Dr Rory Coffey graduated with an honours primary degree in Agricultural Science in 2003, he subsequently went on to complete a research masters and PhD in University College Dublin with a focus on Biological Systems Engineering. He is currently working as a Postdoctoral researcher in Ireland. The researcher is requesting funds for 3 years under the guidance of Professor Shane Ward, University College Dublin, Ireland. A two year outgoing phase will be spent working with Dr Mary Leigh Wolfe at the Centre for Watershed Studies, Biological Systems Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, USA. Knowledge acquired during the outgoing phase will be transferred to the EU in year 3 during the return phase when Dr Coffey will rejoin the Bioresources Research Centre at University College Dublin.The overall scientific aim of the project is to apply watershed modelling techniques to integrate the effects of climate change on waterborne pathogenic organisms and transport of such substances to water sources (groundwater and surface water). Ongoing work in these areas is still in its infancy, and the project proposes a bottom-up approach to investigation.As the project progresses, the emphasis will shift from water quality monitoring techniques, theoretical modelling and simulation (relying on third country host expertise) to model development, application and evaluation within the EU (using home institutions expertise). The project will be completed with a view to environmental application and development of new protocols for water source protection (taking advantage of the home institution's experience in training, communication, scientific management, intellectual property, etc.)