Decentralised Wastewater Treatment Systems for removing Emerging Pollutants
Eligibility: UK/International (including EU) graduates with the required entry requirements
Duration: Full-Time – between three and three and a half years fixed term
Application deadline: 15 January 2026
Interview date: Will be confirmed to shortlisted candidates
Start date: May 2026
For further details contact: Dr Anna Bogush
Introduction
Emerging pollutants, such as nano- and microplastics, chemical additives, pharmaceuticals (e.g., antiretrovirals, NSAIDs), and personal care products, are increasingly detected in freshwater systems worldwide, posing risks to ecosystems and human health. Current conventional centralised wastewater treatment systems (WWTPs) are often insufficient in removing these contaminants, highlighting the urgent need for innovative solutions such as Decentralised Wastewater Treatment Systems (DWTSs) using Nature based Solutions (NbS). The use of NbS is being considered more frequently, but there is a lack of knowledge around whether they can efficiently remove emerging pollutants such as some pharmaceuticals, personal care products, nano- and microplastics etc.
Project details
The main goal of this project is to investigate the potential of DWTSs to effectively remove a range of emerging pollutants from wastewater streams. The research will focus on developing analytical methods to analyse emerging pollutants using LC-HRMS, Pyr-GC-MS, FTIR and Raman microscopy/spectroscopy instruments, evaluating system performance of some DWTSs, and modelling pathways of emerging pollutants in selected DWTSs.
This interdisciplinary project will combine analytical and experimental laboratory investigations with modelling approaches to assess removal efficiencies, pollutant behaviour, and long-term sustainability. Advanced analytical techniques will be employed to quantify pollutants before and after treatment, while modelling will provide insights into fate of emerging pollutants, and potential scalability and optimisation of treatment designs.
In addition, the project will engage with policy development by translating scientific findings into practical recommendations for regulatory frameworks and wastewater management strategies. The outcomes will provide critical evidence for integrating DWTSs into sustainable water management.
Funding
Tuition fees and bursary
Benefits
The successful candidate will receive comprehensive research training including technical, personal and professional skills. All researchers at Coventry University (from PhD to Professor) are part of the Doctoral and Researcher College, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.
This PhD project is linked to the EC-funded WATERSENS project, and the PhD candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with the project consortium.
Entry requirements
- A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average.
PLUS
- The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within 3.5 years.
- A minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS academic overall minimum score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component).
Additional requirements
MSc/BSc in chemistry/analytical chemistry/Environmental chemistry
• Experience in laboratory work and instrumental analysis (e.g., LC-MS, GC-MS)
• Strong interest in interdisciplinary research
• Some knowledge of statistics and data analysis
• Some knowledge of modelling/programming
• Ability to work independently and in a team
• Effective time management and organisation skills
How to apply
To find out more about the project, please contact Dr Anna Bogush
All applications require full supporting documentation, a covering letter, plus a 2000-word supporting statement showing how the applicant’s expertise and interests are relevant to the project.
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