Robert Sharp

Robert Sharp is a Research Professor in Civil & Environmental Engineering at Manhattan College, where he has served since 1996. He directs a research laboratory focused on advanced water and wastewater treatment, biological regrowth, corrosion, and energy recovery. He is also a process specialist at Hazen and Sawyer Engineers in NYC and holds the Donald J. O’Connor Endowed Faculty Fellowship. His research spans nutrient removal, anaerobic digestion, and bioremediation, with over 40 peer-reviewed publications and 75 conference presentations.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University
• M.S. and B.S. in Civil Engineering, University of New Mexico

Research Interests:

• Biological nutrient removal and energy recovery from wastewater
• Anaerobic digestion and bioenergy production
• Pathogen disinfection and microbial ecology
• Corrosion and biofilm control in water systems

His work emphasizes sustainable solutions for water treatment and resource recovery.

Awards:

• Water Environment Federation Fellow (2019)
• Samuel Arnold Greeley Award (2018)
• WEF Eddy Medal for Applied Research
• Multiple teaching awards (2004–2011)

Grants and Projects:

• Lead investigator on NYSERDA’s NYC Food Waste Co-Digestion Project (2016–2019)
• Co-research director on a $7.5M NYC DEP-funded nitrogen removal program
• Extensive collaborations with NYC DEP, Hazen and Sawyer, and academic institutions

Professional Activities:

• Member of WEF, NYWEA, and other environmental engineering organizations
• Chair of WEFTEC workshops on resource recovery and sustainability
• Peer reviewer for NSF, EPA, and international research programs