A University of Guelph researcher is being honoured for her work safeguarding the world’s water supplies.
Dr. Heather Murphy, professor in the Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, has been named one of Women’s Executive Network’s (WXN) Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Award Winners for 2025. These are Canada’s premier awards for professional women who set a bold example that resonates across all fields and generations.
Murphy, an environmental engineer, has been recognized in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) category for her work improving global access to clean water and reducing waterborne diseases.
“It’s an amazing honour to be recognized among so many outstanding women from diverse backgrounds across Canada,” says Murphy. “I’ve always wanted to do work that helps others. This award is especially meaningful to me because it means my work and mentorship is making a positive impact on peoples’ lives.”
Winners will be honoured at the 23rd annual WXN Top 100 awards gala in Toronto on Nov. 27.
“Dr. Murphy exemplifies the excellence, integrity and impact that define our research community here at U of G,” says Dr. Shayan Sharif, interim vice-president (research and innovation). “Her groundbreaking research on waterborne diseases, along with her dedication to mentorship and her commitment to advocating for inclusivity make her incredibly deserving of this recognition.”
Improving health and reducing waterborne diseases
Murphy is a leading expert on waterborne diseases. A Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in One Health, she explores how pathogens move through water and the environment, and uses this information to develop water and sanitation control measures that protect human and animal health.
“As an applied researcher, I look for problems affecting real people who need solutions,” says Murphy. “There are communities all over the world, in both low- and high-income countries, who lack access to clean drinking water and sanitation facilities, making them vulnerable to diseases that are often preventable.”
Before pursuing academia, Murphy worked with UNICEF in Africa and the Public Health Agency of Canada. Her work has helped improve access to water and sanitation for people in Canada, U.S., India, Mali, Senegal, Nepal, Uganda, Madagascar and Cambodia.
Now, Murphy leads the Water, Health and Applied Microbiology (WHAM) Lab where she is conducting the first trial of its kind examining whether treating well water with UV light can reduce waterborne diseases in children. She also advises government agencies and charities on environmental health issues as a member of several international boards and committees.
Mentoring others and helping women succeed
While she is grateful for her academic career, Murphy says she encountered challenges along the way. These challenges inspire her to break down barriers for other women pursuing STEM careers.
For example, when she was a mother of two young children applying for faculty positions, it was difficult managing childcare around demands that weren’t always flexible.
“I remember when my daughter was 4 weeks old, I was traveling with a breast pump and asking for pumping breaks during interviews,” she says. “So now, when I talk to students about their careers, no topic is off the table. I want to help them prepare for all challenges they might face.”
By leading with authenticity and transparency, Murphy strives to create a sense of belonging on her team. This was evident from the nomination letter by 21 of her current and former female trainees, who wrote: “We have succeeded because of the path Dr. Murphy carved before us and the unwavering support she has provided every step of the way.”
Reflecting on the theme of this year’s award, “Rise Boldly,” Murphy has the following advice for younger women interested in STEM careers: “Start by believing you can do it,” she says.
“Have confidence in your abilities and don’t underestimate what you’re capable of. When it comes to your goals, aim high – higher than you think you can achieve – and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself or negotiate what you need.”
Murphy is a Member of the Royal Society of Canada, College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists, a U of G Research Excellence Awardee and Young Alumnus of Honour in Engineering. She recently participated in Ingenium Canada’s travelling museum exhibition Iron Willed: Women in STEM at the Guelph Civic Museum, sharing her challenges and contributions.
About Women’s Executive Network
WXN is a one-of-a-kind community shaping the future of leadership across North America.
WXN brings together thousands of bold women, allies and corporate members in a rich and diverse ecosystem of professional development, networking, thought leadership, belonging and celebration that propels professional women to rise and lead.
“This year has tested what it means to rise boldly, and our Top 100 Award Winners have shown us what it means to answer the call,” says Sherri Stevens, owner and chief executive officer of WXN. “They’ve turned setbacks into breakthroughs, uncertainty into courage and ambition into real impact. Their achievements light a path for others, proving that strength, confidence and purpose are unstoppable – and that when women rise boldly, they change the whole world around them.”