About
Pedro Alvarez is the George R. Brown Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Rice University, directing both the NSF-funded NEWT Center and the Rice WaTER Institute. His research focuses on environmental sustainability through bioremediation, nanotechnology applications in water treatment, and antibiotic resistance control. Notable roles include leadership in AEESP and editorial positions at Environmental Science & Technology.
Education: B.Eng. in Civil Engineering from McGill University, MS and PhD in Environmental Engineering from University of Michigan. Recognized with prestigious awards including the 2012 Clarke Prize and election to the National Academy of Engineering and Chinese Academy of Engineering.
Research emphasizes nanomaterial synthesis for water treatment, microbial-plant interactions, and toxic chemical fate. Key contributions include phage-based biocontrol strategies and sustainable water reuse technologies. His work bridges engineering, microbiology, and chemistry to address global environmental challenges.
Awards highlight both research and teaching excellence, including the AAEES Grand Prize and Collegiate Excellence in Teaching Award. Active in policy through EPA advisory roles and Houston Endowment board service.
Grants and collaborations fund initiatives like bacteriophage engineering for biofilm control and nanoscale environmental remediation. Labs and centers under his direction focus on scalable solutions for clean water access and environmental nanotechnology innovation.
