A fond farewell to retiring faculty
Celebrating the distinguished careers of Water Institute faculty
The Water Institute bids a heartfelt farewell to 11 faculty members retiring in 2024. Their exceptional contributions to water research and education have shaped the lives of hundreds of students and strengthened the University of Waterloo’s reputation as a leader in water research.
These individuals have helped define the Water Institute and our academic community, leaving a legacy of innovation, mentorship, and impact.
Honoring Our Retiring Faculty
Pu Chen, Chemical Engineering
Professor Pu Chen’s research focused on nanotechnology applications in water treatment, biomedicine, and energy systems. His groundbreaking work advanced the design of membranes for water treatment and sustainable energy solutions.
Maurice Dusseault, Earth and Environmental Sciences
Professor Maurice Dusseault specialized in geomechanics and unconventional oil and gas resources. His research contributed to safer and more efficient extraction techniques, with applications in subsurface energy storage and environmental remediation.
Tony Endres, Earth and Environmental Sciences
Professor Anthony Endres devoted his career to studying groundwater systems through hydrogeophysical techniques, focusing on near-surface hydrological processes like soil moisture, evapotranspiration, freeze-thaw cycles, groundwater recharge, nutrient transport, freshwater ice, and seasonal snowpacks. His innovative modeling has enhanced critical water resource management.
Stephen Evans, Earth and Environmental Sciences
Professor Stephen Evans is a global expert in natural hazards, including landslides, glacial hazards, tsunamis, and anthropogenic risks like tailings and water retention dams. His research, spanning Europe, North Africa, Asia, and the Americas, delivers critical insights into hazard assessment, risk analysis, and impacts on water systems.
Peter Huck, Civil and Environmental Engineering
Professor Peter Huck is internationally recognized for his expertise in drinking water treatment, stemming from over 30 years as the NSERC Chairholder in Water Treatment. His pioneering work on advanced treatment technologies has shaped global policies and practices to ensure safe drinking water.
Craig Janes, Public Health Sciences
Professor Craig Janes examined how water, health, and sustainable development intersect, focusing on global health challenges tied to water security and social determinants of health. His influential research highlighted the impact of water access on public health, particularly among marginalized populations, shaping policies to improve water access and health outcomes worldwide.
Kevin Lamb, Applied Mathematics
Professor Kevin Lamb’s research analyzed nonlinear internal waves in oceans and lakes, focusing on their generation, propagation, and environmental impacts. Using theoretical models and numerical simulations, his work advances fluid dynamics, including wave breaking, mixing processes, and broader applications in stratified flow systems.
Sigrid Peldszus, Civil and Environmental Engineering
Professor Sigrid Peldszus focused on advancing drinking water treatment technologies, with an emphasis on removing organic micropollutants and disinfection by-products. Her research bridged the gap between fundamental studies and practical applications, contributing to improved water quality standards and treatment processes.
Kumaraswamy Ponnambalam, Systems Design Engineering
Professor Kumaraswamy Ponnambalam, officially retiring in Sept. 2025, specializes in systems analysis and optimization for water resource management. His research has enhanced decision-making processes for managing reservoirs and hydropower systems under uncertainty. He has contributed across disciplines, in engineering and intelligent systems.
Sherry Schiff, Earth and Environmental Sciences
Professor Sherry Schiff made significant contributions to biogeochemistry, focusing on nutrient cycling and water quality within lakes, streams, rivers, forests, and agricultural watersheds. Her research has informed management strategies for preserving lake and river health.
Larry Swatuk, Environment, Enterprise and Development
Professor Larry Swatuk focused on water governance and its critical role in international development, particularly in the Global South. His work emphasized the need for equitable water management practices and sustainable development strategies to address the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
We extend our warmest wishes to all our retiring faculty members. Thank you for your outstanding contributions to the Water Institute, the University of Waterloo, and the global water community. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement!