Climate busting bug researcher receives award
10 May 2019
Management of human waste and its impacts on the
environment is a critical international issue, and a young South
Australian from
SA Water has just been awarded a PhD scholarship to
continue this leading research.
Sarah Aucote will progress a PhD with SA Water and the
University of
Queensland, investigating ways to improve the operation of
wastewater
sludge-drying lagoons by reducing their methane
emissions.
The talented young scientist says promoting the activity of natural
microorganisms that consume methane may reduce emissions and help
contribute to climate change mitigation efforts.
“Sludge-drying lagoons are commonly used around the world to treat
wastewater sludge and form biosolids for agricultural application such
as fertiliser, but they’ve recently been shown to contribute to the
carbon footprint of
wastewater treatment plants,” said Sarah.
“As a young researcher, it’s incredibly satisfying to work on such a
fantastic project that I believe will be beneficial not only to SA
Water, but to other water utilities around the world.”
Sarah received the prestigious
Water Research Australia (WaterRA) Nancy Millis Memorial PhD
Scholarship at the industry association’s annual international Research
and Innovation Gala Dinner, which provides a combined $25,000 in project
funding and travel support.
The award is given in memory of the late Emeritus Professor Nancy Millis
AC MBE, who was a pioneer for women in science in Australia, and
recognises students who have demonstrated exceptional qualities and a
passion for research.
“The experience and insight I will gain, along with the motivation of
achieving this award, will help me to develop as a researcher and make a
positive contribution to the water industry,” said Sarah.
“I’m extremely thankful to WaterRA for the award, and appreciative of
the opportunities my supervisors have provided me throughout the project
– the continual guidance and support they have offered has been integral
to my development.”
Sarah’s passion for research has seen her flourish at SA Water, and her
recent achievement builds on the 2018 Australian Water Awards National
Student Water Prize she received for her Honours project through
Flinders University, where she graduated top of her cohort.
She is supervised by SA Water Lead Scientist Environment and Wastewater
Dr Ben van den Akker, alongside Professor Zhiguo Yuan AM and Dr Shihu Hu
of the Advanced Water Management Centre at the University of Queensland.
“Her desire and commitment to helping improve the
water industry through
research is second to none, and we’re so proud her efforts and qualities
have been reconginsed through this terrific accolade,” Ben said.
“The win was a significant achievement and reflects her individual
brilliance and initiative, and it will further inspire her to keep
contributing to the betterment of the water industry.”
--ENDS--
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