About the Project
This project is one of a number that are in competition for funding from the Red-ALERT CDT, hosted by the University of Exeter for entry in September 2026.
Overview of the Research:
The prevalence of plastic pollution in environments and its recognition as a planetary boundary threat has led to the growth of biobased and biodegradable polymers as substitutes to petrochemical-based plastics. Bio-based or cellulosic fibres are now widely used in clothing and the manufacture of wet wipes and sanitary products. Emerging evidence suggests these bio-based fibres (both natural and chemically regenerated types) are now often more abundant than petroleum based microplastic fibres in environmental samples, show limited degradation in natural waters and can have comparable ecological impacts to petroleum-derived microfibres. However, these fibres are harder to detect and are not included in most sampling protocols hence their environmental fate, behaviour and ecological effects remain poorly characterised. Bio-based fibres are largely absent from holistic, One Health frameworks for evaluating the health and environmental effects of water pollution as a result, with significant challenges surrounding their incorporation into digital monitoring technologies. With global production of bio-based fibres expected to increase as legislation to reduce plastic pollution comes into force, it is imperative to understand the environmental implications of these alternative materials and develop effective tools for monitoring them.
This PhD will develop forensic approaches for the assessment of bio-based fibres in environmental samples, using novel, high-throughput analytical methods, applying state-of-the-art risk frameworks in combination with ecotoxicology tests to determine how the data generated can be used to predict adverse effects. Key research questions include:
• What factors (composition, dyes, environmental conditions) influence microfibre shedding, movement and degradation of bio-based fibres through the wastewater system and their fate in aquatic environments?
• How does bio-based fibres load affect the ecological toxicity of wastewater and its products?
• How can bio-based fibres be monitored and incorporated into risk assessment frameworks?
These questions are pivotal for the UK’s circular economy transition and for industries investing in “sustainable” fibre materials.
Training:
You will join an award-winning microplastics group based in CREWW (Centre for Resilience in Environment, Water and Waste), and the Aquatic Resources Centre at the University of Exeter. Training will be provided in ecotoxicology (Exeter), chemical fingerprinting (Bath) and wastewater (South West Water), alongside Exeter’s Doctoral College Researcher Development Programme.
Interdisciplinarity:
This studentship encompasses biological ecotoxicology assessment, particle characterisation, analytical water chemistry and circular economy principles, combining detailed laboratory-based analysis and experiments with field-based studies of wastewater and UK rivers. Communication and outreach (policy and educational) will also form an important component of this project.
Project Keywords: Pollution, ecotoxicology, aquatic ecosystems, wastewater
Industrial Partner: David Baldock, South West Water, dbaldock@southwestwater.co.uk
Candidate Requirements:
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 – e.g. biosciences/ biology, ecology, ecotoxicology, chemistry, biochemistry. Academic qualifications are considered alongside significant relevant non-academic experience. 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.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion:
We value a diverse research environment and aim to be an inclusive Centre, where difference is celebrated and respected. We welcome and encourage applications from under-represented groups.
If you have circumstances that you feel we should be aware of that have affected your educational attainment, then please feel free to tell us about it in your application form. The best way to do this is a short paragraph at the end of your personal statement.
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 (ÂŁ20,780 p/a in 2025/6) and access to a training support budget.
