This fully funded PhD position at the University of Exeter, through the NERC RED-ALERT Centre for Doctoral Training, offers an exciting opportunity to develop automated, inline sensors for real-time monitoring of metal pollutants in freshwater environments. The project addresses the current limitations in quantifying dissolved metal pollutants, which often require slow and labor-intensive sampling and laboratory analysis. By developing submerged sensing devices capable of frequent, automated measurements of specific metal cation concentrations, this research aims to revolutionize environmental monitoring.

The core of the project involves the design, synthesis, and evaluation of novel organic sensor molecules that change color and charge upon exposure to target metals. These molecules will be immobilized on support materials such as polymers, glass, gold, or graphene, enabling near-continuous analytical measurements. The project will also focus on fabricating sensor devices that incorporate metal-responsive surfaces and miniaturized analytical equipment, with performance evaluated in both model and real freshwater environments.

Training will be interdisciplinary, involving collaboration with aquatic ecophysiologists, ecotoxicologists, biosensor researchers, and environmental organizations, as well as the Centre for Resilience in Environment, Water and Waste (CREWW). The successful candidate will receive extensive training in synthetic organic chemistry, with additional opportunities for secondment at the industrial partner’s Southampton premises, gaining experience in production and lab-on-chip fabrication. Training in intellectual property management and commercialization of environmental technology is also included.

Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, a First Class or good Upper Second-Class UK Honours degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry or a closely related subject with significant chemistry content. Experience in organic synthesis, a multidisciplinary mindset, and strong communication skills are essential. Desirable skills include experience in sensors, photoswitches, metal coordination chemistry, binding studies, analytical chemistry, polymer chemistry, and small-scale device fabrication. A master’s degree is advantageous. Non-UK applicants must meet English language requirements.

The NERC Red-ALERT studentship provides funding for 3.5 years, covering tuition fees, a stipend (£20,780 per annum in 2025/6), and a training support budget. The project is open for entry in September 2026, and applications from under-represented groups are encouraged. The deadline for applications is January 19, 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the project link or contact the supervisors or industrial partner.