An Enlightening NUS Public Lecture
by Professor Joan Rose

The National University of Singapore (NUS) is honoured to host Prof. Joan Rose for a compelling public lecture on "The Ecology of Water Quality and Health" on January 8, 2025. The lecture was a successful collaboration between the NUS Environmental Research Institute (NERI) and the Global Young Scientists Summit (GYSS), presented by the National Research Foundation (NRF).

The event drew a diverse audience, with attendees from academia, government agencies, and industry eager to engage in discussions on critical water quality issues. Prof. Rose addressed the challenges of the Anthropocene era, highlighting how climate change, rapid population growth, and significant land-use changes contribute to global water quality degradation.

Her insights emphasised the crucial connection between water and food security and the growing risks of waterborne diseases due to pollution and wastewater. Her exploration of cutting-edge technologies like PCR and genetic diagnostics captivated the audience, which enhanced global water surveillance and pathogen risk assessment.

Prof. Rose's presentation underscored the need to integrate the "One Water" and "One Health" frameworks to foster sustainable solutions and prioritise policy changes. This event inspired meaningful dialogue and reinforced the collaborative spirit essential for advancing global efforts in water sustainability and public health.

We thank Assoc. Prof. Sanjay Swarup, NERI Director, for moderating the Q&A session and facilitating a dynamic and insightful exchange.