Dr. Maya Kopylova

Biography

Maya Kopylova is a Professor at the University of British Columbia, specializing in the study of mineral exploration and the geochemistry and geology of the Earth's crust. She holds a Master's degree from Lomonosov Moscow State University and a Ph.D. from the Schmidt Institute of Physics of the Earth in Moscow. Kopylova's research focuses on the composition and thermal structure of the mantle underlying some of the oldest portions of the Earth, namely the cratons. She investigates depths of 200 km and utilizes xenoliths sampled from rare kimberlite magmas to derive information about the mantle at greater depths. In contrast to the well-explored kimberlitic provinces, little is known about the Slave craton's stratigraphy and thermal state. With a strong focus on diamond exploration, her work has provided unique opportunities for scientists to study the deep mantle beneath northern Canada. Kopylova is particularly interested in the petrology and volcanology of kimberlites, the characterization of diamonds and their mineral inclusions, and the petrology of mantle xenoliths. Her extensive research experience includes a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Cape Town and visiting researcher positions at various international institutes. She encapsulates her work within the Diamond Exploration Laboratory, ensuring current research projects are made accessible to interested colleagues and students.

Research Interests

Experience