D Jones

This fully funded PhD project, part of the NERC RED-ALERT Centre for Doctoral Training at Cardiff University, aims to develop novel, real-time, rapid, and highly sensitive methods for detecting viruses in water and wastewater. The research addresses a critical need for improved virus detection technologies, especially in the context of wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE), which has gained prominence since the COVID-19 pandemic. Current molecular detection methods, such as qPCR and sequencing, are well established but often lack the ability to determine virus infectivity and are not always rapid or sensitive enough for real-time monitoring. The project will focus on the use of nanodiamond-coated quartz microfiber membranes to concentrate virions from water samples, combined with nanobody biosensors (carbon nanotubules with capsid-specific antibodies) for the detection of infectious virus particles. Norovirus, a major contributor to foodborne illness and healthcare costs worldwide, will be the primary target, leveraging nanobodies already developed by the research group. The approach will be benchmarked against conventional molecular detection techniques, with the goal of enhancing both speed and sensitivity. Students will receive comprehensive training in molecular and environmental microbiology, virology, biochemistry, and relevant aspects of ecology and One Health. The project is highly interdisciplinary, involving collaboration between the Schools of Biosciences, Physics, and the Water Research Institute at Cardiff University, as well as the School of Environmental & Natural Sciences at Bangor University. Industrial partnership and expert support are provided by Dŵr Cymru/Welsh Water. Facilities include access to state-of-the-art laboratories, high-performance computing, and the School’s Technology Hubs. The successful candidate will join a vibrant postgraduate research community within the Organisms & Environment Division and the Microbiomes, Microbes & Bioinformatics Research Group. Funding: The NERC Red-ALERT studentship covers tuition fees, a stipend of £20,780 per annum (2025/6), and a training support budget for 3.5 years. Eligibility: 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. Non-UK applicants must meet the English language requirements. The Centre values diversity and encourages applications from under-represented groups. Application deadline: 19 January 2026. Applications must be submitted via the Red-ALERT CDT online application form. For further details, see the official project page.

This fully funded PhD opportunity at Cardiff University, through the NERC RED-ALERT Centre for Doctoral Training, focuses on investigating the sources, transport, and decay of Norovirus in the Rivers Taff and Ely, as well as Cardiff Bay. The project addresses the growing global public health challenge posed by enteric viruses in natural water systems, with Norovirus being a significant concern due to its high infectivity and resistance to treatment. Recent outbreaks, including those linked to major sporting events and local water bodies, highlight the urgent need for research in this area. The successful candidate will employ a combination of field monitoring, water sampling (in collaboration with Cardiff Harbour Authority), advanced 2D and 3D hydro-epidemiological modelling, and artificial intelligence (AI) prediction techniques. The research will explore how viruses travel from their sources into receiving waters, the influence of environmental conditions on virus stability and persistence, and the identification of high-risk public exposure sites, particularly those used for recreation. The findings are expected to inform early warning systems and water safety management strategies, supporting water managers in protecting public health and enhancing urban water resilience. This interdisciplinary project brings together expertise from civil engineering and environmental science, with Cardiff University leading hydro-epidemiological and AI modelling, and Bangor University contributing to virus monitoring and public health modelling. The student will gain advanced skills in environmental data collection, hydrodynamic and epidemiological modelling, AI methods, and high-performance computing, with training and mentorship from leading experts. There will also be opportunities to work directly with industry, government, and environmental regulators. 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, biochemistry, or related fields. A master’s degree is advantageous, and significant relevant non-academic experience will be considered. Non-UK applicants must meet the English language requirements. The university values diversity and encourages applications from under-represented groups. The NERC Red-ALERT studentship provides funding for 3.5 years, covering tuition fees, a stipend (£20,780 per annum in 2025/6), and a training support budget. Applications should be submitted via the Red-ALERT CDT online application form by January 19, 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the project webpage.