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Institute for Water and Health

The IWH brings science and technology to action for a collective vision of safe water, a sustainable environment and resilient communities.

What We Do

We conduct innovative water research and develop new technologies to address the immediate needs of our multisectoral partners.

“Access to safe water is a global challenge. It is directly related to unlocking economic development, improving health and providing opportunities so people have a shot at a quality life. ”

-Dr. Asli Aslan, IWH Director

Water is necessary for healthy communities, dynamic economies and sustainable natural resources. Increasing water demand, aging infrastructure and rising sea levels challenge growth. The IWH supports resiliency by providing scientific expertise and technology where and when it is needed most.

Mission, Vision and Goals

At the Institute for Water and Health (IWH), we are dedicated to delivering scientific and technological solutions that promote safe water, a sustainable environment and resilient communities. Through research, education and outreach, we foster collaboration between academia, industry, nonprofits and government agencies to address critical water challenges with innovative, sustainable solutions that drive economic growth and environmental resilience.

As a leader in water research, IWH is uniquely positioned to tackle globally relevant water challenges that span economic, ecological and social dimensions. Our team of experts advances science, technology and engineering to meet the growing demand for water resources, while equipping the next generation of water professionals with the skills needed to compete in a global workforce.

Our Goals

  • Develop tailored best practices for stakeholders through cutting-edge research and strategic partnerships.
  • Inform and shape water policies with science-driven research.
  • Train and educate future water professionals, ensuring a skilled and prepared workforce.

Public Impact

IWH’s mission is in alignment with Georgia Southern’s mission and vision as a Public Impact Research University, providing transformative research and learning experiences to the communities we serve. With the unique background and expertise of Georgia Southern faculty and external collaborators, the institute is ready to expand its research portfolio beyond Georgia.

Local Solutions to Global Goals

Projects undertaken by the Institute for Water and Health work to solve issues that address 9 of the 17 sustainable development goals identified by the United Nations.

Learn More About the UN Goals
Graphic logo for the sustainable development goals set by the United Nations. Visit the link for a version of this graphic that breaks it down further.

IWH Laboratories

IWH Laboratories conducts water and health research and provides environmental assessment services. The 8,000 sqft facilities are located in Savannah, Georgia has four laboratories, offices for researchers, field equipment, and computational resources.

More About Our Laboratories

Where We Operate

Coastal Georgia

Based in Savannah, the IWH engages with local organizations like the REAL Taskforce, Vernon River Watershed Committee, and GA Coastal Indicators Coalition. We collaborate with nonprofits and academic partners, including Riverkeepers and Coastal College of Georgia, to enhance communication, research, and education. Coastal Georgia hosts a fast-growing population, a major port, three military bases, and unspoiled estuaries with aquaculture and eco-tourism potential. This diverse region includes affluent areas alongside underserved communities facing environmental challenges. IWH supports all, promoting clean water and sustainability.

Eastern United States

Although much of the work done by the IWH is located in Georgia, collaborations don’t stop at the state line. We partner with data collection networks ranging from Florida to Maryland looking at beach bacteria levels, predictive modeling, and citizen science projects. Across the coast, we are members of the Southeast Coastal Observing Regional Association, a water quality data clearing house and research partner. The Swamp2Gulf program led by GS College of Education faculty trains teachers from GA to FL in professional development related to water quality and education.

Rural Communities

The IWH serves rural and agricultural areas beyond Savannah and Brunswick, addressing challenges like private wells, septic systems, irrigation, and public health. These issues are deeply connected, requiring collaborative solutions. To support local resilience, the IWH works closely with municipal governments, Farm Bureaus, and water planning commissions, co-developing research projects tailored to community needs. Through these partnerships, we help improve water access, quality, and management, ensuring sustainable practices that protect both residents and ecosystems.

Around the Globe

Collaborating with faculty, local NGOs, and a Harvard public health graduate student, the IWH developed a research project to assess water quality in Santa Lucia and Colomoncagua, Honduras. By pinpointing contamination issues, affected communities can now allocate resources effectively to improve water safety and public health.