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Maryam Moridnejad

Maryam Moridnejad high-res

Principal Academic Staff Member

Contact info

Phone
834 8800 ext 3889

About

Awards

Qualifications

  • Doctor of Philosophy - Civil and Environmental Engineering                                     
    The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
  • Master of Water Engineering                           
    The University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

  • Bachelor of Water Engineering
    Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran      

  • New Zealand Certificate in Adult and Tertiary Education and Teaching 
    Waikato Institute of Technology, Hamilton, New Zealand

Areas of expertise

  • Hydrology 
  • Hydrogeology
  • Water resources management
  • Urban water management
  • Water engineering

Industry experience, affiliations, and achievements

Research activity

My research focuses on water resources management and water governance, integrating technical expertise with a commitment to sustainability, equity, and evidence-based practice. In parallel, I conduct research in engineering education and diversity in STEM, with particular interest in the participation and experiences of under-represented groups. Across these areas, my work aims to generate insights that support sustainable water management, advance inclusive educational practice, and strengthen resilience and equity in the water sector.

 https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Maryam-Moridnejad

Select publications

What do you enjoy about teaching/your job?

I enjoy supporting students to connect engineering concepts with real-world challenges and helping them gain confidence in their own abilities. Teaching is rewarding because it allows me to create inclusive learning environments and inspire future engineers to think critically. I also value the collaborative nature of my wider role, working with colleagues, industry, and communities to translate research into practical solutions that improve water outcomes and support meaningful change. Beyond teaching and research, I enjoy the leadership aspects of my work, particularly the opportunity to lead applied research projects, influence industry practice, contribute to sector-wide initiatives, and help shape conversations around sustainable and equitable water management.

What do you love about your area?

I love working in the water sector because it sits at the heart of environmental, social, and economic wellbeing. Water connects people, ecosystems, and communities, and the challenges we face, such as climate change, ageing and under-invested infrastructure, equity, and sustainability, require innovative, collaborative solutions. I am inspired by the opportunity to contribute to work that has real impact, helping protect our water and support resilient, thriving communities.

Tell us about your experience in the industry

I have over 15 years of experience in the water sector, applied research, industry, and higher education. My work centres on water resources management, water governance, and sustainability, and I have led collaborative, multi-stakeholder projects with industry, academia, and community organisations. I bring a blend of technical expertise and academic leadership, with strengths in programme and project management, research supervision, and technical analysis. My work focuses on developing applied, evidence-based solutions that improve water sector practice and educational outcomes.

I am actively involved in the sector through affiliations with Water New Zealand, the International Water Association, and the Australasian Association for Engineering Education. My work also includes a strong focus on diversity and inclusion in STEM, with a commitment to creating equitable pathways and fostering inclusive learning and professional environments.

What keeps you busy outside of Media Arts?