PhD Studentship: Smart data prediction of forever chemicals concentrations for real-world drinking water treatment

This exciting fully funded PhD, will address the challenge of forever chemicals in drinking water. The aim of this research is to develop a smart data predictive model that will support utilities’ evidence-based decision-making to improve the resilience and cost-effectiveness of forever chemicals removal from water. The model will use experimental data gathered during the project through testing. The successful candidate will work closely with the project sponsors to deliver the outputs and will have access to a bespoke training programme.

This project will deliver a model that integrates water quality to predict PFAS behaviour in GAC filters. The model will give water companies a practical tool to forecast GAC bed life under different water qualities, reduce monitoring burden, and enable proactive, cost-effective compliance with future PFAS standards.

The aim of this research is to develop a mechanistic-driven multicomponent model to predict PFAS breakthrough in GAC.

This project is an exciting collaboration between the Cranfield Water Science Institute, Anglian Water, Thames Water, Yorkshire Water and Northumbrian Water and EPSRC. This project is part of the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Water Infrastructure and Resilience (WIRe). The WIRe programme includes a bespoke training programme in technical and personal skills development, and provides opportunities for overseas travel and access to world leading experimental facilities. The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to undertake an international placement. It is an inclusive and diverse doctoral centre and welcomes applications from all highly motivated individuals, regardless of background, identity or disability.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a first- or second-class UK honours degree or international equivalent in a related discipline. This project would suit applicants with degrees in a relevant subject such as chemical engineering, chemistry, environmental engineering, environmental science or other relevant engineering/science degree. The ideal candidate should have some understanding of water science. The candidate should be self-motivated, driven, have good communication skills for regular interaction with other stakeholders, with an interest in applied scientific research. Modelling skills are desirable.

Funding

This studentship is open to both Home and Overseas fee status students, however we are only permitted to offer a limited number of studentships to students with Overseas fee status.

Sponsored by the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Water Infrastructure and Resilience (WIRe) and the UK Water Industry Research (UKWIR), this PhD studentship will provide a bursary of £25,726 (tax free) and covers registration fees for four years.

Fee status: Home and Overseas

Duration of Award *:  4 years

1^st Supervisor: Dr Irene Carra   

2^nd Supervisor: Prof Peter Jarvis

Opportunity Reference No: CRAN-0053

Start date: 28/09/2026   

How to apply

For further information: Dr Irene Carra

Email: irene.carra@cranfield.ac.uk

If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the online application form.

For information about applications please contact: study@cranfield.ac.uk

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