At a Glance
- Tasks: Pioneer airborne eDNA research and develop innovative monitoring protocols.
- Company: Join a leading-edge PhD project at the University of Hertfordshire.
- Benefits: Hands-on experience, collaboration with top scientists, and opportunities for publication.
- Other info: Collaborate with the National Physical Laboratory and present at international conferences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental protection and biodiversity monitoring.
- Qualifications: Ideal for ambitious biologists or aerosol scientists with relevant skills.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 35000 € per year.
The measurement of airborne eDNA enables the detection and tracking of species in an environment rapidly, non‑invasively, and with great sensitivity. It can also be used to monitor a very large number of species simultaneously, unlike traditional nature surveys, which are performed manually and typically focus on a single species. Airborne eDNA measurements therefore have the potential to revolutionise biodiversity monitoring by providing robust species distribution data to help governments and other stakeholders define policy to address the current rapid decline in biodiversity and assess the performance of measures implemented to halt or reverse biodiversity decline.
Measurements of aqueous eDNA (e.g. in rivers) are now widely used as a tool to monitor the aquatic abundance of fish and other species, but airborne eDNA measurements are much less advanced, and there are no standard sampling or analysis protocols. The game‑changing potential of these measurements has recently been highlighted in a recent paper. Other research aspects include post‑pandemic efforts to develop sampling methods that preserve pathogen integrity and facilitate easy recovery. However, the effects of the nebulisation/sampling of choice on the eDNA are often overlooked.
This PhD will advance the state‑of‑the‑art of airborne eDNA measurements by investigating key metrology aspects that are currently hindering the wider adoption of this technology. Understanding the underlying challenges for reproducible analysis, identification, and quantification of eDNA from the air may drive technological solutions towards consistent and efficient monitoring strategies.
Are you ready to pioneer the future of environmental detection? Join a leading‑edge PhD project investigating the behaviour of airborne environmental DNA (eDNA). As a student, you’ll develop innovative protocols to enhance the accuracy and reproducibility of eDNA monitoring, which is critical for advancing environmental protection and biosecurity. Work hands‑on with state‑of‑the‑art commercial samplers and bespoke nebulisers at University of Hertfordshire facilities and collaborate directly with scientists at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL).
Your fieldwork and controlled release experiments will push the boundaries of aerosol science and deliver real‑world impact by informing the next generation of sampler design. You’ll join a multidisciplinary team, publish in leading journals, present at international conferences, and help shape new documentary standards for eDNA monitoring adopted worldwide. This project is ideal for ambitious biologists or aerosol scientists with skills in bioassays and wet chemistry analytics who are eager to make a tangible difference in environmental technology and policy.
PhD - Metrology and Standardisation of Airborne eDNA (MESA-eDNA) in Teddington employer: National Physical Laboratory
Join the University of Hertfordshire and the National Physical Laboratory in a pioneering PhD project that not only advances your academic career but also contributes significantly to environmental protection and biodiversity monitoring. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, a collaborative work culture, and opportunities for publishing and presenting your research internationally, you will be part of a multidisciplinary team dedicated to making a real-world impact. This role offers a unique chance to develop innovative protocols while being supported in your professional growth within a vibrant academic community.
Contact Detail:
National Physical Laboratory Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD - Metrology and Standardisation of Airborne eDNA (MESA-eDNA) in Teddington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the field of environmental science and eDNA research. Attend conferences, webinars, or local meet-ups to connect with potential collaborators or mentors who can give you insider tips on landing that PhD position.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with faculty or researchers, make sure to express your enthusiasm for airborne eDNA and its impact on biodiversity. Share your ideas on how you could contribute to the project and why it excites you.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the latest research on airborne eDNA. Familiarise yourself with current challenges and advancements in the field. This will not only impress your interviewers but also help you articulate how you can tackle these issues in your PhD.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their applications and eager to join our innovative team.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD - Metrology and Standardisation of Airborne eDNA (MESA-eDNA) in Teddington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the PhD project. We want to see your passion for airborne eDNA and how you can contribute to advancing this exciting field!
Showcase Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to mention any hands-on experience you have with bioassays, wet chemistry analytics, or aerosol science. We’re looking for candidates who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you've done that relates to this project.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Make sure to communicate your ideas effectively without unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Physical Laboratory
✨Know Your eDNA Inside Out
Make sure you understand the fundamentals of airborne eDNA and its significance in biodiversity monitoring. Brush up on recent studies, especially the one highlighting its game-changing potential, so you can discuss how your research interests align with the project.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to talk about your experience with bioassays, wet chemistry analytics, or any relevant lab techniques. Bring examples of past projects where you've used these skills, as this will demonstrate your hands-on capability and readiness for the practical aspects of the PhD.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the project, such as the challenges faced in standardising sampling protocols or the collaboration with the National Physical Laboratory. This shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if the project aligns with your career goals.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Since this is a multidisciplinary project, share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before. Discuss any collaborative research or group projects, emphasising your ability to communicate and contribute effectively in a diverse environment.
