Hadi is a PhD candidate (part-time) developing methodology for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens in wastewater and utilization of biomarkers in wastewater-based surveillance. He utilizes techniques in molecular biology including RT-qPCR, digital PCR to determine disease prevalence within a community using wastewater samples and relates this with clinical metrics. During the pandemic he was actively involved in the wastewater surveillance research community, including the Ontario Wastewater Surveillance Initiative program.
Water Quality and Aquatic Ecosystem Technician – Global Water Futures Program
Hadi supported the GWF program as a water quality and aquatic ecosystem technician. Hadi has used his considerable experience on environmental assessments and biomonitoring techniques to aid researchers in fish and macroinvertebrate community and population assessments. These include the impacts of municipal wastewater on the watershed. He has also aided in the application of environmental DNA (eDNA) research initiatives, including the comparison with more conventional methods (i.e. electrofishing).
Senior Manager – Waterloo Genomics Surveillance Centre (September 2023 – Currently)
Hadi is currently the senior manager of the Waterloo Genomics Surveillance Centre. The centre provides genomic sequencing and analytical services in support of surveillance and research activities. Hadi provides research support to members of the University of Waterloo, other universities and industries. Hadi also provides support of the strategic direction of the centre. Hadi is also responsible for the facility operations and the implementation of new systems and processes.
