Rapid, Near-the-Source Detection of Key Pathogens in Bathing Waters University of Bath in United Kingdom

This PhD opportunity at the University of Bath’s Centre of Excellence in Water-Based Early-Warning Systems for Health Protection (CWBE) addresses the urgent need for rapid, near-real-time detection of key pathogens in bathing waters. The project is closely aligned with Wessex Water’s mission to protect swimmers and public health, especially during peak recreational seasons. Extensive field investigations at Warleigh Weir, Bath, have highlighted the limitations of current water quality monitoring, which relies on slow, costly laboratory methods and can delay critical information for up to 72 hours.

The research will focus on developing advanced, portable, and power-free microfluidic devices for the detection of pathogens such as E. coli, intestinal enterococci, norovirus, cryptosporidium, Giardia, and Campylobacter. These innovative tools, including low-cost 'dip stick' and 'microfluidic siphon' devices, are designed to culture bacteria or purify DNA/RNA without the need for laboratory infrastructure. Electrochemical detection methods may be incorporated to enhance sensitivity and specificity. The initial phase targets same-day detection of E. coli and enterococci, with expansion to other pathogens flagged by the Chief Medical Officer.

Field-testing will be conducted at multiple sites, including Cam/Wellow Brook, the River Frome at Farleigh Hungerford, and Warleigh Weir on the River Avon. Collaboration with Wessex Water provides access to real-time sensor and laboratory datasets, supporting robust benchmarking of the biosensing technologies. The project aims to:

• Develop near-source microfluidic devices for both phenotypic and genotypic pathogen testing.
• Demonstrate the utility of real-time testing compared to conventional, infrequent lab analysis.
• Benchmark new devices against established microbiological methods.
• Identify optimal sampling frequencies for effective public health protection.
• Integrate sensor data with online platforms for real-time public information.
• Expand detection capabilities to a broader range of waterborne pathogens.

This multidisciplinary project brings together expertise in point-of-care testing (Assoc Prof Nuno M. Reis), water epidemiology (Prof Barbara Kasprzyk-Hordern), and environmental strategy (Dr Ruth Barden). The successful candidate will join a dynamic research environment, contributing to the development of future early warning systems for environmental and public health protection.

Eligibility: Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, a First Class or high Upper Second Class UK Honours degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline. A master’s qualification is advantageous. Non-UK applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements.

Funding: Candidates may be considered for a University of Bath studentship, tenable for 3.5 years, covering tuition fees, an annual stipend (£19,237 for 2024/5), and a training support budget.

Application Window: The deadline for applications is 10 February 2026, but early application is strongly recommended as the position may close sooner if a suitable candidate is found.

How to Apply: Submit your formal application via the University of Bath’s online portal for a PhD in Chemical Engineering. In the 'Funding your studies' section, select 'University of Bath URSA' and quote the project title and lead supervisor’s name. For informal enquiries, contact Dr Nuno Reis at [email protected].

References: Recent publications by the supervisory team underpin the project’s scientific foundation, including advances in microfluidic siphon technology and portable nucleic acid testing for water sources.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: The University of Bath values diversity and encourages applications from under-represented groups. Applicants with circumstances affecting their educational attainment are invited to include a short statement in their application.