Paul van der Wielen PhD

Paul van der Wielen is Principal Scientist in the Water Microbiology research domain and a member of KWR’s Scientific Council. He is also an endowed professor at Radboud University, holding the chair in ‘Microbial Ecology of Water Systems’. His research aims to ensure high, safe and reliable water quality in water systems. His research focuses on: (1) preventing the growth of opportunistic pathogens, such as Legionella pneumophila and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in man-made water systems; (2) developing and monitoring healthy aquatic ecosystems; (3) developing methods for detecting and monitoring opportunistic pathogens, microbial growth, biofilms, biological stability and general (micro)biological activity in water systems; (4) elucidating the interactions between microorganisms and environmental conditions in man-made and natural water systems, and applying this knowledge to improve water quality; and (5) harnessing (micro)biological activity in water treatment processes and nature-based solutions to remove undesirable substances, such as micropollutants and biodegradable compounds.

In addition, he applies the knowledge gained through his research to help clients address water quality issues in their water systems. These systems range from drinking water supplies, cooling towers, wastewater and industrial water systems to water used in horticulture and natural water bodies. He is an internationally recognised expert and is regularly invited to review scientific manuscripts and serve on scientific advisory committees. For example, in 2019, he served on the Legionella advisory committee of the National Academy of Sciences in the United States.