Water researchers gather at McKelvey Engineering for Membrane Technology Conference
More than 200 researchers from around the world came to WashU to share the latest in membrane technologies for water and wastewater treatment
The McKelvey School of Engineering hosted more than 200 researchers and scholars for the International Water Association’s 10th Membrane Technology Conference & Exhibition for Water and Wastewater Treatment and Reuse, held July 23-26. This was the first time the conference has been held in the United States.
Zhen (Jason) He, the Laura and William Jens Professor of Energy, Environmental & Chemical Engineering who researches advanced technologies to recover valuable resources from wastewater, served as co-chair of the conference’s organizing committee.
“This conference aims to be a platform for scientists and professionals in the membrane section of water research and industry to share the latest findings and exchange thoughts on how to advance membrane technologies for water and wastewater treatment,” He said. “I’m also glad we got to take advantage of this opportunity to show off our beautiful campus and our engineering programs.”
The conference was postponed twice due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and He estimates that resulting visa complications may have prevented some international researchers from attending. Nevertheless, He said he’s proud of the work the organizing committee has done.
“Now that the conference is over, I feel accomplished,” He said. “Our team achieved our goal of hosting a successful conference. I’ve heard a lot of praise from the attendees.”
The next Membrane Technology Conference will be held 2025 in Daegu, Korea.