Occupational exposure of non-exhaust emissions

About the Project

This project is an EPSRC IDLA studentship based in the MRC Toxicology Unit at the University of Cambridge, and with partners at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and the company Emissions Analytics. This studentship is for four years commencing 1st October 2026 (MT26).

As prevalence of electric vehicles increases in the transition to net zero, particulate emission from exhausts have declined significantly. Brake, tyre, and road wear particles have emerged as the dominant source of particulate pollutants from road transport. These non-exhaust emissions pose a growing occupational health risk. This project aims to characterise occupational exposure of the estimated one million affected UK workers (maintenance workers, bus/lorry drivers, delivery staff etc.) via roadside testing and assess associated health risks by undertaking cell exposure campaigns. By performing source apportionment analysis, with the help of machine learning, the data will pinpoint sources of the emissions and subsequently inform mitigation strategies, revolutionising the understanding of the harm of these pollutants. The research aligns with EPSRC’s energy and decarbonisation theme and supports the Engineering Net Zero strategic priority by addressing an overlooked consequence of the electric vehicle transition.

This project requires the student to develop novel, rigorous measurement techniques for a poorly-characterised pollutant source. It demands interdisciplinary thinking across metrology, environmental science, air quality and occupational health which will be reflected through cross-department collaboration. The student will gain expertise in experimental design, novel data analysis, and policy-relevant research, contributing original insights to a high-impact, emerging field.

This project will deliver new measurement methods for occupational exposure to non-exhaust emissions, including validated sampling protocols, uncertainty models, and exposure datasets. These outputs will inform future standards and UK policy on air quality and worker health. The research is high-risk due to the lack of existing frameworks but positions NPL at the forefront of emerging air quality challenges. It meets HRHR criteria by tackling a novel, underexplored area with significant sampling challenges. As EVs shift pollutant profiles, new risks emerge. This work could pioneer measurement approaches, inform regulation, and transform occupational health policy, improving worker protection in a decarbonised transport future.

The studentship will include at least a 3-month placement with NPL (Teddington, London) and benefits from membership of NPL’s post-graduate institute (PGI), accessing training, expertise on metrology and participation in cohort activities and networking events.

Applicants should have a strong background in chemistry or toxicology. Applications are invited from candidates who possess (or expect to gain) a good upper second-class honours MSci or higher degree or equivalent in chemistry, physics, materials science, chemical or mechanical engineering or related areas.

Application Process - All applications will need to be made through the University Application portal: PhD in Biological Science (MRC Toxicology Unit) | Postgraduate Study

Your online application will need to include:

1. Two academic references, to be submitted by the application deadline 5.00pm Monday 11th May. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure the references are in place by the application deadline, otherwise the application may not be processed
2. Academic transcripts
3. CV
4. Statement of interest (max 500 words). Please ensure you explain why you wish to pursue a PhD in this area, outline your research interests and background, and describe the skills and research experiences you will bring to the role within your statement of interest

The application portal may ask for a research proposal, however, since the project is already defined this is not a requirement.

Full applications must be received by 11th May 2026.

Interviews will be held on 27th May 2026.

Informal enquiries can be made to Professor Marion MacFarlane (mm2312@cam.ac.uk)

Funding Notes

This studentship is open to UK citizens or overseas students who meet the UK residency requirements (home fees). Full details of the University's entrance requirements are specified on the following link: View Website

The studentship is for up to 4 years and will provide full coverage of tuition fees at Home rate and an annual tax-free stipend of £22,500 per annum.