From climate change to public health, today’s most pressing issues transcend borders.
International research collaborations such as the one between the University of Ottawa and Tec de Monterrey (Monterrey, Mexico) bring together diverse expertise, resources, and perspectives to accelerate innovation and create sustainable solutions. By working across countries and disciplines, researchers can ensure that breakthroughs benefit communities worldwide.
Below are two important projects that are driving change.
Next-generation biosensors for water safety
Access to safe drinking water remains a critical public health challenge in Mexico and Canada, where waterborne pathogens like E. coli can cause severe illness and even death. Professors Xudong Cao from the University of Ottawa and Masoud Madadelahi from Tec de Monterrey are collaborating to develop an ultra-sensitive microfluidics-based biosensor for rapid detection of these pathogens.
The team is engineering a novel microchannel system that reduces background noise, enhances target capture and amplifies detection signals. At uOttawa, researchers have optimized surface modifications and rolling circle amplification reactions to improve sensitivity, while the Tec de Monterrey team has designed a microfluidic device with reciprocating flow to boost pathogen capture. These innovations could lead to faster, more reliable monitoring of drinking water supplies, helping prevent outbreaks and protect public health.
Turning livestock waste into sustainable solutions
Livestock farming generates vast amounts of wastewater, posing environmental and public health challenges. Professors Christopher Lan from the University of Ottawa and Misael Gradilla-Hernández from Tec de Monterrey are tackling this issue by developing a microalgae-based wastewater treatment system that supports a circular bioeconomy.
The project evaluates scalable pretreatment strategies, such as centrifugation and UV radiation, to optimize microalgae growth in nutrient-rich livestock waste. This approach cleans wastewater and produces valuable byproducts like biofertilizers and biogas, reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Life cycle analysis shows that the optimized system significantly cuts global warming potential and water consumption, offering a promising pathway for sustainable livestock practices in Mexico and beyond.
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