Diana’s research was initiated by a desire to help people in her home country, Iran, have access to clean water.
As part of our pioneering STEM Communication Programme, our Year One A level students shared their paired research projects at the NatMatSci Academic Poster Conference.
This year’s conference included many outstanding projects, including the work of Diana, a Year One A level student from Iran. Diana’s research focused on developing a water purification method that could help provide clean and safe sources of drinking water to those in her country who do not have access to them.
Diana’s goal is to find a solution that is cost-effective and easy to implement, which could make a significant impact on the lives of those in need. Her research has provided her with a better understanding of the chemistry behind water purification and how to conduct standard laboratory tests efficiently.
Diana is currently enrolled in our Preparation for Medicine Programme, with the aim of pursuing her passion for medicine in the UK and becoming a surgeon.
My research was on developing a water purification method that resulted in the production of an actual purification powder which has an incredible effect of 99.9% reduction in contaminants and 89% reduction in turbidity.
The original reason why I chose this topic is the unfortunate reality that many people in my country, Iran (especially in the southern regions), do not have access to clean and safe sources of water. As a result, their only option is to drink unhealthy, contaminated water which causes many diseases. So, I thought finding a method that doesn’t need a large budget to provide machines and factories could provide a solution to alleviate their suffering and of course for all those who are at the same risk and position.
During the research process, I gained a better understanding of how to efficiently read research articles and previous studies and use them as guide not a competitor. It also helped me to learn a lot about the chemistry behind water purification and how to conduct standard and efficient laboratory tests.
My next goal is to continue increasing the purification rate and bringing it to an actual product that can go into major production!
This product has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of those who lack access to clean water in my country and around the world.
Diana, Year One, Medical Preparation Programme
Here is Diana’s impressive research poster – find out more about our A level Programme and our two year Preparation for Medicine Programme.
