Our purpose

We accelerate the development of sustainable technologies to deliver the critical materials needed for the energy transition. By uniting academics, industry, governments and communities, we’re transforming how raw materials are discovered, used and recycled. 

Who we are

Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is a leading global mining group that focuses on finding, mining and processing the Earth's mineral resources.

Australian National University, Canberra

A leading institution advancing knowledge, shaping identity, and strengthening regional understanding.

University of British Columbia, Vancouver

Advancing discovery and innovation, UBC partners globally and leads in Mining Engineering to tackle pressing challenges.

University of California, Berkeley

Shaping the future of engineering, Berkeley drives groundbreaking research and innovation that transform industries and society.

University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

A leading African university, Wits advances research, innovation, and social impact across mining, science, and society.

Our history

Founded in 2024, the Centre marks Rio Tinto’s 150th anniversary with a $150 million investment over 10 years. 

Our first grand challenge is copper – essential for electrification but difficult to mine sustainably. We’re pioneering breakthrough extraction methods to meet soaring demand while reducing waste and environmental impact. 

Our vision subheading

Our vision

We aim to become a globally recognised hub for sustainable materials innovation – shaping policy, industry standards and future-ready supply chains through responsible, cross-sector collaboration.

Title

“The world is changing at an unprecedented pace. To meet the needs of the energy transition, we must urgently deliver more materials – faster, more sustainably, and more cost-effectively.” 
 
Dan Walker 
Chief Innovation Officer, Rio Tinto

“We were looking at academic institutions that had shared values… a commitment to coming together in a non-competitive way, which is often not how universities are set up to work.” 

Professor Mary Ryan 
Vice Provost for Research and Enterprise, Imperial College London