Postdoctoral Researcher — Environmental Engineering & Machine Learning
The NEWgenerator™ is an advanced non-sewered sanitation system featuring an anaerobic membrane bioreactor (AnMBR), nutrient capture, and electrochlorination. Our field testing in Durban, South Africa, proved its resilience and efficacy in resource recovery, turning high-strength wastewater into a source for non-potable reuse.
My research explores nitrogen and phosphorus recovery using modified clinoptilolite zeolite. By optimizing zeolite regeneration in the field, we transition wastewater treatment from a disposal problem to a circular economy solution, creating nutrient-rich fertilizers for local use.
Using Stella® Architect, I develop intricate models to optimize the water-energy-nutrient nexus within the NEWgenerator™. These scenario-based evaluations are critical for scaling decentralized sanitation systems across diverse global environments.
I leverage machine learning to develop soft sensors for real-time water quality assessment. By training models on in-line sensor data, we can predict complex parameters instantly, ensuring environmental compliance without the lag of traditional laboratory analysis.