Canada-India Collaborative Workshop on Sewer Epidemiology and Pandemic Preparedness

The Pathogen Research Centre (PaRC) at Western University will host a launch event for the groundbreaking project "Next Generation Epidemiological Models for Accurate Predictions of Future Pandemic Waves: Integrating Sewer Simulations with Public Health Information Using Machine-Learning Algorithms" This innovative project, a collaborative effort between leading researchers from Canada and India, aims to develop advanced tools for pandemic prediction and management through the integration of wastewater-based epidemiology and machine-learning techniques.

About the Project:

The project addresses significant challenges in wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE), which has proven effective for rapid pandemic response. Traditional WBE models often face limitations due to inaccuracies in assumptions regarding pathogen behavior in sewer systems. Our project aims to fill these knowledge gaps through:

  • Pilot Studies in Canada: Conducting detailed experiments to characterize the interactions of pathogens within sewer systems under well-controlled conditions, in CL2 and CL3 laboratories.
  • Model Development in India: To develop sophisticated epidemiological models using machine-learning algorithms, based on data from the pilot studies conducted in Canada.

The Canadian team, led by Prof. Ajay Ray from Western University, will focus on experimental studies and data collection, while the Indian team, led by Prof. Sridharakumar Narasimhan from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, will develop predictive models based on the collected data.

Event Details:

  • Date: September 16th – September 18th 2024
  • Time: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
  • Location: Kresge 208
  • Format: Workshop-style with interactive sessions and panel brainstorm discussions

Key Objectives

  • Pilot Studies: Characterize pathogen-sewer interactions in real-life situations.
  • Model Development: Create next-generation epidemiological models.
  • Validation: Test models through numerical case studies for Canada and India.
  • Dissemination and Commercialization: Develop strategies for knowledge transfer and commercialization of the developed technologies.

Event Highlights

  • Opening Remarks: By distinguished guests and project leads.
  • Panel Discussions: Featuring experts from Canada and India discussing the integration of sewer epidemiology with public health.
  • Interactive Workshop and Visit to key facilities: ImPaKT (CL2/CL3 laboratories, PaRC.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with researchers, industry professionals, and policymakers.

Speakers and Participants

  • Prof. Ajay Ray, Western University, Canada
  • Prof. Sridharakumar Narasimhan, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, India
  • Dr. Domenico Santoro, Co-Principal Investigator, Canada
  • Prof. Sreenivasa Murty Bhallamudi, Co-Principal Investigator, India
  • Dr. Saverio Stranges, Collaborator, Western University
  • Dr. Matthew Ward, Collaborator, The Wats Guys
  • Dr. Rahim Kanji, Collaborator, Ontario Water Consortium
  • Mr. Michael Di Lullo, Collaborator, Municipality of Middlesex Centre
  • Prof. Eric J. Arts, Collaborator, Western University
  • Prof. Miguel E. Quiñones-Mateu, Collaborator, University of Otago

Join us for this engaging event to learn more about our collaborative efforts to advance public health through innovative wastewater-based epidemiology. Together, we aim to build resilient and carbon-neutral communities in a post-COVID world.

We look forward to your participation!