#WorldWaterDay research profile: Hadeel Abed & Anjali Krishna tackle algal blooms

In celebration of World Water Day, we interviewed Young Professionals in the forWater Network  to find out more about their research.

Hadeel Abed and Anjali Krishna, Department of Biology, University of Waterloo 

What are you currently researching? 
We research the impact of harmful algal blooms in watersheds across Canada. These blooms can impact drinking water quality through the production and release of toxins into our water sources. We specifically focus on microbial community analysis to profile cyanobacterial species present in these watersheds to better understand what is present, and what dangers they may pose. 

Why is your research important to water security or safety in Canada? 
Having clean and safe drinking water is non-negotiable and the toxins being released by some cyanobacteria have the potential to bypass our water treatment methods, threatening to endanger anyone in contact with infected water. By understanding what threats are present, as well as the quantity present, we can take preventative measures to avoid toxic blooms. We can also learn new techniques and technologies to better detect toxins and thereby improve overall water quality.  

What is your favourite thing about water?
Water is everywhere and yet we know so little about what is in the water around us. There is always more to discover, and it is a very refreshing and humbling experience to research topics that are constantly shifting. In addition, water is being affected by climate change and anthropogenic factors, so there is so much to discover and understand with regards to ensuring safe drinking water in the future. Not to mention, water is a necessity for life and so it is critical that we have good quality drinking water!

For more information about Anjali's research, contact her at a56krishna@uwaterloo.ca, for Hadeel's research contact h2abed@uwaterloo.ca