Dr Unitt holds a BScHons in Geology from the University of Exeter (1990) and a PhD from the National University of Ireland (1997) entitled ‘The Structural and Metamorphic Evolution of the Lough Derg Complex, Counties Donegal and Fermanagh’. He has been a geological consultant for more than 30 years working on projects including engineering and construction, quarrying and mining, the environment and archaeology. Dr Unitt is a Research Fellow at the School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences, University College Cork. Richard's research specializes in petrography and mineralogy. Current projects include petrographic controls on road aggregate microtexture in relation to frictional properties and the durability of asphalt mixtures. Richard is also working on multiple projects using Raman spectroscopy. Dr Unitt is the Chairperson of the ’Copper Coast Geopark’ in County Waterford http://www.copper-coast.com/.

Ore Geology and Mineralogical ResearchThe development of genetic models for ‘Irish-Type’ ore deposits based upon a multidisciplinary approach including mineralogy, fluid chemistry and geochronology. Mineralogy and chronology of ‘Alpine-Type’ fissures to determine the late-stage evolution of the Variscan Orogeny in SW Munster.Fluid evolution and genesis of bedded copper ores in the Munster Basin. The relationship between petrology and the physical characteristics of rocks utilised in the quarrying industry. GeophysicsMultiple application of the electrical resistivity technique to understand the engineering properties of the subsurface.Measurement of the interaction at the salt-water/freshwater interface.The differentiation of pegmatites from their host rocks.