Investigating the influence of particle-toxicant interactions on toxicant bioavailability and toxicity in a tropical estuarine amphipod of mangrove wetlands

This project investigates how interactions between particles and toxic substances affect bioavailability and toxicity in aquatic environments, focusing on mangrove wetlands. Using the tropical amphipod Parhyale hawaiensis and specially designed test chambers, it will examine how salinity changes influence toxicant-particle associations, crucial for environmental toxicology and ecotoxicity predictions. What You Will Do, You will conduct laboratory and field research employing advanced techniques to study particle-toxicant dynamics and their effects on toxicity in mangrove ecosystems. Collaboration with experienced supervisors and access to mangrove field sites will aid your investigations. Expected Outcomes Outcomes include improved knowledge of particle-toxicant interactions, better predictive ecotoxicity models, and contributions to environmental risk assessments. The research will help identify priorities for ecological protection and pollution management in mangroves. Why It Matters Mangrove wetlands are among the world’s most threatened ecosystems, facing pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss. Understanding particle-toxicant interactions is vital for accurate toxicity predictions, informing conservation strategies and environmental policies at international levels.

Applicants typically should have a first or upper second-class honours degree or equivalent in an appropriate subject and preferably a relevant Masters’ qualification or similar experience. Overseas applicants must meet English language requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall, no less than 6.0 per component; TOEFL minimum scores as specified). This project is available to home and overseas students; international candidates must demonstrate co-funding for the difference in fees (~£20,000/year).

For more information on how to apply, please visit the ECOWILD website: https://ecowild.site.hw.ac.uk/2026-27-projects/. Project specific enquiries: T.Henry@hw.ac.uk. General enquiries: ecowild@hw.ac.uk.