Kathryn E Ellis

Kate Ellis

Postgraduate Researcher

Research Group:

Stream IDC

Biography:

I joined the STREAM programme in 2009. I obtained undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in environmental sciences, specialising in water resource protection and worked as a Scientist for Wessex Water focussing on wastewater regulatory analyses. I gained a Masters degree at Cranfield University in Water and Wastewater Technology in 2009 having completed a research project in potable water filtration; this encouraged my application for the research project with the University of Sheffield and Severn Trent Water.

Supervisor:

Professor Catherine Biggs

Research Interests:

My project is entitled "Towards zero bacteriological failures in distribution systems."

Water quality failures are rare in the Severn Trent Water region, but of the small number of non-compliances a greater proportion is for bacteriological parameters (coliforms, E. coli, C. perfringens, or Enterococci). I have analysed spot sampling data relating to bacteriological failures and my research going forward focusses on the development of tools that utilise monitor data to prevent poorer performance. I have also conducted work to develop an understanding of the financial impact of bacteriological failures. This work is feeding into company policy and will enable a cost benefit assessment of utilising my final research outcomes.

Publications:

K Ellis, B Ryan, M R Templeton, C A Biggs. (2012). Improving Bacteriological Water Quality Compliance of Drinking Water. IN: D Kay, C Fricker (eds.). The Significance of Faecal Indicators in Water: A Global Perspective. Cambridge: The Royal Society of Chemistry.