About the Project
This project is one of a number that are in competition for funding from the Red-ALERT CDT for entry in September 2025.
Overview of the Research:
Rivers are very dynamic systems. Run-off, sewer overflows and wastewater effluents have large water quality impacts. In this project you will develop a model that can simulate water quality dynamics for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and organic micropollutants in high temporal and spatial resolution for the Cam and Wellow catchment area near the city of Bath, UK. The model will provide insights in biochemical processes in the river that influence the pollutant loads and concentrations in the river water.
A model developed for the River Frome in Dorset will serve as a starting point. This model accurately simulates diurnal variation of oxygen and nitrogen compounds in the water under baseflow conditions. Also source apportionments for nitrate from the upstream catchment, sewage effluent and springs are simulated by this model
The Cam and Wellow has less groundwater interaction than the Frome and is runoff dominated. You will assess existing hydrological data for the C&W. To supplement these data you will do a spot-gauging campaign along the rivers. Data will then be used to calibrate and validate the hydrological model. Also, you will collect water quality data in collaboration with Wessex Water. This will include high frequency N, P, alongside physical data such as dissolve oxygen (DO) and temperature (T). Data collection will also connect to the activities of Cohort 1 on the RED ALERT CDT where the focus is on developing omics and sensor tools. Organic micropollutant loads will be predicted from pharmaceutical prescription models and through pesticide use in the catchment. You will use all water quality data as input for the modelling efforts. This should result in a high-resolution in time and space model for water quality in the catchment.
During your PhD, you will receive training on data collection fieldwork (how to prepare a high-quality environmental dataset), hydrological modelling and data interpretation, along with general environmental research skills (research project management, publishing skills etc). You will also work for a significant period (6+ months) seconded at Wessex Water.
The project is interdisciplinary as it brings together disciplines like hydrological modelling, environmental water quality monitoring, organic chemistry, biochemistry, maths, but also connect to sensor development (Cohort 1). The project will potentially closely collaborate and cross-supervised with a similar project in the SAMBa CDT.
Project Keywords: Hydrological modelling, water quality modelling, high resolution, nitrogen, phosphorus, organic micropollutants
Industrial Partner:
Wessex Water are the industrial partner on this project.
Candidate Requirements:
Degree in Chemical, Civil or Environmental Engineering, Experience with hydrological modelling in MIKE or HEC-RAS. Good maths and statistics skills, Willing to take up significant fieldwork.
Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, a First Class or good Upper Second-Class UK Honours degree (or the equivalent) in a relevant subject. A master’s level qualification would also be advantageous.
*Non-UK applicants must meet the programme’s English language requirement prior to a formal offer being made.
Enquiries and Applications:
Formal applications should be submitted via the Red-ALERT CDT online application form prior to the closing date of this advert.
Funding Notes
Candidates may be considered for a NERC Red-ALERT studentship tenable for 3.5 years. Funding covers tuition fees, a stipend (ÂŁ19,237 p/a in 2024/5) and access to a training support budget.
References
1. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.watres.2024.121406
2. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejrh.2024.102022
