NERC RED-ALERT CDT: Tracking Toxicity: Assessing Pharmaceutical and Pesticide Mixtures in River Ecosystems.

Details

This project is one of a number that are in competition for funding from the Red-ALERT CDT, hosted by Cardiff University for entry in September 2026.

Overview of the Research:

This Case PhD project in partnership with Natural Resources Wales (NRW) offers an exciting opportunity to develop next-generation tools for environmental monitoring by investigating the biological impacts of chemical mixtures in UK river systems. Focusing on the Taff and Ely catchments in Wales, the research will use cutting-edge Effect-Based Methods (EBM) to detect sub-lethal biological responses, such as endocrine disruption, oxidative stress, and genotoxicity in vitro, utilising the rainbow trout gill cell line RTgill-W1. These responses will be analysed using a multi-omics approach, integrating transcriptomics, metabolomics, and cytotoxicity assays to build a broad mechanistic understanding of pollutant effects.

Environmental samples will undergo chemical fractionation and high-resolution mass spectrometry to identify active fractions responsible for biological changes. By combining Effect-Directed Analysis (EDA) with water quality data from Natural Resources Wales, the project aims to pinpoint key chemical drivers and assess the ecological relevance of complex pollutant mixtures.

In parallel, laboratory experiments will expose the RTgill-W1 cell line to known neurotoxic pesticides (such as Diazinon, Fipronil, and Cypermethrin) both individually and in combination. These chemicals, frequently detected in Welsh rivers, pose significant risks to aquatic life. The project will assess additive, synergistic, or antagonistic interactions between these compounds, providing critical insights into mixture toxicity and informing future risk assessment frameworks.

Training:

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of environmental protection in freshwater ecosystems. The student will receive comprehensive training in fieldwork, cell culture, toxicology, bioinformatics, and stakeholder engagement. They will develop skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication, including presenting at conferences and publishing peer-reviewed papers. 

This interdisciplinary training will prepare them for impactful careers in environmental science and/or policy. While the core supervisors are experts in freshwater ecology, toxicology, cell culture and bioinformatics, they all engage in interdisciplinary research and therefore have wide professional networks that will support this studentship. Specifically, we will also work closely with biochemists, policy advisors and other experts at Natural Resources Wales.

Interdisciplinarity:

This project bridges ecotoxicology, molecular biology, and environmental chemistry, offering training in advanced cell culture techniques, omics technologies, and data integration. The outcomes will support policy development and regulatory innovation, contributing to more accurate and responsive water quality monitoring under frameworks like the Water Framework Directive.

Project Keywords: Interdisciplinary, Environmental, Water Quality, Biochemistry, Omics

Industrial Partner: Natural Resources Wales

Candidate Requirements:

Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, a First Class or good Upper Second-Class UK Honours degree (or the equivalent) in a relevant subject e.g. biology, environmental sciences, chemistry, biochemistry with a passion for applying molecular tools to real-world ecological challenges. Academic qualifications are considered alongside significant relevant non-academic experience. A master’s level qualification would also be advantageous.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion:

We value a diverse research environment and aim to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated and respected. We welcome and encourage applications from under-represented groups.

If you have circumstances that you feel we should be aware of that have affected your educational attainment, then please feel free to tell us about it in your application form. The best way to do this is a short paragraph at the end of your personal statement.

Enquiries and Applications:

Formal applications should be submitted via the Red-ALERT CDT online application form prior to the closing date of this advert.