Grant Munatsi, Laboratory Informatics Consultant

Grant Munatsi is a Laboratory Informatics Consultant at Datamine, specialising in the implementation and optimisation of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) across the mining and metals industry. With more than 15 years of experience as a chemist and laboratory systems specialist, Grant bridges the gap between lab operations and digital transformation. His deep technical expertise, hands-on laboratory knowledge, and commitment to client success make him a trusted partner in streamlining workflows, ensuring compliance, and modernising labs across Africa and beyond.

Solwezi, North-Western Province, Zambia (Working remotely for Canada)

Personal & Career Background

1. What first sparked your interest in the mining industry?

My journey into mining started somewhat unexpectedly. After graduating from university, I received an unsolicited job interview invitation from one of Zambia’s largest mines. I later found out I’d been shortlisted because I was the top student in my stream, and at the time, the mining industry was actively looking for chemistry graduates.

That opportunity opened the door to a whole new world. What fascinated me most was how such a massive, complex operation could run so efficiently, like a well-oiled machine. From that point on, my curiosity only deepened. Over time, I’ve come to appreciate the full mining value chain, far beyond the lab. It’s been a continuous journey of learning and growth ever since.

2. Can you walk us through your career path and how you ended up at Datamine?

I started out as a management trainee at a major Zambian mine. Later, I moved into a commercial laboratory that managed on-site services, where I worked as a chemist and honed my lab skills in a more technical setting.

Eventually, I transitioned to a mine-owned site lab, which gave me valuable experience in leadership and admin. During this time, I developed a strong interest in technology. I naturally became the go-to person for anything tech-related, especially as LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) became a bigger part of the workflow. I quickly became a super user, the bridge between lab operations and tech.

That led to a pivotal moment when the team behind the LIMS solution I was using invited me to join them. I took the leap, and when Assaynet was later acquired by Datamine, I transitioned with the team. And here I am today, proud to say I work for what I truly believe is one of the best companies in the industry.

3. Was there a defining moment that confirmed mining was the right industry for you?

There wasn’t one single moment, it’s been a gradual, deeply affirming journey. What really makes it special for me is the people. I’ve met and worked with some of the brightest minds, many of whom have become like family. The connections I’ve built go beyond just the job, and that sense of belonging has made it clear that this is where I’m meant to be.

Your Role & Expertise

4. What is your area of expertise, and how do you use it in your role at Datamine?

My core expertise is in chemistry, especially within lab environments. At Datamine, I use that background to support users of our LIMS software, from implementation to ongoing technical support.

But my role goes well beyond just the software. I bring practical experience in lab operations, QA/QC processes, and good laboratory practices. That means our clients aren’t just getting a tool — they’re getting hands-on insights that help them run more efficient, accurate labs. I see my role as a bridge between the real-world challenges of the lab and the technology that’s designed to support it.

5. How would you explain your role to someone unfamiliar with the mining tech space?

In mining, million-dollar decisions are made based on lab results. I help labs produce the most accurate data possible by supporting the systems that make their work smoother, faster, and more reliable.

Put simply: lab teams focus on the science, and I make sure the tech supports them without getting in the way. I’ve invested years into learning these systems so that lab professionals don’t have to, they get the benefit without the burden.

6. What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I love working with users and helping them really understand how our systems work, not just how to click buttons, but the reasoning behind it all. Watching someone go from uncertain to confident in using our tools is incredibly rewarding. On top of that, I get to build meaningful connections with people from all over the world, and that’s something I truly cherish.

Challenges, Projects & Learnings

7. What has been the most challenging project or client engagement you’ve worked on?

In 2022, I was on-site in Eritrea for a LIMS implementation. It was already a challenging environment, a desert location with limited infrastructure. Then, I tested positive for COVID.

I had to quarantine while still on-site, which meant I had to implement the system remotely, even though I was physically at the client location but unable to enter the lab. My trip was extended by two weeks, and it tested everything, my patience, flexibility, and problem-solving skills. But I adapted, stayed focused, and got the project over the line successfully.

8. What’s a professional milestone or achievement you’re especially proud of?

One highlight was helping solve a long-standing reconciliation issue at a processing plant. There was a persistent gap between calculated production and actual recovered metal, a big concern. I identified that inconsistent sampling times were skewing the lab results.

I proposed a new system to accurately capture sample collection times, ensuring that lab data better reflected actual process conditions. That system was implemented and is still in use today, a simple idea with a long-lasting impact. That’s something I’m truly proud of.

9. What’s been your biggest learning curve while working in the mining industry?

For me, it was stepping into leadership and administrative responsibilities. It’s one thing to follow instructions, it’s another to be the one others turn to for answers. I had to learn a lot on the job, often through mentorship and by investing in resources like The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

Even now, I wouldn’t say I’ve mastered leadership, it’s something I believe we keep learning over a lifetime.

Perspectives & Reflections

10. How has the mining industry evolved since you started, and how have you adapted?

The transformation has been huge, especially when it comes to technology and sustainability. Mining labs now rely on automation and real-time data more than ever, and health, safety, and environmental responsibility are no longer optional, they’re essential.

I’ve adapted by staying open to new tools and ways of thinking. That curiosity and willingness to evolve are also why working at Datamine feels like such a natural fit.

11. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in this field?

Don’t just learn your job, learn the ecosystem around it. The more you understand about the broader mining value chain, the more effective and adaptable you’ll be.

Also, avoid relying on shortcuts or patronage for career growth. Focus on building real competence, and strive for both independence and interdependence, the ability to stand on your own, and also work well in a team. That’s where long-term success lies.

12. What keeps you motivated and passionate about your work?

I love that my work constantly presents new challenges, whether technical or people-related. But more than anything, seeing a happy client after we’ve solved a problem together is what keeps me coming back. That sense of satisfaction never gets old.

Fun & Forward-Looking

13. If you weren’t in mining, what career could you see yourself in?

I think I’d be a physiotherapist. It’s another role that involves helping people through hands-on, practical solutions, something I’ve always found fulfilling.

14. What’s one myth about mining you’d love to bust?

That mining and sustainability are incompatible. From the inside, I’ve seen how hard the industry is working to improve, especially in labs, where we’ve moved away from many hazardous methods and materials. Responsible mining isn’t a myth, it just requires discipline, transparency, and commitment.

15. What excites you most about the future of mining and technology?

The pace of innovation is incredible. We’re seeing AI, robotics, and advanced data platforms reshape the mining value chain, from exploration to production to reconciliation. These tools are making mining not only more efficient but also safer and more environmentally responsible. It’s an exciting time to be in the industry