PhD Studentship - How Does Saline-mine Water Influence the Fate of Metals in Mining Impacted Catchments?

Increased mining activity is the uncomfortable paradox the world faces to meet energy-transition targets. Metal-bearing mine water is a global environmental issue, with unmanaged discharges capable of causing acute toxic shock to ecosystems and long-lived reductions in water quality, weakening ecosystem services. While most research to date has focused on understanding acidic saline mine water, very little is known about circumneutral saline mine water, the focus of this PhD, despite its widespread occurrence.

The Red River (Cornwall, UK) is a globally relevant natural laboratory for catchments impacted by circumneutral saline mine water, located in a region experiencing a resurgence in critical minerals mining activity. Applying hydro(bio)geochemical approaches, this project aims to answer the overarching question: 'How does saline-mine water influence the fate of metals in mining-impacted catchments?’, and societally-relevant questions such as: 'How can we ensure sustainable water-management solutions in mining areas protect the environment for people and nature?'.

This project will utilise multi-decadal monitoring data, alongside detailed sampling and analysis of waters and sediments within the Red River catchment, to develop hydrogeochemical models for the fate of metals essential to informing catchment-scale management solutions. Training will be provided in field sampling, analytical (bio-)geochemistry, and data analysis including hydrogeochemical modelling.

This project is supported by a diverse supervisory team with strengths in mine water and environmental management (Environment Agency), hydrogeochemistry (British Geological Survey), and (bio-)geochemistry of mineral systems (University of Exeter), enabling the researcher to investigate solutions that fit interest and experience. The researcher will benefit from access to facilities, data and institutional knowledge of these organisations. The researcher will be embedded within the NERC-funded Critical Minerals Challenge Centre, enabling exceptional networking opportunities with industry, NGOs, and policymakers. Researcher will have opportunity to present their work at national and international conferences.

Funding

For eligible students the studentship will cover home tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend.

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