PhD in Development of Devices for Determining Electrochemically-Active Pollutants in Water: Diazinon as a Case Study (NERC RED-ALERT CDT) University of Bath in United Kingdom

This PhD project, hosted by the University of Bath within the NERC Red-ALERT Centre for Doctoral Training, aims to develop a portable, low-cost device for the rapid in situ detection of electrochemically-active pollutants in water, using diazinon as a case study. Diazinon is a highly toxic organophosphate, and its detection at low concentrations in river water is critical for environmental protection and compliance with freshwater Environmental Quality Standards.

The research will focus on integrating sample pre-concentration using functionalised magnetic beads, advanced electrochemical sensing (such as voltametric methods), and cloud-based data transmission. Key tasks include assessing the toxicity of diazinon to UK freshwater invertebrates, developing and optimising electrochemical sensors, automating analysis and data processing, enhancing detection limits through analyte pre-concentration, adapting the technology for other pollutants, and creating a multiplexed sensor prototype.

This interdisciplinary project merges expertise in electrochemistry, sensor development, basic electronics, ecotoxicology, and technology translation for water pollution assessment. Students will receive comprehensive training in engineering systems, microfluidics, biomolecular immobilisation, device development, ecotoxicology, data analysis, and interdisciplinary communication.

Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, a First Class or good Upper Second-Class UK Honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject such as biomedical engineering, electronic engineering, chemistry, or biochemistry. A master’s degree is advantageous, and non-UK applicants must meet English language requirements. The project is open to diverse candidates and encourages applications from under-represented groups.

Funding is available through the NERC Red-ALERT studentship, covering tuition fees, a stipend (£20,780 p/a in 2025/6), and a training support budget for 3.5 years. The application deadline is January 19, 2026, and applications should be submitted via the Red-ALERT CDT online application form. For more information, visit the project link or contact the industrial partner at [email protected].