Fate of contaminants of emerging concern in urban wastewater systems

Summary

This project focuses on understanding the fate of contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) within integrated urban water and wastewater systems. This encompasses studying the transport, transformation, and removal of substances like pharmaceutical and personal care products (PPCPs), pesticides, PFAS, and industry chemicals across sewer systems, wastewater treatment plants, and receiving environments. Research in this area is crucial for understanding the environmental impact of these contaminants and improving treatment technologies. This work requires both in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in sewer engineering, wastewater biological treatment, and advanced treatment technologies.

Research Area Keywords

Emerging Contaminants; Wastewater Treatment; Environmental Protection

Supervisor

Dr Jiaying Li.

Research location

Civil Engineering

Synopsis

This project covers several topics and areas:

Source Tracking and Management: Developing methods for source identification and control of contaminants in sewage systems, including from industry and domestic inputs.

Emerging Contaminant Removal: Developing approaches and techniques to separate, remove, and destroy contaminants of emerging concerns from wastewater, recycling water, drinking water, and biosolids.

Biosensors in Wastewater: Innovating biosensor technology for in-situ monitoring of contaminants and pathogens in wastewater environments.

Offering:

A scholarship for 3.5 years at the RTP stipend rate (currently $41,753 in 2025). International applicants will have their tuition fees covered.

Successful candidates must:

Have a Bachelors degree (1st class honours or equivalent) or a Masters degree
Have research experience in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Control Science and Engineering, Automation, Biotechnology, and relevant disciplines

How to apply:

To apply, please email jiaying.li@sydney.edu.au the following:

CV
transcripts

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Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 3546