Fully Funded Studentship: Investigation of PFAS Occurrence and Transformation in UK Receiving Waters

Brunel University London

Summary

Over 15,000 different per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are currently estimated to exist. For humans, these chemicals have already been linked to several health issues but the risk for environmental health remains poorly understood. Importantly, the C-F bond chemistry confers significant and molecule-specific recalcitrance to natural degradation, as well as concerning potentials for accumulation and toxicity in aquatic organisms.

The Drinking Water Inspectorate has issued actions to water companies which have made detections of PFAS in raw water and set out a tier-based approach for impacted sources. This includes utilising catchment management source, pathway and receptor investigations for all impacted sources and the need to investigate future viability for catchment remediation, in combination with enhanced treatment solutions.

Significant knowledge gaps concerning the fate of PFAS have been identified which stem, in part, from limited monitoring in environmental compartments and the transformation of PFAS, that may also convert into other PFAS, further complicating monitoring and remediation efforts. To address these knowledge gaps, it is critical that monitoring in the field targets for both known and unknown PFAS to identify priority substances. Moreover, investigating how PFAS undergo degradation and/or transformation is important to better interpret monitoring data and understand potential sources of measured PFAS across catchments.

The aim of this project will be to determine the occurrence and transformation of PFAS in surface water and groundwater impacting the environment and drinking water supplies.

Training & Eligibility

This project is an interdisciplinary collaboration between Brunel University of London and Affinity Water. The student will receive extensive multidisciplinary training in techniques to develop a valuable set of technical and theoretical expertise for a successful career as an independent scientist. The work will be approximately a 50:50 split between ‘wet lab’ and computational analysis that will develop the students’ capabilities and skillset in both areas. Importantly, the student will receive training in fieldwork, analytical chemistry and data science.

Candidates must hold an undergraduate degree (1st or 2:1) or equivalent qualification in either an environmental science or analytical science discipline. A Masters qualification in a relevant discipline would be desirable but not essential. Prior experience in data analysis/visualisation, machine learning or analytical chemistry would be beneficial for the position. Applicants who have not been awarded a degree by a University in the UK will be expected to demonstrate English language skills to IELTS 7.0 (minimum 6.0 in any section). Applicants must qualify for Home tuition fees to be considered for this opportunity, more information can be found here: https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/student-advice/find-your-fee-status/.

The studentship offers the minimum London weighted UKRI stipend including full tuition fees for eligible candidates. The duration of the PhD is 4 years.

How to apply

Please submit the documents below to thomas.miller@brunel.ac.uk by 12:00 on 27th February 2026. Interviews will take place in March.

• Your up-to-date CV;
• A one A4 page personal statement setting out why you are a suitable candidate (i.e.: your skills and experience)
• Your Undergraduate/Postgraduate Masters degree certificate(s) and transcript(s)
• Evidence of English language capability to IELTS 7.0 (minimum 6.0 in any section), if applicable
• Names and contact details for two academic referees