David Hanigan

David Hanigan serves as Associate Professor and Associate Chair for Undergraduate Affairs in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Nevada, Reno's College of Engineering. His research addresses critical water quality challenges including disinfection byproduct formation, PFAS contamination, and climate change impacts on water resources, with significant contributions to potable reuse and agricultural irrigation safety.

Dr. Hanigan's work focuses on environmental contaminants in engineered and natural water systems, particularly N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) precursors, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and disinfection byproducts. His research integrates experimental toxicology, advanced analytical chemistry, and treatment process optimization to develop solutions for drinking water safety, wildfire-impacted watersheds, and reclaimed water applications. Current projects examine volatile PFAS release mechanisms, nitrosamine formation pathways, and community water resilience in climate-vulnerable regions.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strategic progression toward climate-resilient water infrastructure, with increasing emphasis on wildfire impacts, vapor-phase contaminant transport, and advanced oxidation for potable reuse. His group consistently bridges fundamental chemistry with practical treatment solutions, evidenced by collaborations with agencies like NSF, SERDP, and Jackson State University on community water resilience projects.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Environmental Science & Technology Early Career Editorial Board (2024)

Dr. Hanigan has mentored over 15 graduate students to completion, including PhD candidates like Junli Wang (2022) and Kenneth Hickenbottom (2023), and MS graduates such as Lauren Edwards (2025). His research is funded by major grants including NSF's GOALI project on PFAS release (2021), SERDP's PFAS initiative, USDA's agricultural reuse study, and a 2025 collaboration with Louisiana Tech on climate-resilient water-energy systems. Current work focuses on vapor-phase PFAS methods and natural vs. anthropogenic nitrosamine precursor differentiation.

The Hanigan Lab, established in 2016, operates as a dynamic interdisciplinary team with postdocs, graduate students, and undergraduates. Located in UNR's SEM building, the lab maintains partnerships with Orange County Water District, Jackson State University, and the National Journal for field investigations. Recent group photos and active recruitment (including 2025 additions Peter, Isabela, and Naomi) reflect its ongoing expansion and collaborative spirit in addressing emerging water quality threats.