Prof. Banu Örmeci appointed Interim Chair of the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering

Professor Banu Örmeci has been appointed Interim Chair of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering for a one-year appointment which commenced on July 1^st, 2023. She is the first woman to hold the position of Chair in the department. In addition to interim chair, Örmeci is currently serving as the Director of the Global Water Institute and is the Jarislowsky Chair in Water and Health.  

Since transitioning to Carleton from Duke University (USA) in 2005, Örmeci has successfully created a pioneering and globally recognized research program centered around water. Through her research group’s efforts, significant contributions have been made in advancing science, technology, and practical applications in the water sector. When she joined the department, there were no female faculty members.

Since joining Carleton, she has been heavily involved in service to the department, faculty, and university. In addition to her many commitments, she has served as a member for the Carleton Senate and Board of Governors. She has learned the operations of the university on both the academic and administrative sides enabling her the knowledge and skillset to take on this role. Her experience and research not only involve her in laboratories, teaching spaces, and serving in leadership roles, but it transcends into field work across the globe.

Örmeci’s primary research focuses on wastewater and biosolids treatment, encompassing the elimination of pathogens and chemical contaminants, as well as the development of novel, sustainable, and cost-effective treatment technologies. Furthermore, she aims to enhance treatment processes at treatment plants and holds several patents on process optimization.

The core objective of Dr. Örmeci’s research directly aligns with safeguarding public health and the environment. She is leading various research initiatives to address issues of water safety, security and challenges found within Canada and abroad. Her recent research projects focus on wastewater surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 and respiratory viruses and microplastic pollution in water environments.

Her research has made a direct impact and difference for various communities abroad. She has previously worked with impoverished communities in developing countries and helped with their safe drinking water and sanitation needs. Aside from her commitments to the University and research ventures, Örmeci works diligently for the greater good of the community.

Örmeci plays a significant role in water organizations in Canada and internationally. She strives to make a positive impact on a global scale. She serves on the Strategic Council of the International Water Association (IWA), and with the IWA Fellow. IWA Fellows are globally recognized water professionals for their outstanding contributions to the national and regional water sector. She is also the Canadian Focal Point for the Inter-American Network of Academies of Science (IANAS) Water Program. You can read more about Dr. Örmeci’s research and initiatives here.   

Örmeci is passionate about outreach and service to the community. She organizes outreach events that aim to promote and encourage the participation of underrepresented groups in science and engineering fields and has served as the president, a board member of the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) – Ottawa Chapter.  She received over 25 prestigious research, teaching, outreach, mentoring awards and has published over 200 journal and conference papers.

Dr. Örmeci looks forward to working with everyone, particularly undergraduate and graduate students. Moreover, she hopes to support junior faculty members launch their research programs.