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 Bath for entry in September 2026.
Overview of the Research:
Rivers are very dynamic systems. Run-off, sewer overflows and wastewater effluents have large water quality impacts. In this project we 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 (C&W) Living Lab. The model will provide insights in biochemical processes in the river that influence the pollutant loads and concentrations in the river water.
The project will build on a hi-res model developed for the River Frome in Dorset (Tomo Homan; NERC FRESH CDT). Here it was demonstrated that the model could of accurately simulate diurnal variation of nitrogen compounds in the water under baseflow conditions and determine s source apportionments for nitrate from the upstream catchment, sewage effluent and springs.
The Frome model will act as a starting point for building a high-resolution hydrological model for the C&W. The big difference will be that the Frome is a groundwater dominated chalk stream, while the C&W are not. Existing hydrological data for the C&W will be used as much as possible, supplemented by data acquired in a spot-gauging campaign along the rivers, to calibrate and validate the hydrological model. Also, water quality data will be collected 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 and 2 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. Water quality data will be used as input for the modelling efforts. This should result in a high-resolution in time and space model for water quality in the catchment.
Interdisciplinarity:
The project will be multi-disciplinary and will connect the fields of hydrology with environmental science, microbiology, chemistry, pollution and ecotoxicity. And of course modelling cannot do without mathematics and data analysis.
Project Keywords: River water quality; dynamic modelling
Industrial Partner: Wessex Water: Tomo Homan (tomo.homan@wessexwater.co.uk), John Bagnall (john.bagnall@wessexwater.co.uk), Ruth Barden (ruth.barden@wessexwater.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. chemical engineering or environmental engineering. Academic qualifications are considered alongside significant relevant non-academic experience. A master’s level qualification would also be advantageous.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion:
We value a diverse research environment and aim to be an inclusive university, 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 (£20,780 p/a in 2025/6) and access to a training support budget.
