Signe Haukelidsaeter

Background

About Signe Haukelidsaeter

I'm a PhD candidate at Utrecht University, specializing in geochemical processes in rapid sand filters used for drinking water production. My research is part of an interdisciplinary project between the geochemistry group at Utrecht University and the microbiology group at Radboud University, funded by NWO and conducted in collaboration with Vitens and Dunea. My work focuses on understanding the removal mechanisms of iron, manganese, and ammonium in full-scale sand filters. I investigate how factors such as filter age, backwashing routines, and the interactions between removal processes influence treatment efficiency—especially during the start-up of new filters. Our goal is to develop a predictive model that helps water utilities optimize filter operation and improve the sustainability and reliability of drinking water production.