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January 17, 2025

Professor Faisal Hai elected president of Membrane Society of Australasia

Professor Hai aims to expand the society’s member base and strengthen collaboration across diverse industries that use membrane technology

, from the ¾«¶«´«Ã½ of ¾«¶«´«Ã½’s (UOW), School of Civil, Mining and Environmental Engineering has been elected president of the Membrane Society of Australasia (MSA).

Professor Hai’s journey in membrane science began in Japan at the ¾«¶«´«Ã½ of Tokyo, where he completed his master’s, PhD, and a postdoctoral fellowship funded by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science. Working alongside Professor Kazuo Yamamoto, a pioneer in Membrane Bioreactor Technology, he honed his expertise in wastewater treatment and reuse.

Since joining UOW in 2009, Professor Hai has focused on advanced water and wastewater treatment and resource recovery, applying cutting-edge membrane technologies. His work, along with collaborations with researchers across Australia, led to his involvement with the MSA. In 2019, he was elected as a board director, paving the way for his recent election as president.

As MSA president, Professor Hai aims to expand the society’s member base and strengthen collaboration across diverse industries that use membrane technology.

“Membrane is a type of filtration or separation device, but there’s an opportunity to unify different separation practitioners and researchers under the MSA umbrella,” Professor Hai said.

He also emphasised the importance of strengthening ties between academia, industry, and government to drive innovation and address pressing global challenges.

Professor Hai’s leadership in the MSA is a significant achievement for UOW, highlighting the university’s research contributions.

“I’m delighted to serve as president of MSA, as it not only allows me to make a difference in the field but also brings broader recognition to the research conducted at UOW.

“I hope this encourages my colleagues to engage with professional bodies and communities.”

One of the key challenges Professor Hai identifies is the siloed operation of different branches of membrane experts. He plans to address this through greater collaboration among sectors and industries, particularly in areas like food and beverage, mineral processing, and high-purity applications.

“Academia and industry need to collaborate further to promote broader implementation of these technologies and build closer cooperation within the membrane science community."

Professor Hai sees membrane technology continuing to transform industries such as water treatment, critical mineral processing, and renewable energy.

“Membrane technology will play an essential role in ensuring access to safe water through desalination, recycled water purification, and removal of emerging contaminants. I also foresee its growing importance in energy and mineral sectors.”

Professor Hai encourages students and young researchers to engage with MSA to access mentorship, volunteering opportunities, and funding for early career development.

“We welcome all membrane experts and professionals to join MSA for the invaluable resources and connections it offers.”

For more information on MSA membership and activities, visit .