The goal of our research is to combine process modeling and molecular biology to understand the urban water cycle and consequently inform water treatment approaches, policy, and technology development. We exploit molecular data to expand water process models and develop a deeper understanding of biological water processing. We integrate modeling and experimental research to ultimately improve the function of wastewater treatment plants. Our research group seeks to develop a fundamental understanding of how microbes communicate and apply this knowledge to better (1) use biofilm processes within engineered urban water systems and (2) understand and harness emerging nitrogen cycling organisms within wastewater systems.