As a young researcher, former BSSC student Dr Simon McIlroy is already considered an expert in the field of microbiology of wastewater treatment systems.
Currently based at Aalborg University, Denmark, Simon has dedicated his research career to the study of the microbiology of wastewater treatment systems and also bioenergy systems.
He has made several important discoveries, including the first genome sequences from several organisms important to wastewater treatment and the very first physiological information from a previously uncharacterised bacterial phylum.
While studying at La Trobe University Bendigo, Simon was recognised with the David Myers University Medal for the most outstanding student in the Faculty of Regional Development, Bendigo campus.
In 2015, he received a Sapere Aude Research Talent Award from the Danish Research Council. The award included $100,000 AUD for his research and was presented by the Danish Minister for Research and Innovation at a ceremony attended by Crown Princess Mary of Denmark.
Simon has published more than 30 research articles in international peer reviewed journals, with an impressive 16 published from his time as a PhD student, and contributed to several scholarly book chapters.