From Molecular Processes to Water Management Practices: Translational Environmental Science

The Environmental Sciences: Water Gordon Research Seminar is a unique forum for early career scientists from all disciplines of environmental science to share their cutting edge work on human alterations of the aquatic environment.

Aquatic environments provide valuable ecosystem services and are increasingly threatened by human activities, especially in light of global climate change, population growth and urbanization. Furthermore, emerging technologies (e.g., new energy extraction techniques, changes in water treatment and use practices) continue to place unique and ever evolving burdens on natural water resources. The sustainable use of water resources critically requires fundamental scientific understanding of the natural processes underlying ecosystem function, the impact of human activities on those processes, and improvements in engineering practice to mitigate impacts on aquatic environments. Furthermore, close cooperation between researchers and managers will ensure the translation of current science and engineering research to real-world environmental impact. To that end, this meeting will highlight research bridging the gap between environmental science, engineering and management. From mechanistic studies of molecular processes to emerging management practices, we hope to showcase cutting-edge efforts to translate environmental science research to sustainable management of water resources.