Understanding the potential for UV LEDs to be used for disinfection and as an AOP for drinking water treatment – PhD Studentship

Start Date: 1st May 2017
Eligibility: UK, EU

Sponsored by Typhon Treatment Systems, this studentship will provide a bursary of up to £18,000 p.a. (tax free) plus fees* for three years

This PhD aims to understand the potential for UV LEDs to be used for disinfection and as an AOP for drinking water treatment. Working alongside the technology developer, Typhon Treatment Systems, the results obtained from the project will have significant impact in tacklingsome of the most important challenges being faced by the Water Industry.

Ultra Violet Light Emitting Diodes (UV LEDs) are a promising option for the removal of persistent micropollutants in water and for cost-effective disinfection. They offer several advantages over existing UV technologies such as operation at low voltage and from the fact that they don’t contain toxic materials. Further they offer the flexibility of enabling different reactor geometries to be developed. Advances in LED design have the potential to bring about significant progress in UV based treatment of water.

Typhon Treatment Systems have developed new UV-LED technology designed to be used for water disinfection, or in combination with chemicals as an Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP). For disinfection, UV light damages bacteria and other microorganisms DNA, inactivating them, and therefore, can be used as a drinking water disinfection treatment. For AOPs, the combination of UV and certain chemicals can yield radicals which are able to oxidise organic compounds, such as pesticides in drinking water

The student will be based at the Cranfield University, although it is foreseen that the student will have to go on sampling trips and to the industrial sponsor’s base in the North West of England , so holding a valid driving license is essential.

As a part of working in this industrially sponsored project, the student will work in close collaboration with Typhon Treatment Systems and will need to fully engage with the sponsor. As such , strong communication skills will therefore be essential.

About the Cranfield Water Science Institute:
The Cranfield Water Science Institute has an international reputation for its transformational research and teaching in the science, engineering and management of water in the municipal, industrial and natural environments.

We have been working in water for over 40 years. Our academic and research staff, including scientists, engineers, technologists, policy specialists and social scientists are engaged in delivering postgraduate teaching, research, consultancy and training in an international arena.

We deliver a number of MSc programmes and support a large cohort of PhD and EngD research students. We work closely with a range of clients across industry and government helping them to address their water challenges and make a progressive contribution to the green economy. Our ethos is to provide an environment which is intellectually challenging, where research excellence is encouraged and where students, staff and ideas flourish.

Entry requirements:
Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline, such as chemical/civil/general engineering, chemistry, microbiology or biotechnology. The ideal candidate should have some understanding in the area of water treatment and advanced oxidation processes. The candidate should be self-motivated, have good communication skills for regular interaction with the project sponsors and supervisors, with an interest for industrial research and be curious about science.

How to apply:
For further information please contact: Dr. Irene Carra, E: [Email Address Removed], T: (0) 1234 750111 Ext: 3336
If you are eligible to apply for this research studentship, please complete the online application form
For further information contact us today:
School of Energy, Environment and Agrifood
T: 44 (0)1234 758008
E: [Email Address Removed]