A West Virginia University mining engineering professor has been awarded the Stefanko Best Paper Award by the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration.

Aaron Noble, an assistant professor in the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources, was recognized for his paper “Micro-Price Optimization of Coal Processing Operations.”

The award, which was established in 1983, recognizes authors who present papers during the Coal and Energy Division technical sessions at SME annual meetings. The award recognizes authors for their contributions to the body of knowledge. Noble’s paper describes a novel approach to coal supply chain optimization, and provides coal operators with practical strategies to improve day-to-day operations.

“I am very grateful to be selected for this prestigious award,” Noble said. “When I look at the list of prior recipients, I see several legends in our field. I am honored to be recognized in that class.”

The award, which includes a $1,000 prize, will be presented during the SME Annual Conference and Exhibit in Denver in February 2015.

Noble received his bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in mining engineering from Virginia Tech. His research focuses on the analysis of mineral processing systems and particulate separation technologies. He holds two patents for energy efficient equipment designs. In addition to his membership in SME, Noble is a member of the American Society of Engineering Education.

-WVU-

mcd/11/0714

CONTACT: Mary C. Dillon, Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources
304.293.4086; Mary.Dillon@mail.wvu.edu

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