Rafael is an Associate Lecturer in Civil & Environmental Engineering at UNSW Sydney and the Program Manager of the Nuisance and Harmful Algae Science-Practice Partnership (NHASP).

Rafael likes to work on applied research, tackling current and emerging challenges faced by the water industry. His research experience and interests include:

Microbial interactions in environmental water

With the focus of understanding the roles and interactions of microbiomes and how they affect quality and treatability of water, including the use of molecular techniques and the effects of antimicrobial resistance.

Data-driven modelling and remote sensing of the environment

With and understanding that models and remote sensing techniques should have a solid foundation on the underlying mechanisms and used as additional tools. Past experiences include machine learning applications for optmisation of drinking water treatment and satellite monitoring of urban and rural waterbodies.

Environmental water management strategies

Aiming to find sustainable solutions, with a focus on water sensitive urban design and environmentally friendly technologies.