CU
Reinforcing nature-based solutions for nutrient control and biodiversity gain - PhD
✓ Funded (Competition)
⏰ Closing Soon
🎓 Climate Science
🎓 Environmental Engineering
🎓 Environmental Sciences
🎓 Hydrology
sustainability
biodiversity
environmental monitoring
hydraulic modelling
nature-based solutions
nutrient removal
phosphorus
wastewater treatment
water infrastructure
wetlands
Fully funded PhD at Cranfield University exploring nature-based solutions for nutrient control and biodiversity. Combines wetland field studies, lab analysis, and modelling to develop sustainable, low-carbon wastewater treatment systems.
Project Description
This fully funded PhD at Cranfield University focuses on enhancing nature-based solutions (NbS) for nutrient control and biodiversity gain in water and wastewater management.
The research centres on integrated constructed wetlands (ICWs) as sustainable alternatives to conventional treatment methods. Using a newly constructed wetland as a case study, the project combines field investigations, laboratory analysis, and hydraulic modelling to evaluate nutrient removal performance and ecosystem benefits.
The project aims to optimise wetland design and operation to improve phosphorus removal, reduce land requirements, and enhance biodiversity outcomes. It will also assess downstream water quality impacts and develop scalable, low-carbon treatment strategies.
Conducted in collaboration with Anglian Water and the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Water Infrastructure and Resilience (WIRe), the research provides direct industry engagement and access to real-world data.
Outcomes will contribute to sustainable water infrastructure, helping utilities transition away from energy-intensive chemical treatments while meeting regulatory requirements and supporting environmental resilience.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should have:
A first or upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, Water Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fields
Knowledge or experience in biological wastewater treatment processes (essential)
Strong analytical and communication skills
Interest in applied environmental research and sustainability
A first or upper second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, Water Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fields
Knowledge or experience in biological wastewater treatment processes (essential)
Strong analytical and communication skills
Interest in applied environmental research and sustainability
How to Apply
Apply via the Cranfield University online application system.
Required documents typically include:
CV
Academic transcripts
Supporting statement
References
For informal enquiries contact:
Dr Tao Lyu – t.lyu@cranfield.ac.uk
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early application is recommended.
Required documents typically include:
CV
Academic transcripts
Supporting statement
References
For informal enquiries contact:
Dr Tao Lyu – t.lyu@cranfield.ac.uk
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early application is recommended.
Eligibility
UK/Home
EU
International
Supervisor Profile
DT
Dr Tao Lyu
Cranfield University, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science
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