Anna Bogush

Coventry University is offering a fully-funded PhD position focused on "Decentralised Wastewater Treatment Systems for removing Emerging Pollutants." This interdisciplinary project is linked to the EC-funded WATERSENS project and provides the opportunity to collaborate with international partners. The research addresses the urgent need for innovative solutions to remove emerging pollutants—such as nano- and microplastics, chemical additives, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products—from wastewater streams, which are increasingly detected in freshwater systems and pose risks to ecosystems and human health. The project will investigate the effectiveness of Decentralised Wastewater Treatment Systems (DWTSs), particularly those using Nature based Solutions (NbS), in removing a range of emerging pollutants. Research activities will include developing and applying advanced analytical methods (LC-HRMS, Pyr-GC-MS, FTIR, Raman microscopy/spectroscopy), evaluating system performance, and modelling pollutant pathways. The work will combine laboratory investigations with modelling approaches to assess removal efficiencies, pollutant behaviour, and the long-term sustainability of DWTSs. The project also aims to inform policy by translating scientific findings into practical recommendations for regulatory frameworks and sustainable water management strategies. The successful candidate will receive comprehensive research training, including technical, personal, and professional skills development, and will be part of the Doctoral and Researcher College at Coventry University. The position is fully funded, covering tuition fees and providing a bursary. Applicants must have at least a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline (chemistry, analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry), experience in laboratory work and instrumental analysis, and meet English language requirements (IELTS 7.0 overall, minimum 6.5 in each component). Additional skills in statistics, data analysis, modelling/programming, and effective time management are desirable. The application deadline is 15 January 2026, with the start date in May 2026. To apply, submit your application through the Coventry University portal, including all supporting documents, a covering letter, and a 2000-word supporting statement. For further details, contact Dr Anna Bogush.

Fully funded PhD opportunity in microplastics, PET packaging, environmental chemistry, polymer science, toxicology, and social science at Coventry University in collaboration with Deakin University (cotutelle arrangement). The project is titled “Microplastics and chemical additives from virgin and recycled Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging material: Leachability, toxicity, and behavioural aspects” . The research is interdisciplinary and combines three linked work packages: (1) comparative analysis of leachability of microplastics and chemical additives from virgin PET and recycled PET, (2) toxicity investigation of microplastics and additives on human health, and (3) a social study on consumer perceptions of risks associated with virgin and recycled PET packaging. The project spans environmental analysis, toxicology, and behavioural research, with training across two universities in the UK and Australia. Funding: tuition fees and stipend are included. The studentship also covers one return economy airfare to GITAM/Coventry University, visa, and overseas healthcare for the mobility period. The successful candidate will receive comprehensive research training and support through the Doctoral and Researcher College. Eligibility highlights: UK, international, and EU applicants are eligible. Applicants must meet both Coventry University and Deakin University entry and scholarship criteria. A strong academic record is required, typically top 15% of the cohort, with a relevant high 2:1 or equivalent, or a relevant Bachelor's degree with a substantial research component, or a Master's degree with Distinction and a strong thesis mark. IELTS 7.0 overall with 6.5 in each component is required. Preferred experience includes chemistry or environmental chemistry, laboratory work, instrumental analysis (FTIR, Raman, LC-MS, GC-MS), statistics, and data analysis. Deadline: 7 May 2026. Start date: September 2026. Duration: 3 to 3.5 years full-time. To apply, contact Associate Professor Anna Bogush for project details and submit the required application materials to Coventry University, including a covering letter and a 2000-word supporting statement showing how your background fits the project.