Katherine (Kate) Kazmer (Harrison)
kateharr@umich.edu
Twitter: @GreatLakesKate
Environmental Engineering PhD Candidate
Advisor: Krista Wigginton
2021 M.S.E. Environmental Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
2019 Honors B.S. Civil Engineering, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI
Research Interests:
My research interests are at the intersection of Environmental Engineering and Public Health. I analyze the effect of protein capsids on detection of viral RNA and DNA in wastewater to better understand how this environment impacts virus measurement and mitigation. Current methods used in this research area can inform public health surveillance of various viruses that cause disease. I also work with members of the Michigan Medicine team to determine effective inactivation of viruses on masks for reuse during supply shortages. My research seeks to identify gaps and use effective approaches to measure viruses in engineered systems.
Current Research Projects:
Interactions between different treatment processes and viral genomes as they pass through the engineered water cycle. Specifically:
- Chlorine disinfection
- Wastewater conveyance and surveillance
Novel approaches to monitor viruses in indirect potable reuse systems to effectively mitigate risks in real-time
Outreach/Teaching/Broader Impacts:
Contributing member of CEE Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee
Member of the Graduate Society of Women Engineers (GradSWE)
Certificate in Healthcare Infection Prevention & Control (CHIP) Program