This exciting fully funded MSc(RES) with a stipend of £20,000 pa, is sponsored by the Severn Trent Water. The research will look at treatment solutions to address the fresh challenges that algae pose to drinking water production due to climate change. This is an experimental project that will investigate the use of cloth filtration and coagulation coupled with clarification (sedimentation, flotation or membranes) to manage the high solids loads that occur during algal blooms. The successful candidate will work closely with Severn Trent Water to translate the finding from the research onto the operations at the target drinking water treatment works.
Nuisance and harmful algae populations are increasing due to the impacts of climate change. The biggest changes are seen with respect to the blue-green (cyanobacteria) phylum, reflecting their opportunistic behaviour with leads to fast growing rates that have been reported worldwide. As a consequence, in water bodies that are getting warmer, there is increasing evidence that blue-greens are dominating over other algae. This is particularly important as they are associated with toxin release and taste and odour problems, such that there is increased activity in developing treatment solutions, especially at the front of the works to minimise downstream challenges.
An emergingly popular separation technology is the use of pile cloth media filters due to their relative efficacy, low capital cost and low energy use. However, there is no evidence currently available on their performance with algae or the impact on downstream treatment. As such this exciting project aims to be first to deliver evidence of the effectiveness of pile cloth filters and understand the relationship between algae properties and treatment. The same is true for coagulation of emerging algae species and the work will further deliver new data on coagulation of species such as Oscillatoria and Dolichospermum.
This project is a collaboration between Cranfield University and Severn Trent Water that will provide truly novel and crucial data that will support the use of innovative technology for drinking water production at a specific site for Severn Trent Water. At the end of the project the successful applicant will be very well positioned to have a highly successful career in the water sector or in an academic role with experience of research, full scale operation and the translation from one to the other. We will support your development into a dynamic, confident and highly competent researcher with wider transferable skills (communication, project management and leadership) with an international network of colleagues.
At a glance
- Application deadline 19 Feb 2025
- Award type(s)MSc by Research
- Start date24 Mar 2025
- Duration of award1 year
- EligibilityUK
- Reference numberSWEE0286
Entry requirements
Applicants should have a first or second-class UK honours degree or international equivalent in a related discipline. This project would suit in a relevant subject such as chemical engineering, chemistry, environmental engineering, environmental science or other relevant engineering/science degree. The ideal candidate should have some understanding of water science. The candidate should be self-motivated, have good communication skills for regular interaction with other stakeholders, with an interest in applied scientific research.
Funding
To be eligible for this funding, applicants must be classified as a home student. We require that applicants are under no restrictions regarding how long they can stay in the UK.
Sponsored by the Severn Trent Water, this studentship will provide a bursary of £20,000 (tax free) plus fees* for 1 year.
Cranfield Doctoral Network
Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.
How to apply
For further information please contact:
Name: Prof Bruce Jefferson
Email: b.jefferson@cranfield.ac.uk
This vacancy may be filled before the closing date so early application is strongly encouraged.
For further information about application please visit Applying for a research degree.
