Nikki van Bel PhD

Nikki van Bel is a medior scientific researcher in the field of microbiological water quality and health, and has almost ten years’ experience in microbiology. Nikki did her doctoral research in virology in the area of HIV/aids. At KWR, Nikki continues working on viruses and is also specialised in various facets of the microbiological safety of drinking water ‑ including the microbiological stability and safety of drinking water, and rapid microbiological measurement methods. For example, in a pilot set-up together with the Microbiological Laboratory, she has quantified the effectiveness of cleaning measures in the removal of pathogens from the drinking water distribution network. A further example is the validation of rapid microbiological sensors. Nikki also works on projects that exploit the properties of bacteria, for instance, for the biological degradation of organic micropollutants during drinking water production. Nikki regularly presents her research at international congresses and to clients. She collaborates with partners within and outside of KWR, and domestically and internationally, in seeking solutions to research questions and problems. Besides the conduct of research activities, project management and implementation are also part of her professional tasks.