AWWA Dr. James K. Edzwald Scholarship

About this scholarship

The AWWA Dr. James K. Edzwald Scholarship awards $6,000 to an outstanding graduate student researching how climate change affects water quality and treatment or how treatment systems can become more resilient. Eligible topics include algae and cyanobacteria, natural organic matter, contaminants of emerging concern, climate-driven water-quality change, and practical treatment responses for drinking-water supplies. Preference goes to applicants whose materials show a clear career goal of serving the water field. The scholarship is part of the American Water Works Association Water Equation portfolio, and applicants use one shared AwardSpring portal for the 2027–2028 cycle. AWWA membership is not required, but applicants must be permanent residents of the United States, Canada, or Mexico. Selection is merit-based, with academic performance, the quality and relevance of the proposed work, and strong faculty or professional recommendations carrying significant weight. Research proposals may not exceed five pages, and every recommendation must arrive before the portal closes. Funds are sent directly to the recipient’s school for permitted education costs, including tuition, books, laboratory fees or equipment, and conference registration. The verified deadline is November 6, 2026.

Eligibility

• Be a graduate student conducting research relevant to drinking-water quality or treatment
• Be a permanent resident of the United States, Canada, or Mexico
• Focus on climate-change effects, resilient treatment, algae or cyanobacteria, natural organic matter, or emerging contaminants
• Demonstrate strong academic merit and a credible research plan
• Explain career goals and, preferably, a commitment to serving the water field
• Keep the submitted research proposal within AWWA’s five-page maximum
• Ensure all recommendation letters are received before the application deadline
• Complete the AwardSpring application by November 6, 2026