Harold W. Walker

Harold W. Walker is the Schwaber Professor of Environmental Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), leading the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. He holds a PhD in Environmental Engineering from the University of California, Irvine (1996), and previously served as Founding Chair of Civil Engineering at Stony Brook University and Director of the Ohio Water Resources Center. His research focuses on clean water technologies, including novel membranes, cyanotoxin removal, and nitrogen-removing biofilters. He has advised numerous students and collaborated on projects funded by NSF, EPA, and other agencies.

• Education:
  • PhD, Environmental Engineering, UC Irvine (1996)
  • MS, Civil Engineering, UC Irvine (1994)
  • BS, Environmental Engineering, Cal Poly SLO (1991)
• Positions:
  • Schwaber Professor at WPI (current)
  • Founding Chair, Stony Brook Civil Engineering (prior)
  • Co-Director, NY State Clean Water Center

Research interests include membrane fouling prevention, nanocellulose materials, and sustainable wastewater systems. Notable projects involve developing biofilters for nitrogen removal and addressing 1,4-dioxane contamination. Walker’s work integrates engineering with policy, emphasizing interdisciplinary solutions for global water challenges. He has been featured in media for his expertise on harmful algal blooms and water safety.

His lab focuses on advancing sustainable water treatment technologies, including full-scale nitrogen removing biofilters (NRBs) and novel membrane systems. Collaborations with institutions like Stony Brook and Ohio State have driven innovations in water purification and resource recovery. Walker is also a registered Professional Engineer in Ohio.