What we do

Research

Our work addresses water-related ecological, economic and human health issues in the Great Lakes region that apply broadly to other urban areas. Multidisciplinary projects examine water use and management, biological effects, technological innovation and policy. Research products include new technology and processes, shared data sources and other tools for maintaining healthy and sustainable urban waters. Field Stations located along Lake St. Clair, the Detroit River and municipal water treatment facilities provide ongoing access to essential resources for investigation and learning. A list of research projects and publications can be found in the Research Gallery ->

Education

Through multidisciplinary courses at Wayne State University, K-12 outreach, internships, and public engagement, we connect people to urban water resources and energize them to engage in water-related projects. By connecting science, knowledge and understanding of the threats and opportunities in urban and regional waters, we help people develop shared solutions to the challenges facing the Great Lakes. Our team members in the College of Education and College of Liberal Arts and Sciences create research-based integrated education solutions to advance public understanding of urban waters.

Technology

As part of our research, we innovate and develop technology to improve natural and engineered processes that affect or are affected by water. Our projects relating to energy distribution, water utility operation, commercial shipping, food production and water quality monitoring have all resulted in technology innovations that are being implemented in the broader community. A list of research projects resulting in technology transfer can be found in the Research Gallery.

Events

We work closely with the Office of the Vice-President for Research to sponsor and help coordinate the Water@Wayne seminar series as well as various university and community initiatives related to water research and water-related activities. You can find our events on our events page.

Service

Projects that engage the public, policy-makers and industry in science-based solutions to complex water-related problems are a central part of our work. We are engaged with an active network of researchers, educators and practitioners who collaboratively engage in stewardship of Great Lakes water resources.