We are pleased to share with you a recent interview held with Dr. Hongxu Zhou, one of the winners of the Water 2025 Travel Award.

Name: Dr. Hongxu Zhou
Affiliation: Illinois Sustainable Technology Center, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, USA
Interests: water pollution control; biochar; agricultural water quality; contaminant remediation; sustainability assessment

Dr. Hongxu Zhou joined the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center (ISTC) in 2024 as a postdoc research associate. He is dedicated to providing practical engineering solutions to address water quality issues in the agricultural context. At ISTC, his current research focuses on the utilization of biochar systems for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) destruction.

The following is an interview with Dr. Hongxu Zhou:

1. Could you briefly introduce yourself and tell us more about your field of research?

I am a postdoc research associate at the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center (ISTC), University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Before that, I earned my Ph.D. from the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I am dedicated to providing practical engineering solutions to address water quality issues in the agricultural context. My research focuses on water quality management, the treatment of both traditional and emerging contaminants, and advancing the circular economy. Through innovative eco-treatment and natural-based systems, such as engineered biochar application and denitrifying woodchip bioreactor systems, I integrate lab-scale studies, field-scale demonstrations, and sustainability analysis to understand how these technologies not only help improve water quality but also promote sustainable practices, addressing the critical balance between pollution mitigation and resource reuse. At ISTC, my current research focuses on the utilization of biochar systems for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) destruction.

2. Where did you obtain information about the Water Travel Award? What impressed you most about your previous collaboration with MDPI?

I learned about journal award participation through my advisor, Dr. Rabin Bhattarai, who has served as a Guest Editor for the Water journal for a long time. He highly values the journal for its commitment to publishing impactful research in water sciences and its professional review process. What impressed me the most was the responsiveness of the editors and offices. They consistently reply on time and maintain clear and professional communication. Additionally, the transparent editorial communication and the opportunity to collaborate with a global network of researchers have been truly inspiring.

3. As the winner of this award, is there anything you would like to express?

I am deeply honored to receive this award, which reflects the hard work and dedication of not only myself but also the incredible support I’ve received from my mentors, colleagues, and collaborators. This recognition motivates me to continue pursuing impactful research and contributing to advancements in water quality management and sustainable solutions. I am truly grateful for this opportunity and the trust placed in my work. I also thank the Water editorial team for recognizing our research on the biochar-based system for agricultural water management.

4. As you are aware, Water is an open access journal, so what is your opinion of the open access model of publication?

I believe the open access model of publication is a significant step toward making research more accessible and impactful. I appreciate the open access model as it aligns with the goal of advancing science for the benefit of society.

5. What advice do you have for researchers who want to pursue this path?

My advice to researchers is to fully embrace interdisciplinary approaches in their work. Many of today’s complex challenges, especially in areas like water quality and sustainable development, require solutions that bridge multiple fields of study. Collaborating with experts from diverse disciplines allows you to gain fresh perspectives, explore innovative methodologies, and develop holistic solutions. It’s also important to stay open-minded, as interdisciplinary work often involves stepping out of your comfort zone and learning from others.