Marine Minerals Webinar Series 2026

Session 2

Contact person

Bhargav Boddupalli

Research Scientist

Session 2: Seafloor Massive Sulphides: From Geological Discovery to Responsible Management

Seafloor massive sulphide (SMS) deposits represent one of the most promising yet complex frontiers in marine mineral exploration. In this session, we will explore SMS—from the geological processes that form these deposits to the innovative methods required to extract them, and finally, to the strategies necessary for environmental impact and management.

See the recording of the webinar:

Featured speakers

Prof. Dr. Bramley J. Murton is Professor of Marine Geology at the National Oceanography Centre, Southampton, where he leads the UK’s research into deep-sea mineral resources. Bramley has over 30 years of experience in seafloor processes and mineral assessment. He is a recipient of the Geological Society’s 2019 Coke Medal. Bramley has authored key technical reports for the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and serves as a policy advisor to the UK government on seabed mining. He has served as chief scientist for numerous national and international programmes, including Blue Mining, MarineE-Tech, Project ULTRA, and TRIDENT.

Dr. Sabine Gollner is a deep-sea benthic ecologist at the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ). Her research focuses on the diversity and resilience of hydrothermal vent fauna and ecosystem restoration following deep-sea mining. An experienced expedition leader, she bridges ecology and law to address challenges in ocean health. Sabine serves as a scientific advisor to the Netherlands delegation at the International Seabed Authority, co-leads the Minerals Working Group of the Deep Ocean Stewardship Initiative, and is a member of the Netherlands Ocean Decade Committee.