PhD research best in nation

University of Southern Queensland (USQ) engineering lecturer Dr Ian Brodie's PhD research into stormwater runoff has led to a national research award for excellence from the Stormwater Industry Association (SIA).

The SIA, which is the peak body for urban stormwater management, is an organisation that promotes innovative and sustainable practice technologies, standards and policies that minimise the adverse environmental, social and economic impacts of stormwater.

Dr Brodie's PhD, Suspended Solids in Stormwater Runoff, was last month recognised with the Stormwater Industry Association of Queensland (SIAQ) state award for excellence, which allowed him to nominate for the national honour.

'After I won the state award I had to apply again for the national one but I was a bit surprised when I won,' Dr Brodie said.

'The other nominations were of a reasonably high standard so it was a great result for me.'

Beating out several other researchers from different universities for the award, Dr Brodie's stormwater research produced data related to stormwater and water systems within a catchment.

'Suspended solids can be things such as dust or dirt, which can create a significant environmental pollutant,' Dr Brodie said.

'My research was looking at stormwater runoff from different surfaces and taking samples from a number of locations.

'The information from the research is providing good knowledge of how to plan stormwater runoff and how to manage the pollution.'

With the SIA consisting of members from industry and local government, as well as academics, the awards are a chance for researchers to be recognised by their peers.

'The applications were assessed by a panel of about half a dozen representatives from universities, local council and industry,' Dr Brodie said.

Winners from each state, including Dr Brodie travelled to Melbourne for the awards ceremony, which was held last Thursday night (November 15, 2007).

Media Contact:  Josh Ada, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 1628