Near-Source Sensing of Chemical and Pathogen Markers in Wastewater University of Bath in United Kingdom

This PhD project at the University of Bath focuses on the development of advanced near-source sensing systems for chemical and pathogen markers in wastewater, contributing to water-based epidemiology and public health protection. The research aims to address key challenges in real-time tracking of pathogens and chemicals at wastewater treatment plants and near-source locations such as hospitals, universities, prisons, and care homes. The project will explore secure and safe sample collection using existing wastewater infrastructure and investigate the detection capabilities of membrane sensors and separators within a single sampling system.

Current water sampling methods are sporadic and influenced by factors like flow rate, temperature, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and pH, which are difficult to measure concurrently. The innovative approach of this project combines multiple environmental sensors (temperature, EC, DO, pH) with pathogen detection, flow rate, and turbidity to create a unique fingerprint of water quality, providing geo-tagged and temporal data relevant to public health.

The objective is to design and deploy a combined water sampling and sensing system in various locations, including outlets, pipes, and water courses. The hardware will be integrated with existing wastewater infrastructure, featuring hygienic and secure interfaces and a debris-filtering outlet to ensure sensor reliability. Membrane sensors will utilize biomarker capture materials such as polymers, enabling in-situ extraction of chemical markers (illicit drugs, pharmaceuticals, disease biomarkers) and pathogen identification. The system will be validated in real-world environments, with regular local samples analyzed in the lab.

This studentship is part of the Centre of Excellence in Water-Based Early-Warning Systems for Health Protection (CWBE) at the University of Bath. The project offers the opportunity to join a dynamic research environment dedicated to developing future early warning systems for environmental and public health protection.

Funding: Candidates may be considered for a University of Bath studentship tenable for 3.5 years, covering tuition fees, a stipend (£20,780 per annum in 2025/6), and access to a training support budget.

Eligibility: Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, a First Class or high Upper Second Class UK Honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject. A master’s level qualification is advantageous. Non-UK applicants must meet the English language requirement by the application deadline.

Application Process: Submit a formal application via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Electronic and Electrical Engineering. In the 'Funding your studies' section, select 'University of Bath URSA' as the studentship. In the 'Your PhD project' section, quote the project title and lead supervisor's name. For informal enquiries, contact Prof Pedro Estrela at [email protected].

The University of Bath values diversity and inclusion, welcoming applications from under-represented groups. If you have circumstances affecting your educational attainment, you are encouraged to mention them in your application.