I (Irma) Steemers-Rijkse

As Programme Manager Circular Water Technologies at Wageningen Food & Biobased Research (WFBR), I work on water-related innovation, strategic development, and collaboration with industry, public authorities, and research organisations. My activities include initiating and developing new projects and partnerships, identifying opportunities for innovation and funding, building public-private collaborations, and connecting WUR expertise to societal and industrial challenges.

Within the Circular Water Technologies programme, we address challenges related to circular water use, desalination, wastewater treatment, nutrient recovery, industrial water management, and the water-energy-food nexus. We develop, validate, and implement innovative solutions for sustainable and resource-efficient water systems, including membrane and separation technologies, nature-based solutions, biobased water treatment chemicals, monitoring and disinfection technologies, and solutions supporting the energy transition. Projects are approached from an integral perspective, combining technological, environmental, economic, and implementation aspects.

Within WUR, I collaborate with colleagues from different research groups and disciplines to contribute to multidisciplinary solutions for complex water-related challenges.

My education includes Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Sciences & Ecotoxicology, and Management Studies. I started my career at TNO-ITC Utrecht in membrane research and subsequently worked at Utrecht University in bio-organic chemistry. From 1987 to 2019, I held various positions in the water treatment industry, including research and development, product management, technical and commercial support, project management, and strategic market development. During this period, my focus shifted towards sustainable technologies, biodegradable products, circular solutions, and innovation pathways that facilitate implementation and adoption.

• Envaqua / Water Alliance (15-9-2022/15-9-2033)
  Deelnemen aan overleggen en activiteiten van de expertgroep koelwater van de branchevereniging voor water- en milieutechnologie Envaqua (vanaf 1-1-2023 Water Alliance)