Dr. Pruden, University Distinguished Professor in the Charles E. Via, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and the W. Thomas Rice Professor of Engineering, is a pioneering environmental engineering professor whose research helped define antibiotic resistance genes and waterborne pathogens as critical environmental and public health concerns. Her work has influenced global policy, national guidance, and real‑world crisis response.

Her journey began two decades ago, when she started testing rivers and streams for antibiotic resistance and realizing that wastewater effluent and farm runoff can elevate the levels in the water.

More recently, Pruden and her team began developing environmental surveillance tools to help keep a pulse of the spread of antibiotic resistance, identify drivers, and potential mitigation measures. According to Pruden, it is estimated given the current trajectory that deaths caused by antimicrobial resistance will eclipse those from cancer by 2050.

Pruden is one of five prominent international scientists who co-authored the final report “Bracing for Superbugs,” which included input from more than 50 scientists around the world through a collaborative process. This report provides an urgently needed road map to help policymakers understand and implement effective action plans for combating antimicrobial resistance.

As a fellow of the International Water Association, Pruden actively works to promote education and awareness around topics related to water quality and sustainability.