CivMin alumna Magdalena Krol wins Research & Innovation Award

Magdalena M. Krol (CivE PhD 1T1) is one of five U of T Engineering alumni honoured at the 2026 Engineering Alumni Network Impact Awards

Left to right: Chris Yip (ChemE 8T8), Dean, U of T Engineering; Isi Caulder (EngSci 8T9, ECE MASc 9T1); Praveen Jain (ECE MASc 8T4, PhD 8T7); Magdalena M. Krol (CivE PhD 1T1); Tony Pialis (ElecE 0T0, MEng 0T2); Ines Fernandez (IndE 0T9+PEY), EAN Council President, celebrate at the EAN Impact Awards dinner held October 1 at Hart House. (photo by Tom Wang)

On October 1, U of T Engineering honoured five exceptional alumni with an evening reception at Hart House. Though their accomplishments span industries, disciplines and generations, they all share a common commitment to using engineering expertise to improve society.

The University of Toronto Engineering Alumni Network (EAN) Impact Awards recognize influential leaders and changemakers whose vision and innovation create positive global change and inspire future generations.

“This year’s award winners are proof that a degree from U of T Engineering is the best preparation for any career path. Each embodies the creativity, talent and innovative spirit that we celebrate in these awards and see reflected across our entire community of alumni,” says Dean Chris Yip.

“On behalf of the entire faculty, I offer my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude for the impact they continue to make.”


Research & Innovation Award 

The Research & Innovation Award recognizes an U of T Engineering graduate or group of graduates who have developed, implemented or discovered an innovation or research program, process or product. The identified work has had a significant impact on the profession, community or society.

Magdalena M. Krol (CivE PhD 1T1) is an environmental engineer and internationally recognized expert in contaminant hydrogeology, whose research addresses critical challenges in groundwater contamination, land remediation, nuclear waste management and clean energy deployment.

An associate professor of civil engineering at York University and founder of the Innovative Water Technology and Energy Research Laboratory, Krol has built a research program that bridges scientific discovery and practical application, securing more than $3 million in direct research funding.

Her work is helping transform underutilized “brownfield” sites into opportunities for housing, business and recreation, while advancing the scientific foundations for the safe long-term storage of used nuclear fuel. She is also a dedicated mentor and advocate for diversity in engineering and is creating lasting impact through innovations that support environmental sustainability and public safety.