PhD project in Enhancing the efficiency of biological waste treatment with nanobubbles
PhD @University of Southampton posted 1 day agoJob Description
About the project
Nanobubbles, characterised by their unique features, present a compelling opportunity to improve biological treatment process performance and efficiency. This project will investigate the application of nanobubbles in biological waste treatment and their potential for retrofitting existing systems.
Biological processes have long underpinned wastewater treatment and waste management due to their cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability. However, with increasing pressures to achieve net-zero carbon emissions in the water and waste sectors, and the constraints on physical space versus growth in treatment demand, there is an urgent need to enhance the efficiency and resilience of these processes.
Nanobubbles, characterised by their high gas transfer efficiency, prolonged bubble retention time, flexibility of application with multiple gas reactants, elevated zeta potential, and capacity to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), present a compelling opportunity to improve biological treatment process performance and efficiency without reliance on chemical additives.
This project will investigate the role of nanobubbles in modulating the physico-chemical environment of waste streams, Â their subsequent effects on microbial activity and dynamics, and substrate biodegradation, and evaluate the potential for retrofitting existing systems for enhanced efficiency.
Particular attention will be given to how nanobubbles influence microbial metabolism, microbial community structure, and pollutant removal efficiency in biological treatment processes.
The study will be conducted in collaboration with an industrial partner specialising in nanobubble generation, ensuring alignment with real-world operational challenges and technological integration.
This research will provide a scientific basis for optimizing biological treatment processes with nanobubble technology.
The outcomes will contribute to the development of low-carbon, high-efficiency waste treatment strategies, bridging the gap between emerging nanobubble applications and industrial-scale implementation, as well as strategies to enhance the efficiency of existing infrastructure at minimal environmental and capital cost.
Entry requirements
You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent.
Fees and funding
We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and Horizon Europe students.
Horizon Europe fee waivers automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students.
To learn about funding opportunities visit our Doctoral College scholarships and bursaries information.
Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.
How to apply
You need to:
- choose programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
- select Full time or Part time
- choose the relevant PhD in Engineering
- add name of the supervisor in section 2
Applications should include:
- a personal statement
- your CV (resumé)
- 2 reference letters
- degree transcripts to date
Contact us
Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
If you have a general question, email our doctoral college (feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk).
Project leader
For an initial conversation, email Dr Yongqiang Liu
(Y.Liu@soton.ac.uk).
