Learn the principles, processes, and emerging technologies used to remove phosphorus and nitrogen in wastewater treatment. Build a strong foundation in nutrient removal engineering and then explore advanced approaches for biological nutrient removal (BNR), including side-stream enhanced biological phosphorus removal (S2EBPR), return activated sludge (RAS) fermentation, low dissolved oxygen (low DO) BNR, biofilm systems, granulation, anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox), membranes, and advanced filtration.

The course also examines process monitoring and optimization strategies, including the growing role of digital twins in wastewater treatment. Through practical examples and current industry perspectives, participants will better understand how nutrient removal systems are being designed, intensified, controlled, and improved to meet treatment goals and support more sustainable facility operation.

• Wastewater treatment engineers, operators, supervisors, and utility managers
• Consulting engineers and process specialists
• Regulatory professionals and permitting staff
• Utility staff involved in nutrient removal planning, operations, optimization, or compliance
• Professionals seeking an updated understanding of advanced biological nutrient removal (BNR) technologies and process trends

• Explain the fundamentals of phosphorus and nitrogen removal in wastewater treatment.
• Identify major processes and technologies used in nutrient removal engineering.
• Compare a range of biological nutrient removal (BNR) approaches and configurations.
• Discuss key factors that influence nutrient removal performance, operation, and optimization.
• Recognize emerging trends, tools, and challenges in nutrient removal practice.

This course is part of the Wastewater Systems Certificate. Course may be taken individually as well.

1. Fundamentals of Nutrient Removal Engineering I

2. Fundamentals of Nutrient Removal Engineering II

3. Side-Stream Enhanced Biological Phosphorus Removal (S2EBPR) and Return Activated Sludge (RAS) Fermentation

4. Low Dissolved Oxygen (Low DO) Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR)

5. Biofilm Processes for Nutrient Removal: Integrated Fixed-Film Activated Sludge (IFAS) and Membrane Aerated Biofilm Reactor (MABR)

6. Granulation and Densification in Biological Nutrient Removal Systems

7. Anaerobic Ammonium Oxidation (Anammox) Processes

8. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions and Control in Wastewater Treatment

9. Membranes and Advanced Filtration for Nutrient Removal

10. Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) Optimization and Digital Twins

“Speakers were exceptional. Great diversity, knowledge, and presentational skills.”

“Great presenters, networking, and update about what is going on in the industry.”

“Best program in the country for professional development."

Adib Amini

Adib Amini, Ph.D., PE, ENV SP, BCEE serves as Program Director in the College of Engineering’s Office of Interdisciplinary Professional Programs, with a focus on Water, Wastewater, Stormwater, and Sustainability. Dr. Amini also works with cities and industries as an engineering consultant, with experience in both drinking water and wastewater treatment. Dr. Amini has expertise in sustainability, engineering design, technology innovation, and renewable energy. Dr. Amini’s work has included the design of novel technologies, including on-site energy systems at facilities. He spearheaded the designs for the first wastewater treatment facilities in Iowa that are 100% powered by on-site renewable energy systems. Dr. Amini invented a novel system for ventilation of rated spaces, such as wastewater headworks buildings, for which he holds a provisional patent. Dr. Amini also has performed award-winning research in technology innovation and sustainability. Dr. Amini has spoken widely at conferences on topics related to water/wastewater treatment, sustainability, PFAS, on-site energy systems, and resilient infrastructure.

Leon Downing

Dr. Leon Downing is the Global Practice and Technology Leader for Nutrient Removal and Recovery for Black & Veatch from Madison, Wisconsin.  A graduate of the University of Wisconsin – Platteville, Leon received his post-graduate degrees at the University of Notre Dame.  Downing provides technology leadership in support of Black & Veatch process engineering and applied research projects globally.