UKWIR is on the lookout for Expressions of Interest for Strategic Research Projects!

The UK Water Industry Research (UKWIR) program is reaching out to expert partners to join forces in shaping the future of the water industry through collaborative research. These projects are all about generating vital evidence, insights, knowledge, and practical recommendations to tackle a variety of emerging challenges and opportunities throughout the entire water cycle.

As a not-for-profit organization, UKWIR commissions and manages a coordinated portfolio of research projects aimed at delivering real value for water companies across the UK and Ireland. Their work is recognized internationally for driving improvements in operational efficiency, sustainability, effectiveness, and resilience within the sector.

The current research opportunities are designed to address some of the most urgent issues the industry is facing today. This includes protecting public health through better river monitoring and improved coliform detection; ensuring a reliable water supply by tackling changes in source water and the effects of emerging contaminants like PFAS; boosting infrastructure performance with smarter leakage management and mains renewal strategies; and promoting environmental sustainability through nature-based solutions.

Mike Rose, Chief Executive of UKWIR, shared his thoughts:

“These projects are crucial for helping the water industry adopt modern analytical methods and navigate the complexities of a changing climate. By collaborating with a diverse and innovative range of expert partners, UKWIR is dedicated to delivering impactful research that aligns with our members’ strategic priorities—enhancing water quality, safeguarding public health, and improving environmental outcomes. “We’re excited to connect with collaborators who can bring fresh perspectives, add value, and develop practical solutions that drive sector-wide transformation and long-term benefits for customers and the environment.”

UKWIR collaborates with universities, industry specialists, research organizations, and regulatory bodies to spark innovation and produce cutting-edge research that drives the progress of the sector.

Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are now open and will be accepted until midnight on Friday, April 11, for the following research projects:

• Better health protection measures for rivers
• Redefining coliforms
• Calculating the whole life cost and value of mains renewal methodologies
• Understanding the factors behind district metered area (DMA) leakage
• Risk assessment of trade effluent and tankered waste impact on biosolids
• Potential environmental and health effects of PFAS in biosolids
• Improving demand forecasting methodologies
• Potential implications of the recast Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive
• Real-time interpretation of Event Duration Monitoring (EDM) data
• Microplastics: high-volume sampling and analysis methods for wastewater and biosolids
• Effective treatment approaches for dilute sewage
• Biological removal of taste and odour compounds

These research initiatives are essential for meeting regulatory standards and preparing water companies for the changing challenges of source water.

For complete project details or to submit your expression of interest, please visit: ukwir.org