This exciting fully funded PhD, with an enhanced stipend of £24,000 pa, is sponsored by the UK Water Research Industry (UKWIR) and EPSRC. The research will look at treatment solutions to address the challenge that algae and algae-derived micropollutants pose to drinking water production. This is an experimental project that will investigate the use of new ozone systems using microbubbles and nanobubbles to mitigate algae and associated water quality risks. The successful candidate will work closely with UKWIR to deliver the outputs of the project, will have the opportunity to undertake an international placement and access to a bespoke training programme.
Occurrences of freshwater harmful algal blooms are increasing globally due to increased nutrient input in water bodies and changing climate patterns. In the UK and worldwide, the presence of algal blooms has even been detected on water sources that have historically not suffered from this challenge. Reservoirs are particularly vulnerable and are linked to the detection of cyanotoxins and associated taste and odour issues. Furthermore, little information is known about the contribution of algal organic matter to the formation of disinfection by-products.
Ozone is a well-established process in drinking water treatment, which has been widely used to mitigate algae and taste and odour risks. However, the contribution of conventional ozone systems to the electrical energy consumption of drinking water production can reach up to 24%. To overcome this challenge, new, cost-effective technology such as microbubble and nanobubble ozone systems have been developed in recent years and are now available. The aim of the project is to investigate the benefits of using ozone systems using microbubbles and nanobubbles to mitigate algae-derived risks in drinking water and the impact of treatment on water quality.
The outcomes of this project will support a more resilient drinking water treatment by providing a robust framework to tackle algal challenges. The outputs of the research will provide water companies with a better understanding of the efficiency of microbubble ozone systems for algal applications. This, in turn, will allow for optimisation opportunities and will provide the necessary information to do a cost-benefit analysis of the opportunities provided by microbubble ozone versus conventional systems.
This project is an exciting collaboration between 探花精选, UKWIR and EPSRC. This project is part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Water Infrastructure and Resilience (WIRe). 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. The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to undertake an international placement. More details of the CDT WIRe at . It is an inclusive and diverse doctoral centre and welcomes applications from all highly motivated individuals, regardless of background, identity or disability.
The industrial partner of this project is the UK Water Research Industry (UKWIR). UKWIR has been positively shaping the UK water industry's future for over 25 years. They facilitate, manage and deliver a strategic programme of research projects for their members, the water companies of the UK and Ireland, to address the key challenges they face ().
At the end of the project the successful applicant will be very well positioned to have a highly successful career in the water sector or in an academic role. We will support your development into a dynamic, confident and highly competent researcher with wider transferable skills (communication, project management and leadership) with an international network of colleagues.
At a glance
- Application deadline26 Mar 2025
- Award type(s)PhD
- Start date29 Sep 2025
- Duration of award4 years
- EligibilityUK, Rest of world
- Reference numberSWEE0282
Supervisor
1st Supervisor: Dr Irene Carra
2nd Supervisor: Dr Tao Lyu and Professor Bruce Jefferson
Entry requirements
Applicants should have a first- or second-class UK honours degree or international equivalent in a related discipline. This project would suit in a relevant subject such as chemical engineering, chemistry, environmental engineering, environmental science or other relevant engineering/science degree. The ideal candidate should have some understanding of water science. The candidate should be self-motivated, have good communication skills for regular interaction with other stakeholders, with an interest in applied scientific research.Funding
This studentship is open to both UK and international applicants. However, we are only permitted to offer a limited number of studentships to applicants from outside the UK. Funded studentships will only be awarded to exceptional candidates due to the competitive nature of the funding.
This fully funded studentship is sponsored by the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Water Infrastructure and Resilience (WIRe) and the UK Water Industry Research (UKWIR), this PhD studentship will provide a bursary of £24,000 (tax free) and cover registration fees for four years.
探花精选 Doctoral Network
Research students at 探花精选 benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the 探花精选 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 Irene Carra
Email: irene.carra@cranfield.ac.uk
This vacancy may be filled before the closing date so early application is strongly encouraged.
For further information about application please visit Applying for a research degree.
