Current Research

My research uses inverse geochemical methods to reconstruct the original composition of kimberlite melt from chemical measurements and petrographic observations. The method uses the starting bulk rock composition, measured mineral chemistry, and observed textural relationships between primary magmatic minerals to create an over-determined system of mass-balance equations and non-linear thermodynamic constraints. My estimates of melt composition will allow for the determination of physical properties that are crucial in numerical models of kimberlite eruption dynamics and melting processes in the deep mantle.

Education

2006-Present Master of Science, Earth and Ocean Sciences, University of British Columbia. Supervisor: Prof. Kelly Russell. Thesis title: ‘Reconstructing Primitive Kimberlite Melt’.

2001-2005 Bachelor of Science (Hons), Earth Sciences, Carleton University. Supervisor: Dr. Robert Berman. Thesis title: ‘Testing and Recalibration Recommendations for the Garnet-Biotite-Plagioclase-Quartz (GBIPS) Barometer'.

Short Courses

Kimberlite Basics, 2007. Scott-Smith Petrology Inc., North Vancouver. Instructor Barbara Scott-Smith.

Theriak-Domino Short Course, 2008. University of Calgary., Calgary. Instructor Christian de Capitani.

List of contributions to research and development

Oral Presentations

Brett RC, Russell JK, Moss SW, (2007). Origins of Olivine in Kimberlite: Phenocryst or Imposter? Yellowknife Geoscience Forum. Yellowknife, Northwest Territories.

Brett RC, Russell, JK (2007). Application of Image analysis to the Origins of Olivine in Kimberlite. Image Analysis in Kimberlites: Discourse on techniques, potential and problems. Vancouver, British Columbia.

Poster Presentations

Brett RC, Moss SW, Russell JK (2007). Magmatic Variability at the Diavik Diamond. Mine Mineral Exploration Roundup. Vancouver, British Columbia.

Moss SW, Brett RC, Russell JK (2008). Pyroclasts from Kimberlite Eruptions at Diavik: Products of phase-separation during ascent and eruption. Mine Mineral Exploration Roundup. Vancouver, British Columbia.

List of scholarships and awards

2001 Carleton University Academic Award $1000
2001 W.H. Collins Memorial Scholarship $2500
2004 Dr. Iain Ogle Memorial Scholarship $1200
2007 Colin D Spence Memorial Scholarship in Geology $6500