Water@UNSW 2026
11 September 2026 | Michael Crouch Innovation Centre
Present your water research at UNSW
The Water@UNSW Symposium brings together researchers from across the University to showcase the breadth of freshwater and saltwater research at UNSW.
The symposium provides an opportunity to share research, connect with colleagues from different faculties and disciplines, and strengthen the University's interdisciplinary water research network.
Presentations will span science, engineering, technology, policy, and the social and environmental dimensions of water, highlighting the diverse expertise across UNSW.
Together, these perspectives contribute to advancing the sustainable use and management of water resources and protecting aquatic and atmospheric environments.
By fostering connections across faculties, the Water@UNSW Symposium aims to encourage new collaborations, promote knowledge exchange, and support a more integrated approach to addressing complex water challenges.
The symposium is free to attend for all members of the UNSW community, with catering provided. A 'Best Presentation Travel Award' will also be presented to the most outstanding talk, supporting the recipient to attend and present their research at a national or international conference.
Program
The Water@UNSW 2026 Program is split into four sessions:
- Predicting Change
- Water in Motion
- Treating Water
- From Evidence to Action
A draft of the program is now available, but may be subject to change.
Keynote speakers
Dr Chanelle Webster is a marine ecologist whose research focuses on understanding and restoring coastal ecosystems. After completing her PhD on how seagrasses respond to environmental change, she joined UNSW, where her research focuses on restoring Sydney's lost kelp forests. Her work combines experimental ecology, restoration science, and communication to support healthier marine environments. Chanelle is passionate about collaborating across disciplines with scientists, students, Traditional Owners, industry, and local communities to tackle complex environmental challenges
Dr Rafael Paulino is an engineer at Arup, working within the Integrated Water Management team on projects spanning catchment modelling, geomorphology, infrastructure planning, and strategic water and wastewater services. He holds a Master’s degree from UBC (Canada) and a PhD from UNSW. His research background covers water quality, water treatment, and remote sensing.
Registration
Registration for the Water@UNSW will open soon.
Registration is free but capacity is limited, so please register early to secure your place.
Contact organisers
Water@UNSW 2026 is being jointly organised by Thais N. Guerrero and Dr Claudia Santori.
If you have any questions about the event, please email Thais and she will respond as soon as possible.