Stereo Chemistry · Chemical & Engineering News

Jessica Ray and William Tarpeh on clean water, turning trash into treasure, and life as assistant professors

December 21, 2021·27 min·2 clips

Jessica Ray and William Tarpeh joke about urine while discussing their groundbreaking work in water treatment.

This episode of Stereo Chemistry features environmental engineers and assistant professors Jessica Ray and William Tarpeh discussing their careers and clean water science. Hosts Keri Jansen and Atabey Rodriguez-Benitez are joined by CNN reporter Katie Borzek for the conversation. Ray runs a research lab at the University of Washington, while Tarpeh leads one at Stanford University. The discussion covers the challenges of being a new professor, including navigating conflicting advice from mentors. Tarpeh specifically highlights the difficulty of reconciling diametrically opposed guidance. Both professors reflect on their time working together at UC Berkeley. A significant portion of the episode focuses on their ambitions for a more sustainable future, extending beyond green technology development. A core shared goal is ensuring universal access to clean water and sanitation. Tarpeh's research specialization involves the treatment of urine as a wastewater stream. The conversation includes lighthearted reminiscing, with Ray hoping for urine-related jokes during the talk. The engineers emphasize that their work involves learning from each other as they grow into their professorial roles. They position their scientific work within a broader social mission of equitable resource access. The tone is conversational and collegial, blending personal anecdote with professional and scientific discussion. The style is educational and interview-based, facilitated by a journalist. Listeners interested in environmental engineering, academic career paths, and sustainable technology would enjoy this episode. Those seeking a highly technical or debate-focused scientific podcast might find it less aligned with their interests.

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