Joseph Akunna

What do you teach at Abertay and why do you enjoy working with students?

I am a civil engineer and specialise in water supply and treatment, and environmental management science and technology. Hence, my teaching spans from applied mathematics in water power and motion to applied biochemistry in pollution management and control technologies. Working with students is hugely rewarding and I really enjoy feeling like I’m making a difference to the lives of others. 

What made you want to become an academic?

Professional and intellectual freedom. Academic life provides freedom to engage in in-depth study of a subject area and to pass on findings to others. This is a never-ending process because virtually every aspect of human activity requires future insight. In other words, one is practically one’s own boss when it comes to choosing ways to meet the very high standard required to make a success of the profession. I also have a love for knowledge transfer. There is huge satisfaction in being part of a team that converts people with little or no knowledge of a subject area, or profession, into professionals and experts within a relatively short time. Seeing many of these new experts progress in their careers, and in many cases overtake those of their tutors, is very fulfilling. 

Why do you feel a University education is important?

University education offers a structural training that can form an effective foundation for life’s endeavours. In addition to creating opportunities for students to meet lifelong friends and acquaintances, and meet and interact with people from different cultures and background, university teaches students how to learn and self-educate effectively. Living is all about learning new things and new skills, and university enhances this skill enormously.

What are your research interests and which projects are you currently working on?

My research interests cover a vast area that includes water resources management, water treatment and pollution control, waste and wastewater management and treatment, anaerobic digestion (i.e., aka biogas or bioenergy technology). Interestingly, at any given time, I have projects in many of these areas supported by my wonderful research students.

What are you most proud of?

Being able to see my students complete their programmes successfully and land good jobs.