At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate and develop solutions for removing 'forever chemicals' from drinking water.
- Company: Join the CDT WIRe, a leader in water research at top universities.
- Benefits: Fully funded PhD, training in environmental chemistry, and opportunities for international placements.
- Other info: Collaborate with leading researchers and gain access to world-class facilities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental issues and safeguard drinking water for future generations.
- Qualifications: Open to all disciplines; curiosity and enthusiasm are key!
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
Employer CDT WIRe (Centre for Doctoral Training in Water Infrastructure and Resilience) is funded by EPSRC and run by three world-leading water research groups at internationally‑renowned universities.
This fully funded PhD studentship tackles the urgent challenge of PFAS ("forever chemicals") in drinking water. The project will investigate PFAS removal by activated carbon (GAC) using laboratory experiments and will use the findings to develop simple tools to predict treatment performance and improve drinking water protection.
Responsibilities
- Investigate PFAS removal by GAC in laboratory experiments.
- Use experimental findings to develop practical predictive tools that enable water companies to predict when treatment performance will decline and make better decisions on GAC replacement.
- Explore how the chemical properties of different PFAS and the composition of the water influence treatment performance and operational lifetime.
- Contribute to the development of more effective and sustainable solutions for safeguarding drinking water.
Qualifications and Interests
Applicants from a broad range of disciplines (environmental science, environmental engineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science and related subjects) are welcomed. Previous experience in water treatment or modelling is not required; curiosity, enthusiasm and a desire to solve real‑world environmental problems are the most important qualities. The position is open to applicants with UK Home status.
Training and Benefits
Training will be provided in environmental chemistry, laboratory experimentation, advanced chemical analysis and data interpretation. Students will work closely with leading researchers and water industry partners, and will have opportunities for overseas travel and access to world‑leading experimental facilities. Students may undertake an international placement. The candidate will be based at Cranfield University and the project is part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (WIRe), which includes a bespoke four‑year doctoral training programme in technical and personal skills development.
Removing forever chemicals from drinking water - PhD studentship in Cranfield employer: European Geosciences Union
Joining the CDT WIRe at Cranfield University offers a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research addressing critical environmental challenges, such as PFAS contamination in drinking water. With a strong emphasis on personal and professional development, students benefit from comprehensive training, collaboration with leading experts, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, all within a supportive and innovative work culture that values curiosity and problem-solving. This fully funded PhD studentship not only contributes to meaningful solutions for global water safety but also opens doors for international experiences and career advancement in the water sector.
Contact Details:
European Geosciences Union Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Removing forever chemicals from drinking water - PhD studentship in Cranfield
✨Get Hands-On Experiential Learning
As a trainee in environmental engineering tech, seek out opportunities for internships or volunteer work in green projects. Practising your skills in real-world settings not only boosts your CV but shows employers like European Geosciences Union that you’re genuinely passionate about making a difference.
✨Join Environmental Tech Forums and Meetups
Connect with folks in your industry by participating in local environmental tech meetups or online forums. These spaces are buzzing with ideas and opportunities, and it’s a great way to get your name out there—word of mouth can lead to unexpected trainee roles, like the ones at European Geosciences Union.
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you're still studying or recently graduated, leverage your university’s career services. They often have exclusive listings for trainee positions and can connect you with alumni who are already working in the environmental sector. You might even find a friendly face at European Geosciences Union!
✨Follow Up After Applications
After you’ve applied, don’t be shy—reach out to European Geosciences Union directly to express your enthusiasm. A simple email can make you stand out. It shows you’re proactive and genuinely interested in the trainee position. Trust us, it can work wonders!
We think you need these skills to ace Removing forever chemicals from drinking water - PhD studentship in Cranfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Projects:In the environmental engineering tech field, it's super valuable to highlight any relevant projects you've worked on. Whether it's a university project or a side gig, throwing in specific details about your contributions and the outcomes can really catch the eye of European Geosciences Union.
Get Technical with Your Skills:Make sure to list technical skills that are applicable to environmental engineering tech. This could be software like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or any environmental modelling tools you're familiar with. Tailor your CV to show us how your skills align perfectly with what European Geosciences Union is looking for.
Passion for Sustainability is Key:When you’re writing your cover letter, don’t hold back on your passion for sustainability and environmental issues. As a trainee, we want to see your enthusiasm and eagerness to learn. Share any experiences that highlight your commitment to making a difference in this field.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've earned any certifications that are relevant to environmental engineering, definitely include those! Even if they’re online courses or workshops, they show that you're proactive about your learning and keen to build a career in this field. We love to see that kind of initiative at European Geosciences Union.
How to prepare for a job interview at European Geosciences Union
✨Show Your Passion for the Environment
When you're heading into an interview for a trainee role in environmental engineering tech, make sure to share why you’re passionate about sustainability and environmental solutions. We want to see your genuine interest in the field, so bring up projects or initiatives you've been involved with, even if they're just from your studies!
✨Brush Up on Relevant Tools and Software
Expect to discuss tools that are commonly used in environmental engineering, like AutoCAD or GIS systems. Familiarise yourself with the basics of these platforms, as you might face technical questions about their applications. We recommend having a specific example ready to showcase your understanding of how these tools can be leveraged in real-world scenarios.
✨Prepare for Scenario-based Questions
In a trainee interview, you might come across situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. They may ask you how you would approach an environmental issue or manage a project under tight deadlines. Think through potential scenarios and how you'd handle them, showing your analytical thinking and ability to adapt!
✨Emphasise Your Willingness to Learn
As a trainee, the interviewers at European Geosciences Union will be looking for your potential to grow. Be ready to discuss what you're keen to learn in the role and how you’re planning to develop your skills in environmental engineering tech. We suggest mentioning any relevant courses or certifications you’re considering to show that you’re proactive about your personal and professional growth.
