Investigating Environmental Pollution in India by Contaminants of Emerging Concern Transported in Floodwaters and the Potential of Bioremediation Using Nature-based Solutions Coventry University in United Kingdom

This PhD project investigates the environmental pollution caused by contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) transported in floodwaters, with a focus on Bengaluru, India. CECs, including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and other anthropogenic chemicals, pose significant risks to aquatic environments and human health, especially during urban flood events where their transport and fate are not well understood. Bengaluru's rapid urbanization, land use changes, and drainage challenges have led to frequent flooding, which mobilizes and redistributes contaminants across water, soil, and sediment, creating complex exposure pathways in vulnerable communities.

The project aims to understand how floodwaters transport and redistribute CECs and to evaluate the effectiveness of nature-based solutions—such as vegetated systems, constructed wetlands, and biofilters—for mitigating these pollutants in urban environments. The research will be conducted across two institutions: the first and final years at GITAM in Bengaluru, India, and the second year at Coventry University in the UK. This structure allows for comprehensive field-based research and advanced analytical work using state-of-the-art facilities.

Research activities include field investigations to identify flood-affected areas and contamination hotspots, advanced chemical analysis using liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry, laboratory experiments, and geospatial assessments. The project will develop analytical workflows for targeted, suspect, and non-target analysis to identify both known and previously uncharacterized compounds associated with flood events. Laboratory-scale experiments will assess the performance of nature-based solutions, including native plant species, biofiltration systems, and locally available materials such as biochar and recycled construction waste, for practical, low-cost implementation.

The successful candidate will receive comprehensive research training, including technical, personal, and professional skills development. All researchers at Coventry University are part of the Doctoral College and Centre for Research Capability and Development, which offers high-quality training and career development activities. The project provides an international research experience, with fieldwork in Bengaluru and advanced analytical training at Coventry University.

Funding includes tuition fees and a bursary (stipend). Applicants must have at least a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline, with a minimum 60% in the project element and overall module average, and demonstrate the potential to complete the PhD within 3.5 years. English language proficiency (IELTS 7.0 overall, minimum 6.5 in each component) is required. The application deadline is May 1, 2026.