To close out the academic year, we were pleased to host the final two seminars in our Water Seminar Series, featuring distinguished international speakers whose work spans cutting-edge topics in hydrology and environmental risk. Both events highlighted the growing global dimensions of water research and reinforced the value of building strong academic networks.
7th July — Dr. Roger Wainkwa Chia (Kangwon National University, South Korea)
Talk Title: Soil and Groundwater Microplastic Contamination: Focus on Abundance, Limitations in Methodologies, and Implications for Infant Health. Dr. Roger joined us all the way from South Korea for a full week of academic engagement and collaboration. His thought-provoking lecture addressed the critical and often overlooked issue of microplastic contamination in terrestrial and subsurface environments, with an emphasis on health impacts, particularly in infants. Beyond the seminar, Dr. Chia spent the week connecting with our research teams, laying the groundwork for future joint projects and international partnerships. His visit was a significant step toward strengthening our global research network.
10th July — Prof. Dan Parsons (Loughborough University)
Talk Title: Assessment of Evolving Flood Hazard and Risk: The Role of Channel Morphodynamics
Prof. Parsons delivered a compelling closing seminar for the academic year to a full and engaged audience. His talk explored how river channel changes influence flood hazards, offering both a conceptual and data-driven perspective on risk assessment. The seminar drew particular interest from those working in flood modelling, geomorphology, and policy, and provided a timely reminder of the importance of dynamic, systems-based approaches to hazard management in a changing climate.
We extend our sincere thanks to all our July speakers and attendees for their participation. These final events not only capped off a successful year of seminars but also energised ongoing discussions and future collaborations. We
look forward to resuming the Water Seminar Series in the next academic year with even more engaging sessions and new voices in water science.
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