Qualifications

PhD in Biotechnology from the University of Canterbury studying the development of a biopolymer surrogate to mimic Legionella pneumophila transportation in drinking water distribution systems.

About

Sujani is an early-career scientist with research interests spanning the development of biopolymer surrogates, novel disinfection techniques, and the public health risks of emerging microbial contaminants such as free-living protozoa. She is passionate about translating scientific innovation into practical solutions that address real-world public health challenges. She currently leads a strategic Science Investment Fund (SSIF) project funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), investigating the use of 3D-printed bacteriophage carriers for biofilm disruption in drinking water systems. This pioneering research explores the biocontrol potential of environmental bacteriophages and innovative bacteriophage delivery mechanisms, in collaboration with the University of Canterbury. She has an extensive publication record, including development of novel surrogates to study transportation of waterborne human pathogens, the diversity of free-living amoebae in Canterbury groundwater, and the dynamics of non-bacterial microflora in urban wastewater treatment plants. Sujani has also contributed to national standards development as a committee member for Standards New Zealand’s Trans-Tasman Standards Alignment Programme.

Publications