Engineering Solutions for Very Near Source Wastewater-Based Epidemiology in Buildings

Project Overview:

Are you driven to solve complex challenges at the intersection of engineering and public health? We are developing techniques to detect bacteria and viruses in the form of bioaerosols and to use the information to understand trends in disease transmission and prevalence within buildings.

At the Institute of Sustainable Environment (ISBE) at Heriot-Watt University, we are offering an exceptional opportunity for a PhD candidate to explore and address these pressing concerns. This groundbreaking research will investigate the complex interactions between air and water management in building drainage systems, focusing on the fluid dynamic mechanisms driving aerosolisation in turbulent flows. The project will also examine how water chemistry and detergents influence aerosolisation, with additional emphasis on advancing very near source buildings-related wastewater-based epidemiology (BR-WBE) as a tool for public health monitoring.

Central to the research is the development of our patented device that combines public health engineering with environmental monitoring to identify infectious particles. The candidate will have access to world-class facilities, including a custom-designed test site at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh. Cutting-edge technology, such as the Aerodynamic Particle Sizer (APS 3321) funded by EPSRC, will also support this work.

Joining our dynamic, multidisciplinary research group in Public Health and Environmental Engineering, you will be part of a collaborative team dedicated to innovation and excellence. Our supportive environment fosters professional growth and offers extensive opportunities to contribute to influential research publications and engage with industry leaders. In addition to the benefits of completing a PhD study with us there may be opportunities for continuing work in the commercialisation of our patented technology upon completion, this is your chance to contribute to transformative research with global implications, tackling critical issues in public health. Apply today and become part of a team shaping the future of our cities!

Eligibility Criteria:

The Scholarship covers tuition fees (at the UK student rate) and provides a stipend for 42 months. Applications from students who are liable for overseas fees may also be considered, provided there is confirmed funding to cover the additional cost.

The successful candidate should have a strong interest in applied research and possess, at minimum, a good honours degree (BEng or BSc) with a classification of at least 2:1, or preferably a master's degree (MEng or MSc) in one of the following fields:

• Building Services Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Applied Microbiology
• Mechanical Engineering
• Biotechnology
• Environmental Science

Desired Skills and Experience:

• Strong background in environmental engineering, microbiology, or related fields.
• Experience with laboratory techniques and data analysis.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Passion for interdisciplinary research and public health.
• Experience in laboratory-based measurement of wastewater aerosolization processes is advantageous but not essential.

Funding:

This scholarship will cover tuition fees at the home rate and provide an annual stipend (paid in line with UKRI recommended rates, £20,780 in 2025-25) for 42 months. Thereafter, candidates will be expected to pay a continuing affiliation fee (currently £130) whilst they complete writing up their thesis.

Applications from students who are liable for overseas fees may also be considered, provided there is confirmed funding to cover the additional cost (approx £15,000 per annum).

In 2025/26, international fees for this programme are £19,816. Home fees (which are included in the scholarship) are £5,006.

How to Apply:

To apply you must complete our online application form.

Please select PhD Construction as the programme and include the full project title, reference number and supervisor name on your application form. Ensure that all fields marked as ‘required’ are complete.

Once you have entered your personal details, click submit. You will be asked to upload your supporting documents. You must complete the section marked project proposal; provide a supporting statement (1-2 A4 pages) documenting your reasons for applying to this particular project, outlining your suitability and how you would approach the project. You must also upload your CV, a copy of your degree certificate and relevant transcripts and an academic reference in the relevant section of the application form.

You must also provide proof of your ability in the English language (if English is not your mother tongue). We require an IELTS certificate showing an overall score of at least 6.5 with no component scoring less than 6.0, or a TOEFL certificate with an overall score of at least 85, including reading 20, listening 19, speaking 20 and writing 21. Alternatively, if you have received an English-taught Bachelors or Masters degree from one of the countries listed on the UK Government Guidance under ‘Who does not need to prove their knowledge of English’, and it was obtained less than two years from your intended start date, you should provide evidence of your award that clearly states it was delivered and assessed in English language.

Please contact Prof Michael Gormley (M.Gormley@hw.ac.uk) for further information or an informal discussion.

Please contact egis-pgr-apps@hw.ac.uk for technical support with your application.

Timeline:

The closing date for applications is 30th June 2025 and applicants must be available to start by September 2025.

We will review applications as received and may close applications early if a suitable candidate is identified.