The Thermal Technologies and Analytical Laboratory, led by Gangadhar Andaluri, PhD and Md Saiful Islam, recently received the 2025 Innovation and Collaboration Award – Research from the WRA (Water Resources Association of the Delaware River Basin). 

A press release from the WRA shares that Andaluri, an assistant professor in the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, and Islam, a PhD candidate, accepted the award on behalf of the lab for their work to “address the challenge of removing emerging contaminants of concern from water and wastewater through novel and sustainable treatment innovations in partnership with the Valley Forge Sewer Authority.” 

Their collaborator, C. Eric Stoltz with the Valley Forge Sewer Authority, received the Innovation and Collaboration Award – Government Agency for their combined work. 

On receiving the award, Andaluri and Islam stated, “We are honored to receive the 2025 Innovation and Collaboration – Research Award from the WRA. This recognition reflects the power of partnership and shared commitment to protecting the health of the Delaware River basin. Working alongside Eric Stoltz and the Valley Forge Sewer Authority has been a true example of how science, policy, and practical solutions can come together to make a lasting impact on our communities and waterways.” 

The Thermal Technologies and Analytical Laboratory is currently conducting research on emerging contaminants in water and wastewater systems, including PFAS (forever chemicals), microplastics and antibiotics in addition to treatment methods for the removal of these contaminants. 

With many ongoing projects, they will continue their research in the Delaware River Basin and other local waterways as they strive to make a positive impact in the field. 

Full press release from the WRA here: https://www.wradrb.org/wra-announces-2025-innovation-collaboration-award-recipients/