Research

1. The Design of Robust, Reliable Water/Soil Sensors

Our group designs smart water and soil quality sensors, converting continuous data streams into early warnings and operational insights. We specialize in long-term, low-drift electrochemical sensors for nutrients (e.g., NO3–/NH4+), metals (e.g., Pb2+, Li+), rare earth elements (REEs), and general parameters (pH, EC, ORP, temperature, soil moisture). To achieve month-long deployments, we pair robust chemistries with anti-fouling interfaces (e.g., MXene- and zwitterionic-based coatings) and in-situ calibration/correction strategies. We maintain the full stack, from sensor electrode design to hardware, data pipelines, and real-time dashboards, so collaborators can easily integrate sensors into their processes and obtain actionable metrics (e.g., concentrations of NH4+ in mg/L) rather than raw sensor signals (e.g., voltage).

2. Advancing Decentralized Water Systems 

We advance decentralized water systems that couple wastewater treatment with resource recovery. We integrate anaerobic digestion, microbial electrochemical systems, and membrane processes with sensor-in-the-loop control to recover carbon/energy (biogas), nitrogen, and critical metals, while producing reclaimed water for non-potable reuse and controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) such as hydroponics and vertical farming units. Our purpose is to demonstrate a measurable “waste-to-value” pathway that reduces loads to infrastructure, creates local fertilizer/energy streams, and supports resilient WEIHN (Water-Energy-Infrastructure-Human Network).

3. Digital Water-Energy-Food Infrastructure

In an increasingly interconnected world, the nexus of water, energy, and food systems presents both challenges and opportunities. Our research leverages data-driven approaches such as machine learning to revolutionize digital infrastructure across these critical sectors. By employing advanced computational techniques, we design innovative sensors for more effective monitoring. The data collected from these smart sensors enable us to optimize water treatment processes, enhance agriculture assessments, and drive material innovations. Through intelligent analysis and integration of sensor data, we aim to improve sustainability and efficiency within water, energy, and food systems, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and secure future.