Removal of emerging micropollutants from wastewater in biofilm reactors

PhD Supervisor: Yongqiang Liu

Project description:

Emerging micropollutants, encompassing a spectrum from pharmaceutical residues and personal care products to industrial chemicals, have been found in water sources worldwide. Exposure to these contaminants has been linked to adverse health effects, including endocrine disruption, antibiotic resistance, and potential carcinogenicity. Furthermore, the environmental impact is evident in the disruption of aquatic ecosystems, with implications for biodiversity and overall ecosystem health. As these pollutants persist and accumulate, addressing the multifaceted challenges they present has become imperative to safeguard both human well-being and the integrity of our natural environment.

Currently, no water or wastewater treatment plants are designed to target micropollutants, resulting in the presence of persistent micropollutants in drinking water and treated effluent. Therefore, removing micropollutants from water is imperative along with the expected more stringent regulations on micropollutants. Employing biofilm with assembled specialised strains for (co)biodegradation of specific types of micropollutants emerges as a promising and environmentally sustainable approach, which offers a targeted and natural solution, aligning with the principles of green chemistry.

In this project, you will investigate the key microorganisms enabling the breakdown of toxic and recalcitrant organic compounds and develop an effective biofilm with specialized strains embedded or assembled to enhance biological removal of micropollutants. When necessary, it is also expected that physical or chemical treatment could be integrated to further improve the removal efficiency of micropollutants. In the project, you will be trained to set up and operate bioreactors for wastewater treatment, do analysis of both sludge and water by using various analytical instruments, and conduct bioinformatic analysis. 

Candidates with high motivation and degrees in environmental engineering, bioengineering, chemical engineering, microbiology, or other relevant backgrounds are preferred. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with multiple academics and early career researchers in biofilm.

International students with relevant publications or outstanding academic achievement are encouraged to apply, to be considered for the prestigious presidential scholarship scheme, covering full international fees. We strongly encourage applications from EU and UK students, given funding restrictions. Early applications are advised to secure consideration.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact:

Dr. Yongqiang Liu, Water and Environmental Engineering Research Group,

Email: Y.Liu@soton.ac.uk  Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 2843.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: 31 August 2025. 

Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships.

For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton

Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

Apply online by clicking the 'Apply' button, above. 

Select programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”.

In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Yongqiang Liu

Applications should include:

• Research Proposal
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk