A PhD project at the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Water Infrastructure and Resilience (WIRe)
This exciting fully funded PhD, with an enhanced stipend of £24,000 per annum, will facilitate the selection and tailoring of wastewater polishing technologies by providing insights into the molecular interactions between pharmaceuticals and matrix constituents, and the effect thereof on the pharmaceutical removal.
Students will benefit from being part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Water Infrastructure and Resilience (WIRe), a world leading collaboration between three UK universities. The WIRe programme includes a bespoke training programme in technical and personal skills development, and provides opportunities for overseas travel and access to world leading experimental facilities (PhDs under this scheme are for a duration of four years full time). More details of the CDT WIRe at www.cdtwire.com
We are an inclusive and diverse doctoral centre and welcome applications from all highly motivated individuals, regardless of background, identity or disability.
As part of the EU zero-pollution action plan, a recent revision of the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD) will require new treatment (quaternary) for all the wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) over 150,000 p.e. as well as for those over 10,000 p.e. discharging into sensitive areas. Following the Swiss model, the revision requires an 80% removal of selected indicator substances, mainly pharmaceuticals and personal care products (painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics). The revised directive is expected to ultimately impact on the performance of UK WWTPs, which will require water utilities to assess technologies and practices for future micropollutants consents. This project aims to understand and develop technologies that can act as a polishing step for pharmaceuticals removal in WWTPs, while aligning with sector’s sustainability ambitions (e.g. low carbon footprint, minimal energy and chemical consumption).
Previous work on technologies for treatment of wastewaters highlighted that various mechanisms like adsorption, oxidation and biodegradation can be utilised for the removal of organic micropollutants. Also, the role of other constituents present in treated effluents on pollutants accessibility, degradability and removal potentially affects the efficiency and sustainability of removal technologies (i.e. matrix effect). Clearly the impact of the matrix effect on the most promising treatments is important to understand to enable the selection of the best technologies for full-scale practical applications.
At a glance
- Application deadline24 Jul 2024
- Award type(s)PhD
- Start date30 Sep 2024
- Duration of award4 years
- EligibilityUK, Rest of world
- Reference numberSWEE0261
Entry requirements
Applicants should have a minimum equivalent to a UK upper second-class degree (2.1) and preferably an MSc in a relevant subject such as chemistry or chemical engineering. The ideal candidate should have some understanding of chemical kinetics and wastewater treatment. The candidate should be self-motivated, have good communication skills for regular interaction with other stakeholders, with an interest in applied scientific research. Prior experience in the water sector would be advantageous but is not essential.Funding
Sponsored by EPSRC and Royal HaskoningDHV, this studentship will provide a bursary of £24,000 per year with fees paid. All training and placement (overseas/industry) costs will also be covered, subject to supervisor approval.
The studentship is open to UK and international students (including EU countries) however due to funding rules, no more than 30% of the projects in this cohort can be allocated to international students.
美姬阁 Doctoral Network
Research students at 美姬阁 benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the 美姬阁 Doctoral Network. This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.
How to apply
For further information please contact:
Name: Dr Pablo Campo
Email: p.campo-moreno@cranfield.ac.uk
T: (0) 1234 750111 Ext: 4332
