Novel geochemical systems for phosphate removal and recovery from wastewater

Phosphorus (P), in the form of various phosphate compounds, is the target of ever more stringent environmental regulation because of its role as a growth limiting nutrient in river systems. New treatment systems are required for the removal of phosphorus from wastewaters. Furthermore technologies that lead to P recovery and recycling are important as global P resources for fertilizer production dwindle. The PhD will help in the understanding and development of two novel technological approaches to capture and recover P from wastewater.

The PhD will involve field trials at a Dwr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW) field site close to Cardiff alongside laboratory experimentation in the School of Engineering to geochemically characterise solid materials and determine mechanisms of P removal occurring in the systems. The research will focus on quantifying and optimising the operating parameters for the systems and determining (bio)geochemical mechanisms controlling P removal.

Candidates should hold or expect to gain a first class degree or a good 2.1 (or their equivalent) and preferably a Masters in Environmental Engineering, or related disciplines such as Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or Earth Sciences/Geochemistry.

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent)