Peter Chirico

Background

About Peter Chirico

I’m a geoscientist and research leader focused on the intersection of landform processes, geospatial technology, informal mining systems, and resource security. As Associate Science Center Director at the USGS Florence Bascom Geoscience Center, I help lead a team of ~50 scientists conducting research on geologic mapping and landscape evolution, while continuing my own work in geomorphological mapping of mineral deposits.Over the past 25+ years at USGS, my research has centered on the geography of small-scale and artisanal mining in conflict zones and complex emergencies. I’ve worked extensively with the U.S. Department of State, DoD, USAID, the UN, and the Kimberley Process to study how mineral resources fuel conflict and illicit economies. While my regional focus is Sub-Saharan Africa, I’ve led or participated in over 30 field expeditions across Africa, South America, the Middle East, Central America, and the Caribbean.In addition to publishing over 50 peer-reviewed technical reports and journal articles, I also served as the scientific and technical advisor to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs on conflict minerals. I thrive on visionary, cross-disciplinary collaboration that sparks new scientific directions. I approach problems in nonlinear ways, looking for patterns in complexity. I value clarity, curiosity, and strategic leadership that empowers scientists to innovate. I’m driven by the belief that science should serve society—and I’m excited by opportunities to shape strategy and build programs that do just that.