel economic algorithm identifying multi-billion-dollar value in co-exploration potential. His experience spans international field campaigns, interdisciplinary project management, and published research in Precambrian geoscience.
Fluent in English and Russian, Konstantin brings a cross-disciplinary perspective that connects scientific innovation, economic strategy, and policy relevance within the evolving landscape of critical mineral supply.
From Waste to Wealth: Transforming Brines into Strategic Mineral Resources
Central Asia stands at a pivotal moment as global demand for critical minerals accelerates. This session explores a transformative opportunity: unlocking strategic elements directly from the region’s vast hydrocarbon and geothermal resources. Emerging technologies—developed and validated at the University of Oxford—demonstrate that oilfield brines, long treated as waste, can become high-value sources of lithium, bromine, gallium, and rare earth elements. These advances offer revenue streams that can surpass traditional hard-rock mining while using existing oil and gas infrastructure to minimise environmental impact and capital expenditure.
The session brings together researchers, innovators, and industry leaders to showcase real-world pilot projects, active technology transfer partnerships, and pathways for scalable deployment across Central Asia. Our goal is to demonstrate how the region can position itself as a global leader in sustainable critical mineral supply, supporting the energy transition and driving a new era of economic growth.