A University of Guelph researcher known for her work protecting global water supplies has been named one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Award Winners for 2025 from the Women’s Executive Network.
Dr. Heather Murphy, professor in the Department of Pathobiology at the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph, was recognized in the STEM category for advancing global access to clean water and reducing waterborne diseases. The annual awards honour professional women who set bold examples across sectors and generations.
“It’s an amazing honour to be recognized among so many outstanding women from diverse backgrounds across Canada,” Murphy said in a statement from the University of Guelph. “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.”
Murphy and other winners were celebrated at the Women’s Executive Network (WXN) 23rd annual Top 100 Awards Gala in Toronto on November 27.
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“Dr. Murphy exemplifies the excellence, integrity and impact that define our research community here at U of G,” said 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.”
Murphy, a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in One Health, is a leading expert on how pathogens move through water and the environment. Her work helps shape water and sanitation measures that protect human and animal health in communities worldwide.
“As an applied researcher, I look for problems affecting real people who need solutions,” she said. “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 joining academia, she worked with UNICEF in Africa and with the Public Health Agency of Canada. Her research and advisory work has supported improved water and sanitation access in Canada, the U.S., India, Mali, Senegal, Nepal, Uganda, Madagascar and Cambodia.
Murphy now leads the Water, Health and Applied Microbiology (WHAM) Lab, where she is conducting the first study of its kind on whether UV treatment of well water can reduce waterborne illness in children. She secured $14.2 million in funding for the landmark study, and also serves on international boards and committees focused on environmental health.
A committed mentor, Murphy says her own early-career challenges, including navigating job interviews and travel while caring for two young children, drive her efforts to support women in STEM.
“I remember when my daughter was four weeks old, I was traveling with a breast pump and asking for pumping breaks during interviews,” she said. “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.”
That approach resonated in a nomination letter from 21 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 award’s theme, “Rise Boldly,” Murphy offered this advice to young women interested in STEM: “Start by believing you can do it. 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.”
Women’s Executive Network is a North America–wide community focused on advancing women’s leadership through professional development, networking, thought leadership and celebration.
“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,” said Sherri Stevens, WXN owner and CEO. “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.”
