The University of Mississippi School of Engineering is delighted to announce Dr. Leonardo “Leo” Macelloni as the new Director of the Mississippi Mineral Resources Institute (MMRI). Macelloni comes from the University of Southern Mississippi, where he served as Associate Research Professor within the School of Ocean Science and Engineering and Associate Director of the Hydrographic Science Research Center.
(Submitted photo)
Macelloni earned both his MSc in Geology in 2001 and his PhD in Applied Geophysics in 2005 from La Sapienza University of Rome, Italy. His career includes contributions to deep-sea exploration, specializing in seabed and sub-seabed imaging. His projects have ranged widely, including the search for World War II wrecks in the Gulf of Mexico, assessments of deep-sea benthic communities affected by oil spills, and the development of new sensors for investigating critical seabed minerals. These initiatives have been supported by prominent organizations such as NOAA and BOEM, highlighting his pivotal role in advancing oceanic research.
Macelloni returns to Ole Miss after a previous tenure at MMRI from 2005 to 2012. “Serving the MMRI was one of the best times of my life,” he remarked. “I love Ole Miss and Oxford. I am so excited to be selected and get to come back home.” His return is marked by a commitment to enhancing the institute’s focus on cutting-edge research and technology, particularly in the exploration and sustainable use of mineral resources critical to modern technology, including green energy solutions.
His arrival coincides with a period of significant growth and interest in engineering disciplines among the new generation. Dr. Macelloni is eager to channel this momentum towards geosciences, a field he believes is ripe with exciting possibilities. “The energy that young people bring to our field is transformative,” he stated. “Harnessing this enthusiasm is crucial as we steer MMRI towards a new era of innovation and discovery.”
“The School of Engineering is pleased to welcome Dr. Macelloni back home. The combination of his past work with the MMRI and experience in various fields related to geological engineering and geophysics will be an asset to the institute,” Dean Viola L. Acoff remarked. “He will be joining a team of very dedicated and passionate researchers in the MMRI who are committed to advancing the institute’s mission. We are looking forward to Dr. Macelloni implementing his vision for the MMRI.”
The Mississippi Mineral Resources Institute, established in 1972, coordinates mineral-related research to guide responsible decisions about mineral resources and environmental health. It focuses on advancing research, facilitating technology transfer, and training future scientists and engineers. The MMRI supports these goals through research projects, educational programs, and partnerships with industry, government, and academia.
The University of Mississippi and the School of Engineering look forward to Dr. Macelloni’s contributions and leadership as they continue to advance research and education in engineering and geosciences.