James Cook University is joining forces with ECR Minerals to further explore the potential for rare earth elements within the company’s Lolworth project area, about 120km west of Charters Towers.

The Trailblazer Steering Committee has approved funding for the project, which will see JCU recruit post-doctoral researchers and PhD students to form a dedicated team, according to ECR.

This team will focus on analysing and interpreting the mineral data from the Lolworth project area to enhance the understanding of its REE potential.

“We are thrilled to see further validation of our projects in Queensland, in particular the Lolworth project, through this exciting collaboration with James Cook University,”ECR Minerals managing director Mike Whitlow said.

“This partnership, which is fully funded by JCU, not only underscores the growing interest in the Lolworth project region, but also expands our technical understanding of a fast-emerging area of interest.

Related: GSQ scopes critical minerals potential at Lolworth

“Combined with our existing collaboration with the Geological Survey of Queensland, this initiative places ECR in a stronger position to potentially unlock the Lolworth project’s REE potential and create significant shareholder value.”

ECR said that while the company was pleased to support JCU in this important research initiative, the pace of its broader technical development across the wider Lolworth project area would continue to be driven by its own technical team and exploration priorities.

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