Chen Zhu, Professor of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Indiana University Bloomington, has been appointed Co‑Editor‑in‑Chief of Applied Geochemistry, the flagship journal of the International Association of Geochemistry. His three‑year term begins this summer, alongside fellow Co‑Editor‑in‑Chief Elisa Sacchi of the University of Pavia in Italy. Together, they will guide the journal’s editorial direction and oversee its board.
Zhu is internationally recognized as a geochemist, mineralogist, and hydrogeologist. His research focuses on mineral‑water interactions, the chemistry of natural processes, critical minerals and water supplies, and carbon dioxide removal methods. He stated that the journal’s mission is to publish rigorous, use‑inspired research that addresses societal needs. He noted that, despite challenges in scholarly publishing, he is committed to serving the geochemical community and supporting early‑career scientists. He emphasized the journal’s role in connecting basic science with practical challenges in today’s shifting research and funding landscape.
Founded in 1986, Applied Geochemistry publishes research addressing real‑world problems in water, energy, mineral resources, climate, and public health. Its papers have influenced scientific practice, guided environmental cleanup, and informed public policy.
Zhu brings extensive editorial experience, having served as Co‑Executive Editor of Groundwater, associate editor of Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta for 16 years, and board member of Chemical Geology and the Journal of Contaminant Hydrology.
In his new role, Zhu plans to strengthen the journal’s focus on applied research, emphasizing work that shapes policy, supports resource exploration, and guides environmental remediation. He also aims to expand coverage in emerging areas such as critical minerals, carbon capture and storage, machine learning in geochemistry, and renewable energy. Future special issues may align with sessions at major conferences, with early‑career researchers invited as guest editors.
Additional initiatives include launching a fast‑track section for short, high‑impact papers, publishing more review and perspective articles, and supporting workshops to train early‑career researchers in peer review and publishing standards.
Indiana University’s tradition of international leadership in geochemistry is reflected in Zhu’s collaborations and invited talks across more than a dozen countries, reinforcing the journal’s global reach.
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