Breaking boundaries in water research

New research by Fridah Silas, a PhD student in the School of Environment, Resources and Sustainability and Collaborative Water Program student working with Dr. Dustin Garrick is exploring how farmers and actors across food, water, and energy sectors can work with nature, and with each other, to support more sustainable agriculture in Ontario.

On March 20, the Water Institute brought together researchers, students and industry leaders to mark World Water Day 2026, highlighting the United Nations global theme of Water and Gender. The event explored water inequality, infrastructure challenges and shared responsibility, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary research and collaboration in addressing complex water challenges and ensuring safe, reliable water for all.

Waterloo graduate student Thiruni Thirimanne a PhD candidate in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, has been awarded the Water Institute’s 2026 John Parish Memorial Graduate Scholarship, recognizing excellence in research on river systems and fluvial geomorphology.