Strategic management of direct process emissions for achieving NET-ZERO in wastewater treatment plants - MSc by research

This MSc by research offers an exciting opportunity to study one of our greatest challenges – climate change mitigation.  Nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent ozone-depleting substance, significantly contributes to climate change with a global warming potential 310 times greater than carbon dioxide Addressing NET-ZERO targets mandates a focused reduction of N2O emissions. The wastewater industry, contributing 108 Mt CO2 equivalent/year, generates 3.2-10.2% of overall N2O emissions. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are key N2O sources during nitrification and denitrification, categorised N2O emissions escalates a plant's carbon footprint by 30%. Efforts in WWTPs are vital for holistic greenhouse gas reduction, mitigating climate change and contributing to achieving NET-ZERO targets.

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) contribute significantly to total N2O emissions, primarily during nitrification and denitrification processes. Nitrous oxide is a direct scope 1 emission, and reducing it is essential. Previous studies have focused on investigating and assessing the effectiveness of various environmental control measures in nitrification and denitrification, including dissolved oxygen levels, temperature, pH, C/N ratio, sludge retention time, to mitigate N2O emissions from wastewater treatment plants. Some of these strategies, including improved instrumentation and control have yield some positive results, but benefits are limited. A novel approach to reducing N2O emissions is through the application of specific microorganisms and metabolic pathways in WWTPs that enable nitrogen management with lower greenhouse gas emissions.

This project aims to identify and test novel microorganisms with the potential to generate lower or consume N2O, thereby reducing overall emissions, in comparison to commonly found microorganisms in activated sludge processes. To verify the scientific hypothesis, lab tests will be completed, resulting in the design and deployment of pilot-scale plant at a large wastewater treatment plant to verify and validate this approach.

Cranfield’s world-class expertise, large-scale facilities and unrivalled industry partnerships is creating leaders in technology and management globally. In the field of Water Science and Engineering, Cranfield Water Sciences Institute (CWSI) is recognised internationally for its research, education, training and consultancy. CWSI offers leading expertise and training on water and sanitation, water policy and governance, modelling, water and wastewater technology and risk management for the water sector. The project sponsor is Severn Trent Water. This is one of the largest of the 10 regulated water and sewerage companies in England and Wales, supplying water to circa 8 million people, and collecting and treating wastewater from circa 9 million people in the Midlands and mid-Wales regions of the UK. This MSc by Research position contributes to a larger project “Catalysing a NET-ZERO Future ” sponsored by OFWAT and working alongside other partners Microvi Biotechnologies, and Jacobs, allowing for wider learning and interaction with the water industry. 

An MSc by research at Cranfield University is an intensive research degree that allows successful candidates to demonstrate their ability to conduct research, whilst benefiting from the support of academic supervisors - this is a 12 month research programme. Cranfield University is well known for its excellence delivering research for the water industry. Our students are a key part of this relationship, often finding careers within the industry, consultancy or academia after completing their studies at Cranfield. As such this MSc by research provides an excellent opportunity for the successful candidate to gain experience on cutting edge applied research and its dissemination into the water sector, providing ideal skills development for future careers within both academia and industry.

At a glance

• Application deadline10 Jan 2024
• Award type(s)MSc by Research
• Start date29 Jan 2024
• Duration of award1 year
• EligibilityUK, EU, Rest of World
• Reference numberSWEE0243

Entry requirements
Applicants should have a first- or second-class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline such as biotechnology, microbiology, chemistry, engineering, or environmental science. The ideal candidate should have some understanding of wastewater analysis, working with lab-scale and pilot-plants whilst following of working under strict health and safety regulations. The candidate should be self-motivated, have excellent oral and written communication skills for regular interaction with other stakeholders, with an interest in applied fundamental and apply scientific research.
Funding

This studentship is open to both UK and international applicants. However, we are only permitted to offer a limited number of studentships to applicants from outside the UK. Funded studentships will only be awarded to exceptional candidates due to the competitive nature of the funding.

This opportunity is open to UK and international students.

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: Professor Ana Soares
Email: [email protected]     

If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the online application form .

Admissions
T: +44 (0)1234 758082
E: [email protected]