Our Story
The Water, Public Health and Environmental Engineering Research Group (WPE) was established in 2003 to address the growing challenges at the intersection of water management, environmental sustainability, and public health concerns. What began as a small research unit with just 6 academics has grown into a vibrant community of 20 academics and >50 PhD students.
Our group has pioneered innovative approaches to complex environmental challenges, earning recognition for our interdisciplinary research methodology that brings together experts from engineering, biology, public health, and social sciences. This collaborative approach has positioned us at the forefront of developing sustainable solutions for global environmental and health challenges.
Over the past two decades, we have expanded our research focus to include emerging concerns such as microplastics, resource recovery, and the health impacts of climate change, while maintaining our core expertise in water quality, sanitation systems, and indoor air quality.
Our Mission
To advance scientific knowledge and develop practical solutions for sustainable water management, improved public health outcomes, and environmental protection through rigorous interdisciplinary research, innovation, and collaboration.
Our Vision
A world where communities have equitable access to clean water, healthy environments, and sustainable sanitation systems, supported by evidence-based policies and innovative technologies that promote human and ecological wellbeing.
Our Journey
Department Founded
The Water, Public Health and Environment department was established with 6 founding academics.
First Major Research Grant
Secured £2.5M funding for groundbreaking water purification research, establishing our international reputation.
Public Health Group Established
Expansion into public health research with the addition of 4 new faculty members and dedicated laboratory space.
New Building Inauguration
Moved to our current purpose-built facility with state-of-the-art laboratories and collaborative workspaces.
Indoor Air Group Launched
Expanded our research scope to include indoor air quality and ventilation systems research.
COVID-19 Response
Pivoted research to address pandemic challenges, developing COVID-safe ventilation guidelines and rapid water testing methods.
Environmental Excellence Award
Received the prestigious Environmental Research Excellence Award for our collective work on microplastics.
Today
Now with 25 academic staff and 50 PhD researchers across four research groups, we continue to expand our impact on global environmental challenges.
Leadership Team
Dr. Marco-Felipe King
Dr. Cynthia Okoro Shekwaga
Dr. Amir Khan
Miss Anushi Khandare
Laboratry Team
Dr. Marco-Felipe King
Dr. Cynthia Okoro Shekwaga
Dr. Amir Khan
Miss Anushi Khandare
Our Partners
Contact Information
Location
Water, Public Health and Environment Group
School of Civil Enginering
Woodhouse Lane
Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.
General Inquiries: wpe-group@leeds.ac.uk
PhD Inquiries: civil@leeds.ac.uk
Office Hours
Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Closed on weekends and university holidays