The University of Calgary is committed to championing research and solutions for critical water issues locally and globally. Our focus is on fostering transdisciplinary research that addresses water sustainability, informed by diverse perspectives including Indigenous knowledge systems. Water is central to our sustainable future, and UCalgary is dedicated to making impactful contributions to global water security.
Focus areas
Key research themes include water resource management, climate resilience, and Indigenous approaches to water and environmental stewardship. By integrating knowledge from across disciplines, we seek to build adaptive solutions that meet both ecological and societal needs.
Impact
UCalgary is already a leader in water research, with a growing global footprint. Our work in water resource sustainability and policy informs practices not only in Alberta but also in international contexts, leveraging our expertise to tackle issues from water scarcity to climate change.
Want to connect with UCalgary water researchers and innovators? Email us at water@ucalgary.ca.
Dr. Kerry Black, PhD, and Dr. Martyn Clark, PhD, discuss what makes UCalgary a unique hub for addressing water security challenges.
Cody Coates, Office of the Vice-President (Research)
Research themes
Learn more about the research themes and facilities
Canada Excellence Research Chair: Dr. Deborah McGregor
Dr. McGregor, a renowned scholar in Indigenous Environmental Justice, leads research at UCalgary on climate and water sustainability. Her work emphasizes Indigenous leadership and community engagement, creating pathways for Indigenous approaches to sustainability that can influence both local and global policies.
United Nations University (UNU) Hub
The UNU Hub at UCalgary focuses on empowering communities to adapt to environmental change. This global partnership addresses water challenges through interdisciplinary research and training, preparing students and researchers to engage with water security issues across multiple scales and geographies.
UNESCO collaborations
UCalgary’s UNESCO initiatives contribute to sustainable mountain water management and resilience strategies. These programs connect UCalgary with global efforts to understand and mitigate water-related threats, furthering our commitment to sustainability and climate action.
Latest Water Institute news
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Indigenous-led climate action initiatives in partnership with UCalgary
Community-based projects drive climate resilience through collaboration and research
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Blue Peace and beyond: UCalgary, Swiss Consulate host global dialogue on water diplomacy
International leaders convene at UCalgary to strengthen networks and science-driven solutions for shared water resources
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International clout grows for climate change, water management training
UCalgary summer program uses Bow River watershed as living classroom
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Innovative Japanese wastewater treatment technology being evaluated at UCalgary for use in cold climates and rural communities
International partnership addresses water sustainability challenges, from Japan to Alberta and beyond