Citizen Science project: Putting water on the Map

Water quality in the Netherlands is not complying with the European environmental targets (Water Framework Directive). Smaller waters are often neglected in the standard monitoring by water authorities. In our previous (Vang de Watermonsters) and current citizen science project (Water op de Kaart) we map the water quality of those smaller waters. We work together with learning communities (i.e. small groups) of citizen scientists on causes, consequences and solutions for the water quality problems. 

Learning Community on Urban Water

This year we are working with a learning community of citizen scientists that consists of about 30 volunteers to monitor the ecological quality of urban waters. More specifically, the citizen scientist will assess the ecological impact of a sewer overflow compared to a reference location for the coming year. Sewer overflows are an important source of pollution for urban waters.  The sewage discharge contains micro-pollutants, such as pharmaceuticals or pesticides. We want to use bioassays to evaluate the effect of the sewer overflow water on a few model species, such as zooplankton, algae, water snails or mosquito larvae. We are looking for a highly motivated student that wants to help us develop the methodology for this. After a literature review of existing bioassay methodologies, you will test a selection of these methods in a lab environment and evaluate the effectiveness of the method for uptake in citizen science. Experience with lab work is preferable. The outcome of the project would be a methodology that we can perform with the citizen scientists on a lab day in spring/summer. 

Application

If you are interested in this project, please contact Rosan van Halsema, PhD-candidate at the Netherlands Institute of Ecology.

• Type of work: Lab work, literature search, method development
• Level: MSc or BSc University of Applied Sciences
• Location(s): Wageningen 
• Duration: 4-6 months (in the period October 2024 – June 2025). Suitable for a thesis and/or internship.
• Having lab experience is preferred. Speaking Dutch is beneficial to translate the methodology to a protocol that is suitable for the citizen scientists, but not necessary.