AWWA Water Science Author Spotlight: Meeta Pannu

Abstract

Having recently been named an associate editor serving on the AWWA Water Science editorial board, Meeta Pannu answered questions from the publication's editor-in-chief, Kenneth L. Mercer.

Meeta Pannu, recently appointed to the AWWA Water Science editorial board as an associate editor, is a senior scientist at the Orange County Water District, headquarted in Fountain Valley, Calif.

Meeta takes readings at the PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) adsorption pilot-test site located in the Orange County Water District.

My current and recent research projects are primarily located within the OCWD service area, focusing on PFAS treatment and groundwater quality restoration. OCWD oversees a vast groundwater basin that supplies up to 85% of the drinking water for approximately 2.5 million residents in north and central Orange County. Notably, I have been involved in OCWD's PFAS pilot program, which was the largest of its kind in the nation. The program included pilot systems to evaluate the effectiveness of adsorption-based treatment technologies—such as granular activated carbon, ion exchange, and novel materials—and involved testing more than 14 different adsorbents.

Enjoying a cruise on Lake Tahoe.

At Coconino National Forest, in Arizona, with her two boys.

The water industry offers a unique space where I can apply scientific research directly to real-world challenges and help shape the future of sustainable water reuse. This means that the research I conduct isn’t just theoretical—it has immediate, practical applications that improve water quality and quantity for communities.

Combining science, engineering, and public health in research comes with several challenges. One big hurdle is bringing together experts from different fields or agencies who often have different ways of thinking and communicating. It can be tough to balance detailed scientific understanding with practical engineering solutions and the need to protect public health.

Another challenge is dealing with complex environmental issues and uncertainties, especially with new contaminants like PFAS, where there's still a lot to learn.

My favorite research project has been OCWD's PFAS pilot program, which is the largest of its kind in the nation. This project gave me a unique opportunity to work on one of the most urgent and complex issues in the water industry: how to effectively remove PFAS from drinking water sources. As part of the program, we have designed and operated multiple pilot-scale treatment systems to test and compare different adsorption-based technologies, including granular activated carbon, ion exchange, and several novel adsorbents.

What made this project especially rewarding was its direct connection to real-world implementation. The data we generated were used to inform the design of full-scale treatment systems across Orange County.

Being part of a multidisciplinary team—from scientists and engineers to water utility staff and consultants—has made the project even more meaningful. The work was fast, applied, and had a real impact on ensuring the safety of drinking water for millions of people. It's a perfect example of how research can drive innovation and deliver public benefit.

In my free time, I enjoy hiking on California's beautiful trails with my husband and our two boys. We love spending time outdoors as a family, and hiking is a great way for us to stay active and connect with nature. I also enjoy playing basketball with my kids—they’re both passionate about this sport, so it's a fun and energetic way for us to bond.