Li Research Group
Team Advisor/PI
Project Description/ Research Team Goals
Dr. Qilin Li’s lab, the Li Lab for Advanced Water Treatment Technologies, is at the forefront of research focused on innovative solutions for water treatment. The lab’s work encompasses the development of novel materials and processes, as well as system-level designs that enhance the energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness of utilizing both conventional and alternative water resources. These advancements aim to improve water supply systems across residential, municipal, and industrial sectors. By integrating cutting-edge technologies and interdisciplinary approaches, our lab seeks to address key challenges in water purification and resource management, contributing to sustainable and efficient water treatment solutions. Our lab focuses on developing sustainable membrane-based and electrochemical technologies for water purification and resource recovery. Ongoing projects include urine treatment, selective electrodialysis processes, membrane distillation, electrochemical oxidation for contaminant degradation and rare earth element recovery. We have developed urine treatment systems that integrate electrodialysis and electrochemical disinfection technologies. System performance testing is ongoing, and we welcome undergraduate students to get involved in this project.
Issues Addressed
System performance and stability under real-world conditions; low selective for nutrint recovery
Research Methods and Technology
Electrodialysis: salt removal and nutrient recovery
Electrochemical oxidation & disinfection: organics and pathogen removal
Preferred Undergraduate Interests
Water treatment techniques
Academic Majors of Interest
Though open to all, most interested in:
- Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
Prior Preparation/Requisite Experience
Prefer wet lab experience in chemistry or water analysis; basic laboratory techniques; solution preparation
Compensation
Yes
Course Credit
CEVE 499
Team Meeting
Lab group meeting, once every two weeks, Friday 11am-1pm
Actively Onboarding New Members
Yes
Ready to Apply?
Use the linked Google Form to submit your application!
Contact
For more information, please email Dr. Qilin Li (qilin.li@rice.edu).